Wetland birding habitat

Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 216 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Ferruginous Hawk, Canada Goose, and Cinnamon Teal among many others. Elevation changes create diverse habitats, from riparian valleys to alpine meadows, supporting a wide range of species.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Pheucticus ludovicianus

4/10/2026My Yard1 observed

Lesser Goldfinch

Spinus psaltria

4/5/2026My Yard4 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

4/15/2026

Blue-winged Teal

4/15/2026

Cinnamon Teal

4/15/2026

Northern Shoveler

4/15/2026

Gadwall

4/15/2026

American Wigeon

4/15/2026

Mallard

4/15/2026

Northern Pintail

4/15/2026

Green-winged Teal

4/15/2026

Canvasback

4/15/2026

Redhead

4/15/2026

Ring-necked Duck

4/15/2026

Lesser Scaup

4/15/2026

Bufflehead

4/15/2026

Ruddy Duck

4/15/2026

American Coot

4/15/2026

Black-necked Stilt

4/15/2026

American Avocet

4/15/2026

Killdeer

4/15/2026

Wilson's Phalarope

4/15/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  3. 3

    Acclimate to altitude before hiking to high-elevation birding spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area for birding?
The best months to visit Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area?
Notable species at Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area include Ferruginous Hawk, Canada Goose, Cinnamon Teal, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area?
Birding at Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area?
Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.