Birdwatching

Bird List & Habitat

The Swaner Preserve is host to nearly 170 species of birds—and counting! Check out our digital bird list or come to the EcoCenter during public open hours to get a free physical copy. 

This species diversity largely results from the various habitat types and a sizable intact wetland, a rarity in Utah. These birds use the Preserve throughout the year, and it is especially crucial as a stopover during migration seasons. The Swaner Preserve is dominated by a high alpine wet meadow (a type of wetland) and also encompasses diverse big sagebrush shrublands, semidesert grasslands, gambel oak/mixed montane shrublands, stream corridors, and ponds.

Migratory birds return to Utah typically during March-September, and this is a particularly great time for birding. However, you can still spot resident bird species during the colder months!

Borrow Binoculars

The EcoCenter is a great place for birding! Stop in during public open hours and borrow binoculars for free during your visit. You can take them out to our 400-foot pier and observation tower to spot birds. If you're looking to get out onto the Preserve, one of our naturalists can give you access to our Wetland Discovery Trail.

eBird Hotspots

Check out recent bird sightings!

eBird Hotspot: Swaner Preserve

eBird Hotspot: Spring Creek Trailhead

Thank you for your interest in the birds of the Swaner Preserve. Your observations contribute to the knowledge and conservation of birds found here, so please send your interesting or unusual sightings to SwanerEcoCenter@usu.edu!