Aiken Audubon Society

Aiken Canyon with Tyler Stewart and Michael Rogers
2023-06-03 06:30 - 09:30 (America/Denver) | Aiken Canyon, 3350 Turkey Canon Ranch Rd, Colorado Springs, CO, 80926
Join Aiken, Tyler Stewart and Michael Rogers on June 3rd at 630a for an approximately 3 hour walk. Meet in the parking lot, map below. We will lead two separate groups through Aiken Canyon.

Named after ornithologist, Dr. Charles Aiken, this is a great destination for birders. Over 100 species have been seen here. Located 16 miles south of Colorado Springs, these 1,621-acres are where Aiken raised his herd of sheep. Aiken Canyon is one of the last high-quality examples of the southern Front Range foothills ecosystem. The preserve is composed of a mosaic of habitat types, including shrub lands, tall grass prairie meadows, pinyon juniper woodlands and mixed coniferous woodlands. Make sure you bring sturdy boots for hiking and plenty of water.

Appropriate for all levels of birders.
Physical difficulty: Moderate/difficult.
Meet at Aiken Canyon (map) at 6:30 am.
Limited to 10 participants.

Sondermann Park with Lark BenDaniel
2023-06-10 07:00 - 09:00 | Sondermann Park, 740 W Carmamillo St, Colorado Springs, CO, 80907, United States
Join Aiken and Lark BenDaniel at Sondermann Park on June 10, 2023 @7a.
Sondermann Park on the west side of Colorado Springs is a 97-acre natural park tucked into a shallow valley.
The park is located at 740 W. Caramillo St., Colorado Springs, CO 80907
The park offers seven easy hiking trails, Mesa Valley Trail, a creek tumbling through a valley, good birdwatching, and plenty of wildlife.

Appropriate for all levels of birders.
Physical difficulty: Easy.
Meet at Catamount Institute @ 740 W. Caramillo St.
Limited to 10 participants.
No bathrooms are located at the facility.
You will be asked to sign a waiver prior to the walk.

Birds & Brew - Bear Creek Nature Center & OCC Brewing
2023-06-25 08:00 - 13:00 | Bear Creek Nature Center, 245 Bear Creek Rd, Colorado Springs, CO, 80906
Sunday, June 25
Bear Creek Nature Center (8am) followed by OCC Brewing (11am)

– Explore the riparian creek bottom, scrub oak woodlands, and open meadows of Bear Creek Nature Center’s Nature Trail. We’ll also see who’s coming to the bird feeders. Afterwards we’ll head over to OCC Brewing for a variety of libations (Peregrine Pale Ale, anyone?) and a great brunch menu.
– The Nature Center will be closed, so no bathrooms on site.
– Bring binoculars and good hiking shoes. There are some steps along the trail. Dress for the Colorado Springs forecast.

Please send your RSVP to Jessica at Jessicaisbirding@gmail.com

Cottonwood Creek Trail Hike
2023-07-02 08:00 - 12:00 | Living Hope Covenant Chuch, 6750 N. Union Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO, 80918, United States
A lovely trail that follows Cottonwood Creek through a residential neighborhood in northeast Colorado Springs. Cottonwood Creek, mature trees and residential yards attract a variety of birds; most recently Song Sparrow, Spotted Towhee, Yellow Warbler, Cordilleran Flycatcher and a surprise Lazuli Bunting.
We’ll explore roughly 5 miles of the trail that is all paved concrete. The entire trail is estimated to be in the mostly gentle grade category (5% or less) with an elevation gain of just over 200’. It’s possible to stay along pavement all the way out & back, with a few short dirt/gravel off-shoots. This trip is focused on developing birders, and we’ll move at a leisurely pace stopping to look for birds and discuss what we see.
Sunscreen and sufficient water are strongly recommended (there is little to no shade), along with a hat, comfortable walking shoes and binoculars. No restrooms are located along the portion of trail we will explore, but are within a short driving distance. Picnic tables are located our meeting spot. Feel free to bring your own lunch and something to share with the group if you would like to take part in a group lunch at the conclusion of our hike.
This trip is offered cooperatively by the Aiken Audubon Society and the Denver Field Ornithologists.
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED, and is accessible through THE DENVER FIELD ORNITHOLOGISTS WEBSITE.
You will need to create an account and login to register. CLICK HERE to register.

