Wetland birding habitat

Tamarack Ranch State Wildlife Area

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Tamarack Ranch State Wildlife Area is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 256 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species among many others. Elevation changes create diverse habitats, from riparian valleys to alpine meadows, supporting a wide range of species.

Location

Loading map...

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

Wilson's Phalarope

Phalaropus tricolor

4/11/2026Red Lion SWA7 observed

Western Cattle-Egret

Ardea ibis

4/11/2026Red Lion SWA2 observed

Least Sandpiper

Calidris minutilla

4/11/2026Red Lion SWA10 observed

Semipalmated Sandpiper

Calidris pusilla

4/11/2026Red Lion SWA1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wood Duck

64/12/2026

Mallard

24/12/2026

Northern Bobwhite

24/12/2026

Wild Turkey

44/12/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

14/12/2026

Rock Pigeon

124/12/2026

Belted Kingfisher

14/12/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

34/12/2026

Downy Woodpecker

14/12/2026

Northern Flicker

54/12/2026

American Kestrel

14/12/2026

Blue Jay

24/12/2026

American Robin

44/12/2026

Field Sparrow

24/12/2026

Western Meadowlark

24/12/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

74/12/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

34/12/2026

American Barn Owl

14/11/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

14/11/2026

Mourning Dove

104/11/2026

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 Tamarack Ranch State Wildlife Area for birding?
The best months to visit Tamarack Ranch State Wildlife Area for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Tamarack Ranch State Wildlife Area?
Notable species at Tamarack Ranch State Wildlife Area include Great Blue Heron, Red-winged Blackbird, Mallard, Green Heron, Virginia Rail. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Tamarack Ranch State Wildlife Area?
Birding at Tamarack Ranch State Wildlife Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Tamarack Ranch State Wildlife Area?
Tamarack Ranch State Wildlife Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.