River/Riparian birding habitat

Las Animas Creek

New Mexico · Southwest

Habitat
River/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Las Animas Creek is a productive birding destination in New Mexico, with 223 species recorded on eBird. This river/riparian habitat attracts Gambel's Quail, White-winged Dove, and Red-tailed Hawk 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

Tropical Kingbird

Tyrannus melancholicus

5/30/2026Caballo Lake SP--Riverside Recreation Area (below dam)1 observed

Broad-billed Hummingbird

Cynanthus latirostris

5/22/2026JK Hill-Hillsboro US-NM (32.9207,-107.5756)1 observed

Tennessee Warbler

Leiothlypis peregrina

5/20/2026Elephant Butte Lake SP--Paseo del Rio1 observed

Painted Bunting

Passerina ciris

5/19/2026Percha Dam SP1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Western Grebe

35/29/2026

Clark's Grebe

75/29/2026

Great Egret

15/29/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

15/29/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

15/29/2026

Lucy's Warbler

15/29/2026

Summer Tanager

15/29/2026

American White Pelican

205/25/2026

Black-necked Stilt

135/22/2026

Killdeer

15/22/2026

Turkey Vulture

15/19/2026

Cave Swallow

65/18/2026

Black-throated Sparrow

15/18/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Walk along the water slowly, scanning overhanging branches for kingfishers and warblers.

  2. 2

    Check sandbars and gravel bars for shorebirds and terns.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Las Animas Creek for birding?
The best months to visit Las Animas Creek for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Las Animas Creek?
Notable species at Las Animas Creek include Gambel's Quail, White-winged Dove, Red-tailed Hawk, Acorn Woodpecker, Ladder-backed Woodpecker. The area supports river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Las Animas Creek?
Birding at Las Animas Creek is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Las Animas Creek?
Las Animas Creek offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.