Florissant Fossil Bed with Debbie Barnes
2023-07-03 06:30 - 10:00 | Florissant Fossil Beds, 15807 Co Rd 1, Florissant, CO, 80816, United States
Join Aiken and Debbie Barnes on a bird walk at Florissant Fossil Beds on July 3rd from 6:30am- 10am. Meet at the Barksdale Picnic area off Twin Rocks Rd, just south of the visitor center. It is a left turn only, the picnic area is then on the left. There is a standard entrance fee ($10 per person) to visit the fossil beds, with parking for only 5 cars. Debbie will already be up near there camping that weekend. Other registrants are encouraged to carpool from Red Rock Canyon Loop Trailhead off of 31st street (behind Rudy’s). The drive is 45 minutes, so meet at the trailhead at 5:30am, with departure at 5:40am.

The Florissant Formation is a sedimentary geologic formation outcropping around Florissant, Teller County, Colorado. The formation is noted for the abundant and exceptionally preserved insect and plant fossils that are found in the mudstones and shales. Wikipedia

Appropriate for all levels of birders.
Physical difficulty: Easy.
Meet at the picnic area by the visitor center – see map in profile picture.
Cost: Entrance fee is $10 per person.
Limited to 12 participants, with carpooling required.
You will be asked to sign a waiver prior to the walk.

Flammulated Owls with Brian Linkhart - Trip is Full - Waitlist Only
2023-07-07 18:30 - 22:30
We are excited to tell you about an upcoming bird walk on Friday, July 7th at 630p – Flammulated Owls!

Professor Brian Linkhart will lead this fantastic tour on behalf of Aiken. This is often good timing for being able to see owlets and maybe even see them access their nests!
We will need to cap it at 12 people, so if you’re interested email Melanie Helton at MHELTON016@gmail.com. Melanie will register the first 12 people that respond. Each person (email) may only register for 2 people.

We will meet at the Manitou Experimental Forest (MEF) and the hike details will be provided to you once you’ve been confirmed. Please note that we will be hiking in the dark through some rugged terrain and angled slope without headlamps or flashlights. If this doesn’t excite you, please don’t register!
We kindly request a $25 donation per person, cash or check made payable to Aiken; 100% supports Dr. Linkhart’s ongoing research. If you are in need of partial scholarship to cover this donation, please let me know.

I will be checking-in with the twelve confirmed individuals a few days beforehand to confirm. Please list your best contact information within the registration request (email and phone number) for each individual. I will work a waitlist to ensure that we have a full group!

Thank you for being a member of Aiken!

Birds & Brew - Mueller State Park & Paradox Brewing
2023-07-09 07:15 - 14:00 | Mueller State Park, 21045 CO 67, Divide, CO, 80814
Sunday, July 9
Mueller State Park (8am) followed by Paradox Brewing (12pm)
– We will hike through the montane forest and meadows and past a couple ponds to find a variety of birds. This will also be a great wildflower walk!
– Bring binoculars and good hiking shoes.our route will take us 4 miles over moderate terrain. Dress for the Divide, CO forecast.
– Carpool/caravan option from OCC Safeway (3275 W Colorado Ave) at 7:15am. Keep in mind that unless you have an annual pass, a $10 vehicle charge will apply at the entrance.

Please RSVP to Jessica at Jessicaisbirding@gmail.com

Bear Creek East with Cinnamon Bergeron - July 21st at 7a
2023-07-21 07:00 - 09:00 | Bear Creek Regional Park – East, 2002 Creek Crossing, Colorado Springs, CO, United States
Join Aiken & Cinnamon Bergeron on a walk at Bear Creek East, Friday, July 21st at 7a– meet by the Garden Plot parking lot.

Bear Creek East’s trails are through rolling foothills and along the creek, which are great for all-season birding.
– Difficulty: Easy/Moderate. We will be on slightly rolling terrain.
– Bring binoculars and dress for the Colorado Springs forecast.

If you’d like to borrow a pair of binoculars, please email mhelton016@gmail.com in advance!

No registration is required.

Bathroom facilities are available in the administration building.

