Mountains can be beautifully rich and diverse habitats, and they are the go-to destinations for certain alpine species that can only be seen at high altitudes and are target birds for many birders. These can be challenging habitats to visit, however, and birders need to be prepared for the experience in order not to miss a feathered moment.

Best Mountains for Birding

All different types of mountains offer unique birding opportunities, from gentle foothill slopes to more rugged terrain and jagged peaks.


The best types of mountains for productive birding include…

• Wide, minimally developed areas that have established trails for access but without extensive camping, hunting or sporting areas that would disturb wildlife. Areas with national parks or dedicated preserves are ideal choices.
   
• Mountains that include diverse habitats, such as both steep and gentle slopes, a variety of forest types, alpine meadows and isolated lakes, canyons and other variation. The more diverse the habitat, the more diverse the avifauna that will use it.
   
• Mountain communities such as ski resorts or villages that promote ecologically-friendly practices, including feeding birds. Alpine bird species will readily come to feeders, which can offer superb birding opportunities for visitors who may not be accustomed to mountain climates and challenges.

Birds to Find in the Mountains

A wide range of birds call mountain habitats home, depending on the overall climate, elevation, plant life and other characteristics of specific mountain ranges.

While lower foothills may be home to more familiar backyard species, higher elevations are often rich with more unusual birds, including…

• Raptors and owls
• Woodpeckers
• Grouse
• Dippers and ouzels
• Rosy-finches
• Larks and pipits
• Alpine chough
• Juncos
• Redpolls
• Swifts and swallows
• Pine grosbeak
• Clark's nutcracker
• Gray jay
• Warblers
• Hummingbirds
• Snow finch
• Mountain chickadee
• Mountain bluebird

The diversity of birds and the exact species seen can vary widely, but there are very few types of birds that don't have at least some species comfortable in the mountains, and seeing any of them can be a treat for birders.

Make the Most of Mountain Birding

Mountain birding can be challenging because of the uniqueness of high mountain habitats, but prepared birders will be able to appreciate the stunning views of both birds and landscapes when they visit the mountains.

• Know Your Limitations
  Birding in the mountains can be physically strenuous depending on the difficulty of trails, the overall altitude, elevation changes and local weather. Birders should know which trails are suitable to their abilities, and be prepared for sudden weather changes that can happen quickly at different altitudes.
   
• Come Prepared
  Not only should mountain birders have a sturdy pair of hiking shoes or boots with good traction, but their field bag should include a trail map and essential safety supplies such as a flashlight or beacon in case of emergencies. Dressing in layers is useful for higher altitudes, and adequate snacks and water can help keep energy up for mountain birding hikes.
   
• Visit at the Right Time
  The best birding seasons in the mountains are the shortest ones, and higher elevation roads and trails can be inaccessible during seasonal floods and during winter. Summer is the best season for mountain birding, when alpine meadows are in bloom and many bird species take advantage of the brief seasonal richness the mountains offer.
   
• Visit Different Habitats
  A single mountain may be home to many different micro habitats, with different types of trees at different elevations, a sheltered lake providing a mini-marsh, a meadow rich with flowers for hummingbirds and canyons with rocky outcroppings for hardy species. Choosing a trail that crosses diverse habitats will yield more diverse sightings.
   
• Watch the Skies
  Mountain areas often have strong crosswinds and crazy air currents, ideal for soaring raptors and seasonal migration. Birders should pay close attention to the skies to watch for birds in flight, particularly near cliffs or ledges where updrafts make flying easier and birds take advantage of the aerial assist.
   
• Protect Mountain Birds
  Mountain birds may seem protected from environmental catastrophes because of their extreme ranges and relatively undisturbed habitats, but even small changes can make their ranges less hospitable. Birders should always avoid littering in any way, and take no risk that a campfire, smoldering match or cigarette butt could ignite a fire that would difficult to fight in such remote areas. Great care should be taken in rocky areas to not disturb delicate landscapes that could become avalanches or mudslides.
   
• Respect the Mountains
  Mountains are home to much more than just birds, and a wide range of trees, flowers and other plants, as well as many animals, make their homes in the same areas and face the same risks as the birds. A conscientious birder will be responsible toward all life that uses the habitat, and never pick or disturb plants, harass wildlife or do any harm to the region.

Birding in the mountains can be a rewarding and enriching experience. By being prepared for mountain challenges, birders can be ready to add a wide range of alpine bird species to their life lists.

Photo – Alpine Chough © Jean-Raphaël Guillaumin