Lake birding habitat

Santa Rosa Lake State Park

New Mexico · Southwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Santa Rosa Lake State Park is a productive birding destination in New Mexico, with 241 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Cinnamon Teal, and Northern Shoveler 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

Painted Bunting

Passerina ciris

5/26/2026Tres Lagunas1 observed

Vermilion Flycatcher

Pyrocephalus rubinus

5/26/2026Spirit Haven Ranch2 observed

Lucy's Warbler

Leiothlypis luciae

5/26/2026Spirit Haven Ranch2 observed

Red-headed Woodpecker

Melanerpes erythrocephalus

5/26/2026Spirit Haven Ranch1 observed

Bell's Vireo

Vireo bellii

5/26/2026Spirit Haven Ranch1 observed

White-throated Swift

Aeronautes saxatalis

5/26/2026Spirit Haven Ranch1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Scaled Quail

25/30/2026

Turkey Vulture

15/30/2026

Cliff Swallow

45/30/2026

Black-chinned Hummingbird

25/30/2026

Ladder-backed Woodpecker

15/30/2026

Ash-throated Flycatcher

15/30/2026

Cassin's Kingbird

15/30/2026

Western Kingbird

25/30/2026

Juniper Titmouse

45/30/2026

Bushtit

205/30/2026

Bewick's Wren

25/30/2026

Curve-billed Thrasher

15/30/2026

Yellow-breasted Chat

15/30/2026

Common Grackle

45/30/2026

Blue Grosbeak

15/30/2026

Say's Phoebe

25/30/2026

Northern Mockingbird

25/30/2026

Lark Sparrow

15/30/2026

Canyon Towhee

15/30/2026

Common Poorwill

15/30/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Santa Rosa Lake State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Santa Rosa Lake State Park for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Santa Rosa Lake State Park?
Notable species at Santa Rosa Lake State Park include Canada Goose, Cinnamon Teal, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, American Wigeon. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Santa Rosa Lake State Park?
Birding at Santa Rosa Lake State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Santa Rosa Lake State Park?
Santa Rosa Lake State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.