Mountain birding habitat

Arco Ponds

Montana · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
MountainForest
Best Seasons
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

Least Tern

Sternula antillarum

6/18/202659711, Anaconda US-MT (46.1640,-112.7846)1 observed

Bonaparte's Gull

Chroicocephalus philadelphia

6/18/2026Arco Ponds4 observed

Greater Scaup

Aythya marila

6/17/2026Arco Ponds2 observed

Red-breasted Merganser

Mergus serrator

6/11/2026Arco Ponds4 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

2006/19/2026

Blue-winged Teal

206/19/2026

Cinnamon Teal

106/19/2026

Gadwall

2006/19/2026

American Wigeon

16/19/2026

Mallard

16/19/2026

Canvasback

26/19/2026

Redhead

16/19/2026

Ring-necked Duck

106/19/2026

Lesser Scaup

606/19/2026

Bufflehead

66/19/2026

Ruddy Duck

1006/19/2026

Sora

16/19/2026

American Coot

1006/19/2026

Black-necked Stilt

46/19/2026

American Avocet

16/19/2026

Killdeer

26/19/2026

Ring-billed Gull

1006/19/2026

Red-necked Grebe

26/19/2026

Eared Grebe

3006/19/2026

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.