Birds & Brew Adams Open Space & Peaks N Pines Brewing
2023-08-13 09:00 - 13:00 | Adams Open Space, 298 S Main St, Fountain, CO, 80817
Sunday, August 13

Adams Open Space (9am) followed by Peaks N Pines Brewing (12pm)
– We’ll stroll along Jimmy Camp Creek’s wetlands, riparian woodlands, and cottonwood forest in search of a variety of birds that enjoy this hidden little park.
– Meet at the Fountain Library (230 S Main St, Fountain, CO 80817). The Library is closed on Sundays, so no bathrooms are on site.
– Bring binoculars and good walking shoes. This trail is relatively flat and easy. Dress for the Fountain, CO forecast.

Please RSVP to Jessica at Jessicaisbirding@gmail.com

Join Aiken & Diana Beatty at Fountain Creek Nature Center - September 12
2023-09-12 17:00 - 19:00 | Fountain Creek Nature Center, 320 Pepper Grass Lane, Fountain, 80817
Join us for a bird walk at Fountain Creek Nature Center on September 12, 5-7 pm, led by Diana Beatty.
Fountain Creek Regional Park is a natural migration corridor and the major watercourse of the Pikes Peak region. Come explore the ponds, streams, wetlands, forest, and grasslands of this 450-acre county park to discover its birds and other wildlife.

Appropriate for all levels of birders.
Physical difficulty: Easy.
If you’d like to borrow a pair of binoculars, please let mhelton016@gmail.com know in advance.

Meet at Fountain Creek Nature Center (map).

Rock Ledge Ranch with Kip Miller - September 13!
2023-09-13 09:00 - 11:00 | Rock Ledge Ranch, 3199 Chambers Way, Colorado Springs, CO, 80904, United States
Rock Ledge Ranch Weekday Birding: Wednesday, September 13, 9:00 a.m.
Located adjacent to Garden of the Gods Park in Colorado Springs, Rock Ledge Ranch can be a surprisingly good location for observing migrant songbirds during spring and fall migrations. Today we’ll spend a few hours slowly working around the grounds checking the wooded areas, as well as the farm and open areas for birds pausing to rest and refuel on their way south. We may walk a mile or so, but slowly and on easy terrain.
Kip Miller will lead this outing. Meet at the south end of the Garden of the Gods overflow parking area. (Directions will be provided to all registrants.) Group size will be limited to 12 participants. For more information or to reserve a space, please contact Kip at hlbirdguide@gmail.com.

Fountain Creek Nature Center with Diana Beatty, September 19th!
2023-09-19 17:00 - 19:00 | Fountain Creek Nature Center, 320 Pepper Grass Lane, Fountain, 80817
Join us for a bird walk at Fountain Creek Nature Center on September 19, 5-7 pm, led by Diana Beatty.
Fountain Creek Regional Park is a natural migration corridor and the major watercourse of the Pikes Peak region. Come explore the ponds, streams, wetlands, forest, and grasslands of this 450-acre county park to discover its birds and other wildlife.

Appropriate for all levels of birders.
Physical difficulty: Easy.
If you’d like to borrow a pair of binoculars, please let mhelton016@gmail.com know in advance.

Meet at Fountain Creek Nature Center (map).

Chico Basin with Linda Hodges - September 21st - FULL for the trip and waitlist!
2023-09-21 07:30 - 13:00 | Chico Basin Ranch, 22500 S Peyton Hwy, Colorado Springs, CO, 80928, United States
The Chico trip and waitlist are now FULL. Thank you.

Join Aiken & Linda Hodges on Thursday, September 21st!
Fall migration will be in full swing in September at Chico Basin Ranch! We’ll stop at the banding station, then look for warblers and flycatchers coming through as well as Scaled Quail, Ladder-backed Woodpeckers, Canyon Towhees and Northern Mockingbirds. One of the joys of the Chico migrant trap is you never know what will show up! Details to follow, but plan on a timeframe of 7:30 to noon or 1:00. High-clearance vehicles will be needed, as will your $10 for the Chico entrance fee. Contact Linda Hodges at hikerhodges@gmail.com to register.
22500 S Peyton Hwy, Colorado Springs, CO 80928

