Colorado Birding

San Luis Valley Floor (Rio Grande County portion) - Rio Grande County
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Ownership: None Listed
Description: In open fields during migration, unusual birds have included Long-billed Curlew, Whimbrel, Eastern Kingbird, American Pipit, and Mountain Plover. Among plains-type species, look for Wilson's Snipe, Sage Thrasher, Blue Grosbeak, and Lark Bunting. Common raptors are American Kestrel, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Northern Harrier, Red-tailed Hawk and, in winter, Bald Eagle and Rough-legged Hawk, including dark morph. A few Swainson's Hawks nest in summer. Burrowing Owl, Barn Owl, and Long-eared Owl would be lucky finds. Loggerhead Shrike is fairly common in summer. Small kettles of Turkey Vultures appear in early summer. Savannah Sparrow, Brewer's Sparrow, Song Sparrow, and White-crowned Sparrow are fairly common. In shallow standing water expect to find American Avocet and Wilson's Phalarope. White-faced Ibis and Snowy Egret are common.

Habitat: Sagebrush, Grassland/Prairie, Wet Meadow
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Directions: Birding can be good along any U.S. or state highways in area and numerous county roads.
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