![A woman with a braid in her hair looking through binoculars at a scrubby landscape](/sites/default/files/styles/scale_width_600/public/2021-01/birding-kari-hagenow-at-laguna-atascosaNWR-susan-morse-usfws%3Dcropped.jpg?itok=G6DDJfrW)
Birdwatching is one of the fastest growing outdoor activities in Colorado. The Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge is proud to help with that trend. The refuge hosts literally hundreds of different bird species throughout its diverse landscapes. From large raptors like Bald Eagles and Red-tailed Hawks to small songbirds such as Vesper Sparrows and Yellow Warblers, to the massive wingspans of Great-blue Herons and Sandhill Cranes, the refuge can help birdwatchers add to their birding lists.
Best areas to get some birding in is along the Wildlife Drive and the Highway 15 Observation Pullouts. Bring your favorite birding book and a pair of binoculars and hangout in these areas during the early mornings and late evenings. The more still and quiet you are the more comfortable the birds will be and they will resume their daily activities quicker, thus giving you a spectacular view.