Wetland birding habitat

Ouray National Wildlife Refuge

Utah · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Ouray National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Utah, with 229 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species among many others. Elevation changes create diverse habitats, from riparian valleys to alpine meadows, supporting a wide range of species.

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

Gray Vireo

Vireo vicinior

7/12/202684078, Vernal US-UT 40.39287, -109.570261 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Gadwall

17/8/2026

Mourning Dove

127/8/2026

Great Blue Heron

17/8/2026

American Kestrel

47/8/2026

Willow Flycatcher

17/8/2026

Western Kingbird

87/8/2026

Common Raven

17/8/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

27/8/2026

Northern House Wren

17/8/2026

Mountain Bluebird

17/8/2026

American Robin

27/8/2026

Cedar Waxwing

17/8/2026

American Goldfinch

27/8/2026

Spotted Towhee

27/8/2026

Yellow-breasted Chat

17/8/2026

Western Meadowlark

47/8/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

67/8/2026

Brewer's Blackbird

87/8/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

57/8/2026

Black-headed Grosbeak

17/8/2026

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

    Acclimate to altitude before hiking to high-elevation birding spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Ouray National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Ouray National Wildlife Refuge for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Ouray National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Ouray National Wildlife Refuge include Great Blue Heron, Red-winged Blackbird, Mallard, Green Heron, Virginia Rail. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Ouray National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Ouray National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Ouray National Wildlife Refuge?
Ouray National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.