Desert birding habitat

Holloman Lakes (Closed indefinitely)

New Mexico · Southwest

Habitat
DesertChaparral
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Holloman Lakes (Closed indefinitely) is a productive birding destination in New Mexico, with 266 species recorded on eBird. This desert and chaparral habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Bell's Vireo

Vireo bellii

4/15/2026Balloon Fiesta Park Flood Retention Area1 observed

Golden-crowned Sparrow

Zonotrichia atricapilla

4/14/2026Oliver Lee Memorial SP--Riparian Nature Trail1 observed

Hooded Oriole

Icterus cucullatus

4/14/2026Oliver Lee Memorial SP--Riparian Nature Trail1 observed

Painted Redstart

Myioborus pictus

4/13/2026Oliver Lee Memorial SP--Riparian Nature Trail1 observed

Gray Vireo

Vireo vicinior

4/12/2026White Sands NP--Dune Life Nature Trail1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Brewer's Sparrow

44/15/2026

Black-throated Sparrow

14/15/2026

Barn Swallow

14/15/2026

House Sparrow

24/15/2026

House Finch

24/15/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

64/15/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

14/15/2026

Mourning Dove

24/15/2026

Northern Mockingbird

14/15/2026

Black Phoebe

14/12/2026

Ash-throated Flycatcher

34/12/2026

Canyon Wren

14/12/2026

Black-chinned Sparrow

14/11/2026

Swainson's Hawk

14/8/2026

Western Kingbird

14/8/2026

Ladder-backed Woodpecker

14/7/2026

Say's Phoebe

24/5/2026

Horned Lark

14/5/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Start birding at dawn when desert birds are most active before the heat.

  2. 2

    Check around water sources, which concentrate desert species.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Holloman Lakes (Closed indefinitely) for birding?
The best months to visit Holloman Lakes (Closed indefinitely) for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Holloman Lakes (Closed indefinitely)?
Notable species at Holloman Lakes (Closed indefinitely) include Cactus Wren, Greater Roadrunner, Gambel's Quail, Curve-billed Thrasher, Phainopepla. The area supports desert, chaparral habitats.
How difficult is birding at Holloman Lakes (Closed indefinitely)?
Birding at Holloman Lakes (Closed indefinitely) is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Holloman Lakes (Closed indefinitely)?
Holloman Lakes (Closed indefinitely) offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.