ACES Morning Birding at Rock Bottom Ranch 06/23/26

Birding at Rock Bottom Ranch is always a treat, as it beautifully showcases the area’s diverse, converging habitats. We started our day in chilly 49-degree weather, but by the time everyone arrived, the sun was flooding the bike trail and parking area, warming us right up. The highlights began immediately with a wonderful view of a dozen wild turkeys crossing the path to the ranch. Nearby, a resident Red-tailed Hawk watched us from the dead branch of a cottonwood tree overlooking the bike path. Overhead, Violet-green and Tree Swallows filled the sky, as well as a flock of Rock Pigeons. We were also treated to a surprise: a flushed Wilson’s Snipe that flew straight toward us before banking to reveal its distinctively long bill. While we couldn’t pinpoint the exact nesting hole of the Lewis’s Woodpeckers, we were delighted by great views of several individuals. It is officially baby bird season; we watched female Red-winged Blackbirds busy with their maternal duties while the males kept a close, watchful eye nearby. With its incredible bird activity and some of the most beautiful weeping willows in the valley, Rock Bottom Ranch is always well worth a visit. Join us on June 30 for Tuesday Morning birding at Hallam Lake!