For the Birds

Today, teams of birdwatchers and chili lovers come together for the annual Holiday Bird Count, spending the day counting birds throughout the Denver metro area, including Roxborough State Park.

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More About

• Birds of Prey
• Wildlife

The 3,339-acre park is a Colorado natural area and a national Natural Landmark, with breathtaking views of several beautiful rock formations, including the famous Fountain Formation, Lyons Formation and the Dakota Hogback. It’s also home to some fabulous wildlife, including 145 species of birds, 42 of which nest in the park. And according to Roxborough officials, a golden eagle nest is located on the Fountain Formation just outside of the park’s boundary.

You might see a canyon wren, a Western tanager, a broad-tailed hummingbird, raptors, songbirds, waterfowl and grassland species such as vesper sparrows and Western meadowlarks, among others. If you’re lucky, you might even spot ferruginous hawks or burrowing owls.

After spending the day counting birds, grab a spoon to dig into a potluck chili dinner at the Roxborough Visitor Center to warm you up. There’s a $2 chili charge, and registration is required; for more information, contact 303-973-3959 or visit www.coloradoparks.org. Check out westword.com to find more bird counts in the region.
Sat., Jan. 3, 7:30 a.m., 2009