Monte Vista Cranes and Conditions

[John Rawinski]

There are excellent numbers of birds in at the Monte Vista Refuge (Rio Grande Cty). I estimate about 8-10,000 cranes and about 6,000 Cackling and Canada Geese. Water is being pumped at certain wetlands and so bird patterns are adjusting to new water and roosting locations.  Grain is being mowed progressively closer to viewing areas so again, changes are expected. Best viewing as of today is at 8S turnout as well as auto tour loop. 

Other birds to watch for include Cinamon and GW teal, A Ross's Goose, a few Snow Geese,  Canvasback, lesser Scaup, Pintail, Mallard, Ring-necked Duck and Wigeon. 

Looks like a favorable forecast for daytime temps in the low 60's for Crane Festival  the 6,7,8. See you there!

John Rawinski

Monte Vista, CO