(Colorado Springs, CO) Every year as winter fades and spring arrives, birds travel thousands of miles from their wintering grounds to their breeding and feeding grounds. This spectacular annual journey is known as spring migration, and as birds travel, people often see unique and rare species uncommon to the area.
The Pikes Peak region is a bird lover's paradise, especially during spring migration and nesting season.
Fountain Creek Regional Park
One of Colorado's best bird-watching spots is just south of Colorado Springs at Fountain Creek Regional Park. The varied park habitat, including woodland, marsh, meadow, and pond areas, attracts a wide range of birds, and over 260 species have been identified here.
Location: 2010 Duckwood Road, Fountain, Colorado
Fountain Creek Nature Center
Fountain Creek Nature Center, located in the northern part of Fountain Creek Regional Park, has an indoor bird viewing area with binoculars for adults and children.
The center has recorded bird sounds visitors can enjoy while watching for feathered friends. Some audio options are the American Robin, Killdeer, Northern Flicker, Song Sparrow, and House Wren.
The nature center is free and an ideal spot for all ages to learn more about birds.
Location: 320 Peppergrass Lane, Fountain, Colorado
Cheyenne Mountain State Park
Cheyenne Mountain State Park is another wonderful place for bird-watching. The park has numerous short, easy hikes suitable for families with young children, including Acorn Alley Trail (.53 miles) and Bobcat Way Trail (.40 miles).
For those interested in a slightly longer hike, there are several trails between one and two miles long with slight elevation gains and plenty of natural attractions. Some trails connect so guests can create a hike that best suits their needs.
Bird watchers can take a self-guided tour by printing this list of birds common to the area. The checklist identifies which birds are more likely to be seen in summer, winter, during migration (spring/fall), or year-round. Don't forget the binoculars!
Visitors will find park information, trail maps, and park passes (daily vehicle pass is $10) at the Cheyenne Mountain State Park Visitor Center. It is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. from May through September.
Location: 410 J.L. Ranch Heights Road, Colorado Springs, CO
Where is your favorite place to birdwatch?
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