Lake birding habitat

Harrison/Willow Creek Reservoir

Montana · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
LakeRiver/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Harrison/Willow Creek Reservoir is a productive birding destination in Montana, with 212 species recorded on eBird. This lake and river/riparian habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Coccyzus americanus

7/11/202611358-11352 Montana 2, Three Forks, Montana, US (45.869, -111.623)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

397/15/2026

Blue-winged Teal

17/15/2026

Mallard

27/15/2026

Mourning Dove

87/15/2026

Killdeer

107/15/2026

Long-billed Dowitcher

57/15/2026

Wilson's Phalarope

47/15/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

37/15/2026

Franklin's Gull

257/15/2026

Ring-billed Gull

37/15/2026

Western Grebe

47/15/2026

White-faced Ibis

17/15/2026

American White Pelican

47/15/2026

Northern Harrier

17/15/2026

Bald Eagle

17/15/2026

Swainson's Hawk

17/15/2026

American Kestrel

17/15/2026

Willow Flycatcher

17/15/2026

Western Kingbird

17/15/2026

Eastern Kingbird

57/15/2026

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 Harrison/Willow Creek Reservoir for birding?
The best months to visit Harrison/Willow Creek Reservoir for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Harrison/Willow Creek Reservoir?
Notable species at Harrison/Willow Creek Reservoir include Common Loon, Bald Eagle, Double-crested Cormorant, Ring-billed Gull, Bufflehead. The area supports lake, river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Harrison/Willow Creek Reservoir?
Birding at Harrison/Willow Creek Reservoir is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Harrison/Willow Creek Reservoir?
Harrison/Willow Creek Reservoir offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.