Forest birding habitat

Gila National Forest - Quemado Lake

New Mexico · Southwest

Habitat
ForestLake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Gila National Forest - Quemado Lake is a productive birding destination in New Mexico, with 221 species recorded on eBird. This forest and lake habitat attracts Cinnamon Teal, Gadwall, and Green-winged Teal among many others. The unique desert and riparian habitats support specialty species alongside wintering and migrating birds.

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

Brown-headed Cowbird

Molothrus ater

4/12/2026QLE Yard1 observed

Common Goldeneye

Bucephala clangula

4/9/2026Gila NF--Quemado Lake3 observed

California Gull

Larus californicus

4/8/2026Gila NF--Quemado Lake1 observed

Franklin's Gull

Leucophaeus pipixcan

4/5/2026Gila NF--Quemado Lake2 observed

Cassin's Kingbird

Tyrannus vociferans

4/5/2026Gila NF--Quemado Lake1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

24/16/2026

Northern Shoveler

44/16/2026

Gadwall

164/16/2026

Ring-necked Duck

54/16/2026

Lesser Scaup

64/16/2026

Bufflehead

124/16/2026

Common Merganser

104/16/2026

Broad-tailed Hummingbird

14/16/2026

American Coot

64/16/2026

White-faced Ibis

234/16/2026

Great Blue Heron

24/16/2026

Turkey Vulture

44/16/2026

Osprey

24/16/2026

Bald Eagle

14/16/2026

Red-naped Sapsucker

14/16/2026

American Crow

14/16/2026

Common Raven

94/16/2026

Rock Wren

14/16/2026

Western Bluebird

14/16/2026

Blue-winged Teal

44/16/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  3. 3

    Carry extra water and sun protection; mornings are the prime birding window.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Gila National Forest - Quemado Lake for birding?
The best months to visit Gila National Forest - Quemado Lake for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Gila National Forest - Quemado Lake?
Notable species at Gila National Forest - Quemado Lake include Cinnamon Teal, Gadwall, Green-winged Teal, Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead. The area supports forest, lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Gila National Forest - Quemado Lake?
Birding at Gila National Forest - Quemado Lake is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Gila National Forest - Quemado Lake?
Gila National Forest - Quemado Lake offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.