Diverse habitats provide excellent viewing of numerous bird species during the Festival
Spring migrants and early nesters attract birdwatchers from across the nation to the Ute Mountain-Mesa Verde Birding Festival. Located in the Archaeological Center of America, many of the birding field trips visit spectacular archaeological areas such as Mesa Verde National Park and the Ute Tribal Park.
Diverse habitats from mountain high country, to river corridors, and rugged red rock canyons provide microcosms of several Colorado Plateau ecosystems providing opportunities for a wide variety of species. Due to the varied habitats found in southwestern Colorado, there are many opportunities to look for raptors and owls, and both are the focus of special birding tours.
A sample of other possible species include Lucy's Warbler, Black Phoebe, Wild Turkey, Western Tanager, Black-chinned Hummingbird, Roadrunner, Clark's Nutcracker, Green-tailed and Spotted Towhee, and many more. Previous festival checklists have totaled over 100 birds sighted.
Workshops, an art show, and a special dinner speaker round out the events for the festival weekend. Join the flock in the land of ancient cultures and modern day Native Americans for an incredible birding adventure.
General Information- Registration is $45, which includes Reception, Lectures and Saturday night's dinner and Keynote Speaker. See individual tours below for their pricing.
- Breakfast items will be available for purchase each morning.
- Welcome Reception on Wednesday is at the Cortez Cultural Center.
- All tours start at the County Annex.
- Don't forget water, jacket, cap, binoculars, scope and your cameras.
- Before you leave, please don't forget to fill out and return your evaluation of the bird festival!
Partners & Sponsors:
Sponsored by
Mesa Verde Country®
Colorado Division of Wildlife
Cortez Retail Enhancement Assoc.
Dolores State Bank
For the Birds
Montezuma County
Montezuma Partners, LLC
Holiday Inn Express
Skanska
Bureau of Land Management
Cortez Cultural Center
Cortez Super 8
San Juan Mountains Assoc.
Sundance Bear Lodge
Farmington Museum
US Forest Service
Ute Mountain Tribal Park
Willowtail Springs
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