Named an important birding area by the National Audubon Society, over 200 species of birds have been observed at Highline Lake State Park, including Vermilion Flycatcher, extremely rare in Western Colorado; snow geese, white swans, pelicans, blue herons, osprey, bald and golden eagles, owls, sand hill cranes, loons, loggerhead shrike and Cooper's Hawks.
Bald and golden eagles are often observed in the winter, hanging out in the leafless trees near the lakes, or soaring over the waters, looking for a meal! Recent discoveries include screech owls in the owl boxes near the Group Area! You cannot get close; they will back into their box and you won't be able to see them at all.
A 'Birds of Highline Lake State Park' checklist is available at the entrance stations or the park office. There are two Watchable Wildlife Kiosks on either side of Highline Lake, complete with viewing scopes.
The campground has become a yearly haven for Great Horned Owls and Cooper's Hawks to nest and raise their young until they are able to take flight and fend for themselves. Ask at the Visitor Center for information concerning where to look for them. Please do not disturb them, but with a little patience, you can get some amazing photos!
At Highline Lake, during the seasons, you can see and hear bald eagles, sandhill cranes, flocks of geese and ducks, Great Horned Owls, Red-Tailed and Cooper's Hawks, our very own ever-growing herd of mule deer! All sorts of feathered and non-feathered species may be seen year around in the Park and the surrounding rural area!