Spring Migration in Colorado: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise Takes Flight

As spring awakens the Centennial State, skies across Colorado come alive with movement. Each year, thousands of birds migrate northward through the state, offering a spectacular natural show for birders, nature lovers, and photographers alike. From alpine peaks to prairie grasslands, Colorado’s diverse landscapes make it one of the best places in the country to witness spring migration in full swing.

When to See Colorado’s Migrating Birds

Spring migration in Colorado typically begins in late March, intensifies through April and May, and continues into early June. Timing varies by species, but early mornings during this window are ideal for spotting birds as they stop to rest and refuel on their journey north.

Here are some of the most stunning birds you can expect to see this season:

• Broad-tailed Hummingbirds – Among the first hummingbirds to return, these dazzling flyers arrive in mid-to-late April and frequent gardens, foothills, and mountain meadows.

Broad-tailed Hummingbird

• Western Tanagers – With bright yellow bodies and red heads, these songbirds pass through in late April to early May, often in forested foothills.

Western Tanager

• Swainson’s Hawks – Large raptors that soar over open plains and grasslands, they begin appearing in early April.

Swainson’s Hawk

• Yellow Warblers & Wilson’s Warblers – These colorful songbirds fill Colorado’s riparian zones in May, especially near creeks and rivers.

Yellow Warbler

• Mountain Bluebirds – Often seen in open grasslands and meadows by early spring, their vivid blue plumage is a favorite among birders.

Mountain Bluebird

• White-faced Ibis – Elegant wading birds that migrate through Colorado’s wetlands and are frequently spotted in April.

White-faced Ibis

Top Birding Hotspots Across Colorado

1. Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge (San Luis Valley)
Each spring, thousands of Sandhill Cranes stop here during their migration. The Monte Vista Crane Festival in March celebrates their arrival.

2. Barr Lake State Park (Brighton)
A prime Front Range location for spring birding with over 350 species recorded, including warblers, hawks, and shorebirds.

3. Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge (Denver area)
Just minutes from the city, this refuge offers quiet trails and observation blinds—perfect for spotting migrating waterfowl and songbirds.

4. Pawnee National Grassland (Northeast Colorado)
Open prairies host Long-billed Curlews, Burrowing Owls, and Lark Buntings in the spring.

5. Boulder Area (Walden Ponds, Sawhill Ponds, Boulder Creek)
While this blog focuses on all of Colorado, it’s worth noting that Boulder offers excellent birdwatching access just minutes from downtown. Look for warblers, bluebirds, swallows, and raptors as spring migration peaks.

Tips for Spring Birdwatching in Colorado

• Go early: Birds are most active at dawn, especially after a night of migration.

• Bring binoculars and a field guide, or try apps like Merlin Bird ID or eBird.

• Be patient and quiet—you’re more likely to spot birds when you let the landscape come alive on its own.

• Watch the weather: Cold fronts can “ground” birds, creating fantastic viewing opportunities.

• Take notes or photos to log what you see and track migration patterns year after year.

A Season to Remember

Spring in Colorado is more than blooming wildflowers and warming trails—it’s a time of wonder overhead. The state’s position at the crossroads of multiple migratory flyways makes it a natural stopover for countless species.

Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious observer, witnessing spring migration is a reminder of nature’s magic in motion. And with so many places to explore—from the sweeping San Luis Valley to Boulder’s backyard trails—there’s no better time to look up and take in the sky’s most colorful travelers.

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