Birding in Estes Park

BIRDING
Birders will find easy access to habitat that supports large numbers of native and migratory bird species. The Estes Valley and Rocky Mountain National Park offer an unsurpassed opportunity to view over 317 species of birds ranging from wetland waterfowl in the 4.5 acre bird sanctuary on the west side of Lake Estes to magnificent raptors soaring over Lumpy Ridge to the cleverly camouflaged ptarmigan found above timberline in the alpine tundra areas of the National Park.
In the spring and summer months, migratory birds such as thrushes, finches, swallows, warblers, bluebirds, and hummingbirds are seen throughout the valley. Even sandpipers and gulls are seen around Lake Estes. Hummingbirds are particularly numerous, including the roufous and broad-tailed varieties.
As an added bonus, bald eagles have been seen on the north side of Lake Estes as they establish their nests.
Additional summer birding opportunities include excursions in Rocky Mountain National Park with park naturalists leading bird walks. Bird identification and banding classes are conducted at the YMCA of the Rockies, and the Rocky Mountain Nature Association conducts birding seminars.
The fall and winter months bring bitter weather to the higher altitudes of the Park, but migratory waterfowl are easily found around Lake Estes and at lower elevations in the Park. Species include mallards, teal, coot, mergansers, redheads, widgeon, swans, gulls, Canadian geese, and the occasional pelican.
December also brings the annual Estes Park Christmas Bird count organized by the National Audubon Society. Anyone with basic bird identification skills is welcome to participate as a field counter or feeder watcher.
Whatever the season, you will find the Estes Valley and Rocky Mountain National Park a birder’s paradise, with more species that you are likely to see in a lifetime

Organize your birding vacation by finding the perfect location on Estes Lake with Estes Park Central.