Arco Ponds

Montana · Rocky Mountains

ChallengingView on eBird
Habitat
MountainForest
Best Seasons
SummerFall
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Arco Ponds is a productive birding destination in Montana, with 239 species recorded on eBird. This mountain and forest habitat attracts Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, and Tundra Swan 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

Red-breasted Merganser

Mergus serrator

3/3/2026Arco Ponds1 observed

Western Meadowlark

Sturnella neglecta

2/28/2026160 Little Basin Creek Road, Butte, Montana, US (45.958, -112.552)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

3/5/2026

Trumpeter Swan

3/5/2026

Tundra Swan

3/5/2026

Gadwall

3/5/2026

American Wigeon

3/5/2026

Mallard

3/5/2026

Northern Pintail

3/5/2026

Green-winged Teal

63/5/2026

Canvasback

693/5/2026

Redhead

3/5/2026

Ring-necked Duck

3/5/2026

Lesser Scaup

3/5/2026

Bufflehead

3/5/2026

Common Goldeneye

3/5/2026

Barrow's Goldeneye

3/5/2026

Hooded Merganser

3/5/2026

Common Merganser

3/5/2026

Gray Partridge

23/5/2026

Rock Pigeon

13/5/2026

Ring-billed Gull

33/5/2026

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