Lake birding habitat

Zink's Pond

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Zink's Pond is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 200 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Ross's Goose, 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

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

Least Flycatcher

Empidonax minimus

5/31/2026Oxbow Park and Preserve1 observed

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Pheucticus ludovicianus

5/30/2026Animas River Yard1 observed

Eastern Phoebe

Sayornis phoebe

5/30/2026SJMA Nature Center (access limited to community days or by reservation)1 observed

American Herring Gull

Larus smithsonianus

5/24/2026Lake Nighthorse1 observed

Kentucky Warbler

Geothlypis formosa

5/21/2026Oxbow Park and Preserve1 observed

Red-eyed Vireo

Vireo olivaceus

5/19/2026Rank Park1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

505/30/2026

Blue-winged Teal

15/30/2026

Cinnamon Teal

25/30/2026

Gadwall

25/30/2026

Mallard

215/30/2026

Green-winged Teal

25/30/2026

Ring-necked Duck

15/30/2026

Virginia Rail

15/30/2026

American Coot

25/30/2026

Killdeer

35/30/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

35/30/2026

Great Blue Heron

15/30/2026

Turkey Vulture

15/30/2026

Osprey

15/30/2026

Western Wood-Pewee

15/30/2026

Ash-throated Flycatcher

15/30/2026

Tree Swallow

125/30/2026

Barn Swallow

15/30/2026

American Robin

15/30/2026

Western Meadowlark

15/30/2026

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 Zink's Pond for birding?
The best months to visit Zink's Pond for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Zink's Pond?
Notable species at Zink's Pond include Ross's Goose, Canada Goose, Gadwall, Mallard, Green-winged Teal. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Zink's Pond?
Birding at Zink's Pond is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Zink's Pond?
Zink's Pond offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.