Birds & Brews with Jessica Miller Manitou Lake (9am) followed by BierWerks (11am)
2023-09-24 09:00 - 12:00 | Manitou Lake CO-67, CO-67, Colorado Springs, 80903, United States
Sunday,September 24
Manitou Lake (9am) followed by BierWerks (11am)
– Manitou Lake is surrounded by evergreen forests, meadows, and wetlands formed by beaver dams. The diverse habitat, flat walking, and lovely scenery make this a great birding destination, especially during migration! On our way home we’ll stop by BierWerks Brewery in Woodland Park to enjoy German ales and lagers.
– This is an easy/moderate 2 mile hike along mostly flat, uneven trails.
– Bring binoculars and dress for the Woodland Park forecast. Lederhosen not necessary.
– At the entrance, a $10 fee per vehicle is charged. Option to carpool/caravan from Old Colorado City area at 7:15am.
– RSVP by emailing trip leader Jessica Miller at jessicaisbirding@gmail.com

Clear Spring Ranch with Kip Miller - September 27th!
2023-09-27 08:30 - 11:30 | Clear Spring Ranch, Loren Lane, Fountain, CO, 80817, United States
Clear Spring Ranch Weekday Birding: Wednesday, September 27, 8:30 a.m.
Join us for a late September morning exploring this county-managed, 970-acre park along Fountain Creek for both migrant and wintering birds. In addition to the riparian forest, the park hosts extensive grasslands, where sparrows, raptors, and other species can be found. Total walking distance may be up to three miles, but at an easy birding pace and on level trails and gravel roads.
Kip Miller will lead this outing. Meet at the Clear Spring Ranch parking lot. (Directions will be provided to all registrants.) Group size limited to 12. For more information or to reserve a space, please contact Kip at hlbirdguide@gmail.com.

Fountain Creek - Kohl's Parking to Mule Farm - with Cinnamon Bergeron!
2023-10-20 08:30 - 10:30 | Fountain Creek from Kohl’s to Mule Farm, 2725 Janitell Road, Colorado Springs, CO, 80906, United States
Join Aiken & Cinnamon Bergeron on a walk along Fountain Creek – Kohl’s parking lot to Mule Farm. We’ll meet in the Kohl’s parking lot toward the pond. October 20, 2023 – 830-1030a

There is a mix of woodland, wetland, meadow, and pond habitats along Fountain Creek, which are great all year for birding.
– Difficulty: Easy/Moderate. We will be on relatively flat terrain.
– Bring binoculars and dress for the Fountain forecast.

Birds & Brews with Jessica Miller - Palmer Park (9am) followed by Deuces Wild Brewery (12pm)
2023-10-22 09:00 - 13:00 | Palmer park, 3344-3376 Paseo Rd, Colorado Springs, CO, 80909, United States
Sunday, October 22
Palmer Park (9am) followed by Deuces Wild Brewery (12pm)
– We’ll explore meadows and pine-oak scrub habitats while enjoying great views of Pikes Peak and the park’s own great rock formations. We’ll look for mostly year-round residents while hoping for a late migrant or two.
– This hike will be moderate, going 3 miles over uneven terrain with some incline.
– Bring binoculars and dress for the Colorado Springs forecast.
– RSVP by emailing trip leader Jessica Miller at jessicaisbirding@gmail.com

Lake Pueblo State Park with Kip Miller - Changed to November 11th!
2023-11-11 08:00 - 15:00 | Lake Pueblo State Park (Visitor Center), 601-633 Pueblo Reservoir Rd, Pueblo, CO, 81005, United States
Lake Pueblo State Park: Saturday, November 11th, 8:00 am – 3:00 p.m.
Join us for this Aiken Audubon fall outing to Lake Pueblo State Park. Waterbirds will certainly be a major focus – we’ll scan for loons, ducks, grebes, gulls and more from the lake’s best vantage points – but we’ll also be alert for raptors and land birds in the park’s desert habitats and in wooded areas below the dam. Our actual itinerary will be flexible based on recent reports, weather conditions and time – but it should be a fun day of easy birding (no long hikes planned). We’ll spend the morning and a few hours of the afternoon in or near the park, so pack a lunch, water and such and remember to bring along warm layers in the event of chilling fall breezes.
Kip Miller will lead this outing. We will meet at the Lake Pueblo State Park Office and Visitor Center. (Please note an $10/vehicle daily fee or Colorado State Parks annual pass is required for entry to Lake Pueblo State Park.) Group size will be limited to 12 participants. For more information or to reserve a space, please contact Kip at hlbirdguide@gmail.com.

