Cochrane Lake

Alberta · Canada

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
SpringSummerFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

May-October

About This Location

Cochrane Lake is a productive birding destination in Alberta, with 203 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Bald Eagle, Northern Flicker, and Black-billed Magpie among many others. Boreal and temperate forests host breeding warblers, sparrows, and waterfowl during the productive summer months.

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

Spotted Towhee

Pipilo maculatus

3/4/2026PFW-c56108-T3Z1A21 observed

American Goldfinch

Spinus tristis

2/28/2026PFW-c56108-T3Z1A21 observed

Red-tailed Hawk

Buteo jamaicensis

2/20/2026Grand Valley Road (between Bow Valley Trail & Township Rd 272)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Bald Eagle

13/4/2026

Northern Flicker

13/4/2026

Black-billed Magpie

43/4/2026

Common Raven

13/4/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

83/4/2026

Red-breasted Nuthatch

13/4/2026

House Sparrow

43/4/2026

House Finch

123/4/2026

Redpoll

23/4/2026

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

    Peak breeding season runs from late May through June for most songbirds.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Cochrane Lake for birding?
The best months to visit Cochrane Lake for birding are May-October. The best seasons are Spring and Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Cochrane Lake?
Notable species at Cochrane Lake include Bald Eagle, Northern Flicker, Black-billed Magpie, Common Raven, Black-capped Chickadee. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Cochrane Lake?
Birding at Cochrane Lake is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Cochrane Lake?
Cochrane Lake offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.