Cow Lakes

Habitat and Birds

Deep lakes surrounded by sage and some grasslands. Some farmland on the way to the lakes. Waterfowl can be abundant and varied in spring and fall. Waders like American Avocet and Black-necked Stilt can be seen on the shorelines while ducks like Bufflehead, both goldeneye, Ruddy Duck, Redhead, and Canvasback are present in season. Eared Grebes can be found here in the breeding season as can Western Grebe. American White Pelicans are always possible in summer. Occasionally Snow and Ross’s Geese can be found near the lakes or in the farmland on the way to the lakes. Snowy Egret has been recorded here. Snowy Plover has been found here but breeding records are not known. Black-necked Stilt and American Avocet are known to breed here as are Willet. Rarities include Marbled Godwit, Short-billed Dowitcher, Black Tern, Flammulated Owl (check the willow thickets between late March and late May), (Contreras and Kindschy, OFO Publication #8)