Weekend Waterbirds at Prospect Lake – Saturday, November 18, 9:00 a.m.
2023-11-18 09:00 - 11:00 | Prospect Lake, South Union Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO, United States
Weekend Waterbirds at Prospect Lake – Saturday, November 18, 9:00 a.m.

Despite its urban location, Prospect Lake in Colorado Springs’ Memorial Park is a well-known waterbird magnet during migration and in early winter when open water remains available. With this in mind, we will meet here this morning to check the lake for ducks, geese, grebes, gulls and more – as well as the occasional raptor attracted by these birds.
Walking distance around the lake is approximately 1.25 miles. We will start from the main parking lot on the lake’s east side, off of South Union Boulevard (adjacent to the Peace Officers Memorial). Remember to bring along warm layers in the event of chilling fall breezes.

Kip Miller will lead this outing. For more information or to reserve a space, please contact Kip at hlbirdguide@gmail.com.

At Capacity - Full! Birds & Brews with Jessica Miller - Stratton Open Space (12pm) followed by Happy Taps (3pm)
2023-11-19 12:00 - 16:00 | Stratton Open Space
We’re at capacity for Sunday’s trip! If you’d like to be waitlisted, please reach out to Jessica at the address below!

Sunday, November 19
Stratton Open Space (12pm) followed by Happy Taps (3pm)
– Explore the foothills meadows and pine oak forests in search of resident west-side birds.
– This hike will be moderate, going 3 miles over uneven terrain with some incline.
– Bring binoculars and dress for the Colorado Springs forecast.
– RSVP by emailing trip leader Jessica Miller at jessicaisbirding@gmail.com

Blackbird Friday Field Trip | Big Johnson Reservoir & Fountain Creek Nature Center
2023-11-26 08:00 - 12:30 | Big Johnson Reservoir and Bluestem Prairie Open Space, 6254 Goldfield Dr, Colorado springs, 80911, United States
**Notice: Rescheduled to Sunday, Nov 26 due to weather.** Big Johnson is the best reservoir in the Colorado Springs area, and during migration and winter is teeming with ducks of many species, gulls, and sometimes loons and grebes. We’ll scan the lake for waterfowl and raptors, and then take a short walk to look and listen for longspurs and scaled quail in the Bluestem Prairie Open Space. Afterwards we’ll head a few miles down the road to Fountain Creek Nature Center and get closer looks at waterfowl, American Dippers, various sparrows and any other recent arrivals that might be around. Total field trip time will be approximately 4-5 hours. There are no restrooms at Big Johnson, but restrooms are available at Fountain Creek Nature Center.
This is a joint trip with Denver Field Ornithologists.
FREE REGISTRATION HERE

Join Joe LaFleur at Manitou Lake - December 2nd!
2023-12-02 09:00 - 10:00 | Manitou Lake CO-67, CO-67, Colorado Springs, 80903, United States
Manitou Lake Bird Walk
Saturday, Dec. 2- 9:00-10:00 AM. North of Woodland Park on Highway 67, meet at entrance, $10 access fee per vehicle.
Beat cabin fever with a bird walk around Manitou Lake led by Joe LaFleur, author of the book Mountain Birds of Teller County. In the event of a blizzard the walk will be cancelled, otherwise dress warmly for cold and snowy conditions.For more info: 719-301-8801, joe@betterbirdwatching.com

Photo credit to Amanda Borges

Birds & Brews with Jessica Miller - Bear Creek East followed by Cerberus!
2023-12-10 09:00 - 12:00 | Bear Creek Regional Park – East, 2002 Creek Crossing, Colorado Springs, CO, United States
Sunday, December 10
Bear Creek East (9am) & Cerberus Brewing (11am)
– We’ll explore Bear Creek, the beaver ponds along it, and the meadows and scrub oak habitat within Bear Creek Regional Park East. Afterwards we’ll head to Cerberus Brewing to warm up with a beer and brunch!
– Bring binoculars and dress for the Colorado Springs weather. Let Jessica know ahead of time if you need to borrow binoculars.
– Difficulty: Moderate. We will be on relatively flat terrain with some incline and will walk about 2 miles.
– Please RSVP by emailing Jessica at jessicaisbirding@gmail.com

Bear Creek East has 546 acres with foothill views and 10 miles of trails. Hope that you’ll join us!

