McAllister Lake Wildlife Management Area

New Mexico · Southwest

Habitat
LakeWetland
Best Seasons
FallWinterSpring
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

McAllister Lake Wildlife Management Area is a productive birding destination in New Mexico, with 216 species recorded on eBird. This lake and wetland habitat attracts Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, and Mallard among many others. The unique desert and riparian habitats support specialty species alongside wintering and migrating birds.

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

Crissal Thrasher

Toxostoma crissale

2/28/2026Santa Fe NF - Anton Chico1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Northern Shoveler

62/22/2026

Gadwall

42/22/2026

Mallard

22/22/2026

Green-winged Teal

62/22/2026

Bufflehead

62/22/2026

Common Merganser

122/22/2026

American Coot

502/22/2026

Golden Eagle

12/22/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

22/22/2026

Northern Flicker

12/22/2026

Western Bluebird

32/22/2026

Pine Siskin

252/22/2026

American Goldfinch

42/22/2026

Canyon Towhee

22/22/2026

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

    Carry extra water and sun protection; mornings are the prime birding window.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit McAllister Lake Wildlife Management Area for birding?
The best months to visit McAllister Lake Wildlife Management Area for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at McAllister Lake Wildlife Management Area?
Notable species at McAllister Lake Wildlife Management Area include Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, Mallard, Green-winged Teal, Bufflehead. The area supports lake, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at McAllister Lake Wildlife Management Area?
Birding at McAllister Lake Wildlife Management Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at McAllister Lake Wildlife Management Area?
McAllister Lake Wildlife Management Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.