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

Common Loon

Gavia immer

7/13/2026Caballo Lake SP1 observed

Tropical Kingbird

Tyrannus melancholicus

7/13/2026Caballo Lake SP--Riverside Recreation Area (below dam)2 observed

Anna's Hummingbird

Calypte anna

7/13/202613 State Yard Rd, Hillsboro US-NM 32.92059, -107.575461 observed

Lazuli Bunting

Passerina amoena

7/11/2026Hillsboro (town)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

507/13/2026

White-winged Dove

27/13/2026

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

17/13/2026

Black-chinned Hummingbird

17/13/2026

American Coot

287/13/2026

Black-necked Stilt

67/13/2026

American Avocet

127/13/2026

Killdeer

17/13/2026

Ring-billed Gull

27/13/2026

Clark's Grebe

57/13/2026

Common Loon

17/13/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

137/13/2026

Neotropic Cormorant

127/13/2026

White-faced Ibis

27/13/2026

Snowy Egret

77/13/2026

Western Cattle-Egret

27/13/2026

Great Egret

87/13/2026

Great Blue Heron

207/13/2026

American White Pelican

77/13/2026

Turkey Vulture

17/13/2026

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.