The Birding Hub
The Birding Hub

Kisatchie National Forest - Cotile Recreation Area

Louisiana · Southeast

ModerateView on eBird
Habitat
Forest
Best Seasons
SpringFallWinter
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Kisatchie National Forest - Cotile Recreation Area is a productive birding destination in Louisiana, with 222 species recorded on eBird. This forest habitat attracts a wide variety of species among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

Location

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Notable Species

Red-eyed VireoScarlet TanagerPileated WoodpeckerWood ThrushOvenbird

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

White-tailed Kite

Elanus leucurus

2/22/2026Sand Hill Rd, Hineston US-LA 31.09053, -92.863441 observed

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  3. 3

    Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

Amenities

Parking
Trails

More in Louisiana

Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge

Gulf Coast prairie and marsh refuge with massive waterfowl concentrations and wading birds.

Alexandria - The Lakes District

Forest birding hotspot in Louisiana with 202 recorded species.

Audubon Park

Urban Park birding hotspot in Louisiana with 228 recorded species.

Birding Guides

The Ultimate Guide to Fall Bird Migration: Hawks, Sparrows, and Confusing Plumages

10 min read

Understanding Bird Migration: When, Where, and Why Birds Migrate

12 min read

Spring Birding in New York City: The Complete Urban Migration Guide

12 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Kisatchie National Forest - Cotile Recreation Area for birding?▼
The best months to visit Kisatchie National Forest - Cotile Recreation Area for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Kisatchie National Forest - Cotile Recreation Area?▼
Notable species at Kisatchie National Forest - Cotile Recreation Area include Red-eyed Vireo, Scarlet Tanager, Pileated Woodpecker, Wood Thrush, Ovenbird. The area supports forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Kisatchie National Forest - Cotile Recreation Area?▼
Birding at Kisatchie National Forest - Cotile Recreation Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Kisatchie National Forest - Cotile Recreation Area?▼
Kisatchie National Forest - Cotile Recreation Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.