Pueblo Area with Jessica Miller - Joint Aiken & Denver Field Ornithologists Trip!
2023-12-17 08:00 - 14:00 | Pueblo Area
This trip is offered cooperatively by the Aiken Audubon Society and the Denver Field Ornithologists.
Pueblo area
12/17/2023 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Leader: Jessica Miller jessicaisbirding@gmail.com or 706-288-8112
Trip Difficulty: Moderate
Please sign up via DFO, at https://dfobirds.org/FieldTrips/UpcomingTrips.aspx

Directions
See trip description for meeting instructions
This trip is limited to the first 15 registrations.
Habitats to bird: Developed, Reservoir, Riparian, Wetland
Let’s head down to Pueblo to peruse Runyon Lake, Pueblo City Park, Valco Ponds, and Pueblo Reservoir. Whatever interesting gulls, waterfowl, or wintering migrants may be lurking about, we’re sure to find them! Bring water, snacks, and lunch. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, your binoculars, a scope if you have one, and a camera if you like. If you would like to borrow a pair of binoculars, let the trip leader know. Bathrooms will be available regularly. Wear good walking shoes, our trip will be over relatively flat, easy, unpaved terrain. Carpool and caravan options from Denver, Colorado Springs, and Pueblo areas will be provided.

Stratton Open Space with Mary Rudolph - January 4, 2024!
2024-01-04 09:30 - 11:30 | Starsmore Visitor and Nature Center, 2120 S. Cheyenne Cañon Rd., Colorado Springs, CO, 80906, United States
Join Aiken and Mary Rudolph on January 4, 2024 at 930a! Plan to meet at Starsmore Visitor and Nature Center (2120 S Cheyenne Canyon Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80906) and we’ll walk the Stratton Open Space. Difficulty is easy to medium, mostly flat terrain with some hilly sections.
Bring your binoculars and dress for the forecast! If you would like to borrow a set of binoculars, please send an email to mhelton016@gmail.com to reserve in advance.
No registration is necessary! We just hope to see you and a bunch of birds!
Get to know your leader:
Mary Rudolph graduated from Colorado College in 2023 with a major in organismal biology (emphasis in ornithology) and a minor in Arabic. Born and raised in Colorado Springs, she is an avid long-distance trail runner who loves doing just about anything outside. She first started working with Audubon after attending the Audubon Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 2019. She now serves on the Audubon Rockies board of directors and the Audubon Council of Colorado. Mary also founded Tiger Audubon, the Colorado College Audubon campus chapter.

Birds & Brews with Jessica Miller - Prospect Lake followed by Mash Mechanix
2024-01-07 14:00 - 16:00 | Prospect Lake, South Union Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO, United States
Sunday, January 7
Prospect Lake (2pm) & Mash Mechanix (4pm)

– Prospect Lake is an urban recreational site, but this large body of water is a magnet for waterfowl and gulls in the winter. Who knows what may pop up here! Afterwards we’ll pop over to Mash Mechanix.
– Difficulty: Easy. We will be on relatively flat terrain and will walk about 1.25 miles.
– Bring binoculars and dress for the Colorado Springs forecast. Bring a scope if you have one. Let Jessica know if you need to borrow a pair of binoculars.
– Meet at the Swing High Playground parking lot on the south west side of the lake; a house across the street has the address 812 Prospect Lake Dr.

