Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
SummerFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 216 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Ferruginous Hawk, Canada Goose, and Cinnamon Teal 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

Yellow-headed Blackbird

Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus

3/4/2026Russell Lakes SWA1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Ferruginous Hawk

23/4/2026

Canada Goose

583/4/2026

Cinnamon Teal

63/4/2026

Northern Shoveler

13/4/2026

Gadwall

453/4/2026

American Wigeon

593/4/2026

Mallard

2203/4/2026

Northern Pintail

223/4/2026

Green-winged Teal

323/4/2026

Redhead

553/4/2026

Ring-necked Duck

43/4/2026

Lesser Scaup

23/4/2026

Bufflehead

43/4/2026

Common Merganser

143/4/2026

Ruddy Duck

63/4/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

23/4/2026

American Coot

233/4/2026

Northern Harrier

23/4/2026

Bald Eagle

23/4/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

13/4/2026

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 Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area for birding?
The best months to visit Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area?
Notable species at Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area include Ferruginous Hawk, Canada Goose, Cinnamon Teal, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area?
Birding at Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area?
Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.