McPhee Reservoir - West End

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

McPhee Reservoir - West End is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 226 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Cinnamon Teal, and Gadwall 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

Tree Swallow

Tachycineta bicolor

3/4/2026Totten Reservoir3 observed

Pacific Wren

Troglodytes pacificus

3/3/2026Upper Yellowjacket1 observed

Peregrine Falcon

Falco peregrinus

2/28/2026Little Bauer Reservoir1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

173/2/2026

Cinnamon Teal

33/2/2026

Gadwall

133/2/2026

American Wigeon

1053/2/2026

Mallard

343/2/2026

Green-winged Teal

463/2/2026

Redhead

163/2/2026

Common Merganser

33/2/2026

Red-breasted Merganser

23/2/2026

Killdeer

43/2/2026

Ring-billed Gull

93/2/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

13/2/2026

Common Raven

43/2/2026

Horned Lark

153/2/2026

Bald Eagle

72/28/2026

Northern Flicker

12/28/2026

Mountain Bluebird

92/28/2026

House Finch

12/28/2026

Song Sparrow

12/28/2026

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit McPhee Reservoir - West End for birding?
The best months to visit McPhee Reservoir - West End for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at McPhee Reservoir - West End?
Notable species at McPhee Reservoir - West End include Canada Goose, Cinnamon Teal, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Mallard. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at McPhee Reservoir - West End?
Birding at McPhee Reservoir - West End is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at McPhee Reservoir - West End?
McPhee Reservoir - West End offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.