Bird City Lafayette

Broad-tailed Hummingbird cropLafayette is proud to be the first designated Bird City of Colorado in 2019 by the Environment for the Americas.

Becoming a designated Bird City demonstrates our commitment to conserve native bird species and the habitats they need to survive. We continue to grow our:

  • Monthly "Lafayette Birds!" program
  • Annual World Migratory Bird Day event in September
  • Efforts to create and protect habitats for birds through invasive species removal, native species plantings, and more

The Greenlee Wildlife Preserve, located at Waneka Lake, is a nationally acclaimed location for migratory birds and nesting waterfowl, including Great Horned Owls, Belted Kingfishers, Pied-billed Grebes, Yellow Warblers, and more. 

Lafayette Birds!

First Sunday each month at Waneka Lake Park
View Lafayette Birds! FAQs (PDF)

Beginning birders are invited to experience the fun and discovery of birdwatching at Greenlee Wildlife Preserve located in the northwest section of Waneka Lake Park. Knowledgeable birdwatchers will be on hand the first Sunday of every month with binoculars and spotting scopes bringing the world of birds alive.  View the Open Space event calendar for specific dates and information.

Learn how to use binoculars while field guides teach how to recognize bird species through sound. Youth must be accompanied by adults; suitable for all ages. No RSVP required. 

Greenlee Wildlife Preserve is a nationally recognized wetland where thousands of birds flock each year to take advantage of its rich biological and ecological habitat.

Annual World Migratory Bird Day Celebration 2022 

Greenlee Wildlife Preserve, Sunday, Sept. 18, 1-3pm Discover the wonders of our feathered friends while exploring interactive booths, activities, and local vendors. More information

World Migratory Bird Day

World Migratory Bird Day 

We can thank our feathered friends for:  

  • House Wren CropPollinating flowers
  • Dispersing seeds
  • Insect population control
  • Creating habitat for other wildlife
  • Decomposing organic materials
  • Contributing invaluable data to environmentalists

Through habitat conservation, environmental education, and sustainable decision-making, we are able to do our part in conserving the hundreds of species that use our open spaces, parks, and neighborhoods.

Ways you can contribute to wildlife conservation

  • Colorful Wood Duck floating on waterGarden with native plants. Planting species native to Colorado creates a mini-habitat that provides food and shelter for birds in your yard.
  • Limit or eliminate pesticide use in your yard.
  • Keep your cat inside. In the United States, outdoor cats kill 2.5 billion birds each year.
  • Prevent window collisions. Decals, blinds, or curtains are great ways to prevent birds from hitting your windows.
  • Talk about the benefits of birds. Talk with your friends, family, and neighbors about why we are thankful for our feathered friends.

Resources