Lake birding habitat

Union Reservoir

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Union Reservoir is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 281 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts American White Pelican, Canada Goose, and Mallard 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

135/31/2026

Cinnamon Teal

25/31/2026

Gadwall

25/31/2026

Mallard

245/31/2026

Rock Pigeon

125/31/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

15/31/2026

Mourning Dove

115/31/2026

American Avocet

75/31/2026

Killdeer

165/31/2026

Long-billed Dowitcher

15/31/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

15/31/2026

Baird's Sandpiper

15/31/2026

Ring-billed Gull

175/31/2026

Eared Grebe

25/31/2026

Western Grebe

435/31/2026

Clark's Grebe

35/31/2026

American White Pelican

325/31/2026

Osprey

25/31/2026

Northern Harrier

15/31/2026

Bald Eagle

25/31/2026

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 Union Reservoir for birding?
The best months to visit Union Reservoir for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Union Reservoir?
Notable species at Union Reservoir include American White Pelican, Canada Goose, Mallard, Killdeer, Bald Eagle. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Union Reservoir?
Birding at Union Reservoir is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Union Reservoir?
Union Reservoir offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.