Wetland birding habitat

Las Palomas Marsh

New Mexico · Southwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Las Palomas Marsh is a productive birding destination in New Mexico, with 223 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts White-winged Dove, Mourning Dove, and American White Pelican 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

Lesser Black-backed Gull

Larus fuscus

5/26/2026Elephant Butte Lake SP--Three Sisters Point1 observed

Least Tern

Sternula antillarum

5/26/2026Elephant Butte Lake SP--Three Sisters Point1 observed

Tennessee Warbler

Leiothlypis peregrina

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

White-rumped Sandpiper

Calidris fuscicollis

5/19/2026Elephant Butte Lake SP--Three Sisters Point1 observed

Painted Bunting

Passerina ciris

5/19/2026Percha Dam SP1 observed

Common Tern

Sterna hirundo

5/18/2026Elephant Butte SP - Long Point2 observed

Tropical Kingbird

Tyrannus melancholicus

5/15/2026Caballo Lake SP--Riverside Recreation Area (below dam)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

White-winged Dove

65/26/2026

Black-chinned Hummingbird

15/26/2026

Great Blue Heron

15/26/2026

Turkey Vulture

15/26/2026

Ladder-backed Woodpecker

25/26/2026

Western Wood-Pewee

45/26/2026

Say's Phoebe

15/26/2026

Vermilion Flycatcher

15/26/2026

Ash-throated Flycatcher

15/26/2026

Brown-crested Flycatcher

15/26/2026

Common Raven

25/26/2026

Verdin

25/26/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

45/26/2026

Barn Swallow

45/26/2026

Bewick's Wren

45/26/2026

Northern Mockingbird

15/26/2026

House Finch

25/26/2026

Lesser Goldfinch

25/26/2026

Spotted Towhee

25/26/2026

Yellow-breasted Chat

25/26/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  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 Palomas Marsh for birding?
The best months to visit Las Palomas Marsh for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Las Palomas Marsh?
Notable species at Las Palomas Marsh include White-winged Dove, Mourning Dove, American White Pelican, Red-naped Sapsucker, Ladder-backed Woodpecker. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Las Palomas Marsh?
Birding at Las Palomas Marsh is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Las Palomas Marsh?
Las Palomas Marsh offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.