Lake birding habitat

South Republican State Wildlife Area (former Bonny Reservoir)

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
LakeWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

South Republican State Wildlife Area (former Bonny Reservoir) is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 308 species recorded on eBird. This lake and wetland habitat attracts Wild Turkey, Eurasian Collared-Dove, and Red-tailed Hawk 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

Ash-throated Flycatcher

Myiarchus cinerascens

5/28/2026South Republican SWA--Wagon Wheel Campground area1 observed

Mourning Warbler

Geothlypis philadelphia

5/22/2026South Republican SWA--Hale Ponds1 observed

Veery

Catharus fuscescens

5/22/2026South Republican SWA--Hale Crossroads1 observed

Glossy x White-faced Ibis (hybrid)

Plegadis falcinellus x chihi

5/20/2026CR LL5 Bridge1 observed

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Archilochus colubris

5/20/2026South Republican SWA--Hale Ponds1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Ring-necked Pheasant

16/1/2026

Mourning Dove

56/1/2026

Chimney Swift

46/1/2026

Great Blue Heron

26/1/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

46/1/2026

Western Wood-Pewee

16/1/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

16/1/2026

Western Kingbird

16/1/2026

Eastern Kingbird

36/1/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

36/1/2026

Blue Jay

16/1/2026

Cliff Swallow

16/1/2026

Northern House Wren

56/1/2026

Western Meadowlark

16/1/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

26/1/2026

Common Grackle

16/1/2026

Cooper's Hawk

15/28/2026

Northern Flicker

15/28/2026

Olive-sided Flycatcher

15/28/2026

Say's Phoebe

15/28/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit South Republican State Wildlife Area (former Bonny Reservoir) for birding?
The best months to visit South Republican State Wildlife Area (former Bonny Reservoir) for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at South Republican State Wildlife Area (former Bonny Reservoir)?
Notable species at South Republican State Wildlife Area (former Bonny Reservoir) include Wild Turkey, Eurasian Collared-Dove, Red-tailed Hawk, Great Horned Owl, Downy Woodpecker. The area supports lake, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at South Republican State Wildlife Area (former Bonny Reservoir)?
Birding at South Republican State Wildlife Area (former Bonny Reservoir) is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at South Republican State Wildlife Area (former Bonny Reservoir)?
South Republican State Wildlife Area (former Bonny Reservoir) offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.