Helena Valley Regulating Reservoir

Montana · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
SummerFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Helena Valley Regulating Reservoir is a productive birding destination in Montana, with 235 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, American Wigeon, and Mallard 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

Ring-necked Pheasant

Phasianus colchicus

3/5/2026Lake Helena WMA2 observed

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Setophaga coronata

3/4/2026Lewis and Clark County Fairgrounds2 observed

Spotted Towhee

Pipilo maculatus

2/28/2026Riverside Campground1 observed

Greater White-fronted Goose

Anser albifrons

2/26/2026Lewis and Clark County Fairgrounds1 observed

Eared Grebe

Podiceps nigricollis

2/24/2026Shannon boat launch1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Killdeer

33/6/2026

California Gull

183/6/2026

Canada Goose

5523/4/2026

American Wigeon

53/4/2026

Mallard

3203/4/2026

Northern Pintail

1203/4/2026

Green-winged Teal

23/4/2026

Ring-necked Duck

43/4/2026

Bufflehead

43/4/2026

Common Goldeneye

43/4/2026

Common Merganser

1203/4/2026

Rock Pigeon

23/4/2026

Ring-billed Gull

253/4/2026

Bald Eagle

13/4/2026

Northern Flicker

43/4/2026

Common Raven

23/4/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

63/4/2026

Horned Lark

13/4/2026

European Starling

23/4/2026

American Robin

13/4/2026

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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