Lake birding habitat

Lake Palo Duro

Texas · Southeast

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Lake Palo Duro is a productive birding destination in Texas, with 229 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Northern Shoveler, Mallard, and Green-winged Teal among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

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

Chestnut-collared Longspur

Calcarius ornatus

4/16/2026Texas County--49 Road2 observed

Eastern Meadowlark

Sturnella magna

4/11/2026Rd GG1 observed

Bufflehead

Bucephala albeola

4/11/2026Lake Palo Duro (PHP 051)5 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Blue-winged Teal

304/11/2026

Cinnamon Teal

24/11/2026

Northern Shoveler

54/11/2026

Gadwall

34/11/2026

American Wigeon

34/11/2026

Green-winged Teal

474/11/2026

Lesser Scaup

74/11/2026

Bufflehead

54/11/2026

Common Merganser

14/11/2026

Ruddy Duck

24/11/2026

Rock Pigeon

74/11/2026

Black-necked Stilt

14/11/2026

American Avocet

254/11/2026

Killdeer

14/11/2026

Long-billed Dowitcher

14/11/2026

Baird's Sandpiper

134/11/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

14/11/2026

Turkey Vulture

284/11/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

14/11/2026

Scissor-tailed Flycatcher

14/11/2026

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

    Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Lake Palo Duro for birding?
The best months to visit Lake Palo Duro for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Lake Palo Duro?
Notable species at Lake Palo Duro include Northern Shoveler, Mallard, Green-winged Teal, Common Merganser, Ruddy Duck. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Lake Palo Duro?
Birding at Lake Palo Duro is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Lake Palo Duro?
Lake Palo Duro offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.