Mountain birding habitat

Sandstone Ranch

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
MountainForest
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Sandstone Ranch is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 203 species recorded on eBird. This mountain and forest habitat attracts Say's Phoebe, Canada Goose, and Gadwall 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

Eastern Phoebe

Sayornis phoebe

5/31/2026Little Thompson1 observed

Eastern Warbling Vireo

Vireo gilvus

5/31/2026Pella Crossing Open Space3 observed

Long-billed Dowitcher

Limnodromus scolopaceus

5/31/2026Walden Ponds Wildlife Habitat--Walden & Sawhill Ponds all together1 observed

Canvasback

Aythya valisineria

5/31/2026Lagerman Agricultural Preserve--Lagerman Reservoir2 observed

Blackburnian Warbler

Setophaga fusca

5/31/2026Golden Ponds Park and Nature Area1 observed

Common Goldeneye

Bucephala clangula

5/31/2026Pella Crossing Open Space1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

15/31/2026

Mallard

25/31/2026

Wild Turkey

15/31/2026

Mourning Dove

15/31/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

15/31/2026

Great Blue Heron

55/31/2026

American White Pelican

15/31/2026

Osprey

25/31/2026

Bald Eagle

15/31/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

15/31/2026

Belted Kingfisher

15/31/2026

Northern Flicker

25/31/2026

Western Flycatcher

15/31/2026

Say's Phoebe

25/31/2026

Western Kingbird

15/31/2026

Eastern Kingbird

25/31/2026

Blue Jay

15/31/2026

Tree Swallow

35/31/2026

Barn Swallow

55/31/2026

Cliff Swallow

305/31/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring layers as mountain weather changes rapidly at elevation.

  2. 2

    Check exposed ridges and thermals for soaring raptors and swifts.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Sandstone Ranch for birding?
The best months to visit Sandstone Ranch for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Sandstone Ranch?
Notable species at Sandstone Ranch include Say's Phoebe, Canada Goose, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Mallard. The area supports mountain, forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Sandstone Ranch?
Birding at Sandstone Ranch is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Sandstone Ranch?
Sandstone Ranch offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.