As the days get longer, birdwatchers begin mapping out their Spring plans to coincide with the many migrations that pass through Colorado. One of the most exciting is the Sandhill Crane migration culminating with the Monte Vista Crane Festival in March – see more here – Crane Fest. Eighteen to twenty thousand birds refuel for several weeks in the beautiful San Juan area before continuing their northward journey.
Another popular celebration is the Snow Goose Festival in Lamar – more info here – Goose Fest. Very reasonable prices for guided bus tours and speaker events are available if you act fast.
The Mountain Plover arrives in March, while the Swainson’s Hawk and many songbirds including Warblers, Vireos, Flycatchers and Buntings arrive mid April to mid May. Colorado’s Eastern Plains are the best places to see these many bird species, especially at the Pawnee and Comanche National Grasslands.
The Ute Mountain Mesa Verde Birding Festival held in May provides the opportunity to see 180 different species of birds, some seen nowhere else in Colorado. With the many archaeological sites to visit, this is a great place for visitors to plan a vacation. See more here – UMMV BirdFest.
June signals the arrival of the Rufous hummingbird, a territorial and domineering species who will chase other birds away from feeders.
See the Colorado Birding Trail guide for more information about the joys of birding in Colorado – Colorado Birding, then get your binoculars, and see you on the trails!