– Please RSVP by emailing Jessica at jessicaisbirding@gmail.com

Ducks & Donuts with Tally Kerr & DFO | January 28
2024-01-28 09:00 - 15:00 | Pueblo Area
Join us for the second of four, in a new series of winter bird walks focusing on winter waterfowl.
This series focuses on helping developing birders learn how to identify winter waterfowl, but all levels of expertise are welcome. If you’re a developing birder, please join us. This will be a great opportunity to learn together.
This is a special joint trip with Denver Field Ornithologists to the Pueblo area!
The day will start with donuts at Daylight Donuts in Pueblo. We will then enjoy birding along the Arkansas River between The Nature & Wildlife Discovery Center and Lake Pueblo. Ducks are at the top of our list for the day, and we will also be looking for a variety of sparrows, phoebes, wrens, woodpeckers, hawks and more. This is a good area to discover something unusual along the river and in the nearby thickets. If time allows, we will stop by Pueblo City Park to conclude the trip.
The day will include approximately 5 miles of walking with possible areas of mud and ice.
Plan for Colorado weather and dress accordingly for cold and changing weather.
Pack your binoculars or let Tally know if you need to borrow a pair.
Scopes will be available to share, but feel free to bring your own if you’d like.
Be sure to pack snacks, lunch, water and sunscreen.
Restrooms will be available at several spots.
Carpooling meeting spots will be announced for those in Denver Metro area and for those in the Pikes Peak region.
Registration is required through the Denver Field Ornithologists website.
Click on Field Trips, and scroll down to select this trip. If you don’t see the trip listed, please check back often.

Manitou Lake Bird Walk led by Joe LaFleur - February 10
2024-02-10 09:00 - 10:00 | Manitou Lake CO-67, CO-67, Colorado Springs, 80903, United States
A note from Joe (2/8/24):

Forecast is showing light snow from Friday thru Sat. AM, about 4 inches total, also cold, in the 20s, however one good thing it won’t be windy. I will be there regardless!

Manitou Lake Bird Walk
Saturday, February 10
9:00-10:00 AM
Guided Bird Walk at Manitou Lake north of Woodland Park on Highway 67, meet at entrance. Manitou Lake is the best birding area in Teller County because it features a diversity of habitats, including wetlands that are not a common habitat type in the county. A bonus boardwalk provides easy access through the wetland. In addition, the moving water below the spillway provides open water that attracts birds in winter.
$10 vehicle access, binoculars suggested. In the event of a blizzard, the walk will be cancelled, otherwise dress warmly and be prepared for snowy conditions.
Walk led by local birding expert and author Joe LaFleur.
More info: joe@betterbirdwatching.com, 719-301-8801

Birds & Brew with Jessica Miller - Pueblo Reservoir and Valco Ponds!
2024-02-18 09:00 - 14:00 | Pueblo Area
Sunday, February 18
Pueblo Reservoir and Valco Ponds (9am) & Reservoir Brewing (1pm)
– Let’s peruse the ponds along the Arkansas River and Pueblo Reservoir for a variety of waterfowl, gulls, and resident birds. Afterwards we’ll head to Reservoir Brewing to toast our excellent bird list!
– Bring binoculars and dress for the Pueblo forecast. Bring a scope if you have one. Let Jessica know if you need to borrow a pair of binoculars.
– We will coordinate a carpool/caravan from Colorado Springs. After we arrive we will drive between 4 or 5 birding locations, all within Lake Pueblo State Park. It’s recommended that cars have a Colorado State Park Pass, otherwise, be prepared to purchase a daily pass ($10) per vehicle.
– Difficulty: Easy. We will be on relatively flat terrain and will walk about 2 miles throughout the morning.
– Bring a snack to get you through the morning, but the Brewery has lunch items!
– Please RSVP by emailing Jessica at jessicaisbirding@gmail.com

Photo taken by Jerlene Haywood

Rosy-Finch Trip with Debbie Barnes - Changed to Feb 25, 7a meet
2024-02-25 07:00 - 13:00 | Safeway 3275 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Rosy-Finch Trip
We will drive up into the mountains to look for wandering flocks of Rosy-finches along with other wintering/resident mountain birds at feeders around Goldfield and Victor, possibly Cripple Creek if needed.
Feb 25th 7am-1pm
Meet at Safeway 3275 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80904 back of parking lot against HWY24 see red circle.

Bring warm clothing, water and food.
Trip may have to be cancelled or postponed due to weather but decision will be made ahead of time.
No registration is necessary, although check website for possible cancelation due to weather.
Any questions, please contact Melanie (mhelton016@gmail.com)
