ACES // Pitkin County Open Space: Birding at the Gorge of the Roaring Fork 8/26/24

Migrating birds abound on this outing which follows a loop route on trails that traverse upland habitats above the gorge, as well as descending switchbacks through open Douglas fir forests with patches of fruiting shrubs and sagebrush to the river corridor lined with cottonwoods and leafy understory plants. Views of the river gorge and Red and Gold Buttes are stunning, showcasing the many values of these Open Space lands. Hummingbirds and swallows were the most abundant birds today, although we also enjoyed views of many warblers including yellow, Wilson’s, and Virginia’s. Swallows were flying overhead, but present in much lower numbers than we usually see in this section of the gorge at this time of year. Swallows and hummingbirds are among the earliest migratory birds to leave the valley, and will be gone in the next 2-3 weeks. As we finished our route, there were many sparrows in the Stein Connector Trail’s switchbacks. These birds were in various stages of molt and were difficult to identify, but with a lot of effort, we were able to ID some as Brewer’s and chipping sparrows. Fall birding is such a fun challenge! Join us for more exciting birding during this migration season with the many outings offered in September!