Mountain birding habitat

Giant Springs State Park

Montana · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
MountainForest
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Giant Springs State Park is a productive birding destination in Montana, with 253 species recorded on eBird. This mountain and forest habitat attracts Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, and Lesser Scaup 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

Barn Swallow

Hirundo rustica

4/14/2026Giant Springs SP1 observed

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

4/8/2026Benton Lake, Great Falls US-MT 47.69420, -111.346932 observed

White-faced Ibis

Plegadis chihi

4/4/2026Benton Lake NWR13 observed

Black-necked Stilt

Himantopus mexicanus

4/4/2026Benton Lake NWR4 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

534/14/2026

Northern Shoveler

134/14/2026

Gadwall

24/14/2026

Mallard

174/14/2026

Lesser Scaup

64/14/2026

Bufflehead

104/14/2026

Common Goldeneye

144/14/2026

Common Merganser

34/14/2026

Ruddy Duck

24/14/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

24/14/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

54/14/2026

American Coot

14/14/2026

Sandhill Crane

34/14/2026

Killdeer

24/14/2026

Ring-billed Gull

64/14/2026

California Gull

5004/14/2026

Common Loon

34/14/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

74/14/2026

American White Pelican

44/14/2026

Turkey Vulture

24/14/2026

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 Giant Springs State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Giant Springs State Park for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Giant Springs State Park?
Notable species at Giant Springs State Park include Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye. The area supports mountain, forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Giant Springs State Park?
Birding at Giant Springs State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Giant Springs State Park?
Giant Springs State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.