Lake birding habitat

Kicking Horse Reservoir

Montana · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Kicking Horse Reservoir is a productive birding destination in Montana, with 209 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, and Trumpeter 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

Baltimore Oriole

Icterus galbula

6/2/2026Pablo Reservoir (north side), MT., USA1 observed

Snow Goose

Anser caerulescens

5/29/2026Ninepipe NWR1 observed

Common Grackle

Quiscalus quiscula

5/29/2026405 Tenth Ave W, Polson US-MT (47.6862,-114.1705)1 observed

Sharp-tailed Grouse

Tympanuchus phasianellus

5/27/2026Ninepipe NWR1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

105/27/2026

Trumpeter Swan

45/27/2026

Cinnamon Teal

15/27/2026

Northern Shoveler

25/27/2026

Gadwall

35/27/2026

Mallard

25/27/2026

Redhead

25/27/2026

Lesser Scaup

105/27/2026

Bufflehead

15/27/2026

Ruddy Duck

35/27/2026

American Coot

505/27/2026

Black-necked Stilt

15/27/2026

Killdeer

25/27/2026

Caspian Tern

15/27/2026

Forster's Tern

75/27/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

45/27/2026

Great Blue Heron

15/27/2026

American White Pelican

15/27/2026

Osprey

15/27/2026

Northern Harrier

15/27/2026

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 Kicking Horse Reservoir for birding?
The best months to visit Kicking Horse Reservoir for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Kicking Horse Reservoir?
Notable species at Kicking Horse Reservoir include Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Tundra Swan, American Wigeon. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Kicking Horse Reservoir?
Birding at Kicking Horse Reservoir is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Kicking Horse Reservoir?
Kicking Horse Reservoir offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.