Eagle at McIntosh Lake by rock4d

Your Everyday Backyard Regulars

These are the familiar faces you’re likely seeing daily — especially if you’ve got a feeder out:

• Dark-eyed Juncos — The unofficial mascots of winter, hopping around like tiny gray snowballs

• Black-capped Chickadees — Fearless, curious, and always on the move

• Finches — House Finches, American Goldfinches, Cassin’s Finches, and Pine Siskins

• Nuthatches — Red-breasted and White-breasted, often creeping down tree trunks

• Woodpeckers — Downy, Hairy, and Northern Flickers

• Steller’s Jays — Loud, bold, and impossible to miss

• Sparrows — White-crowned and House Sparrows

• Also popping up: Mourning Doves, American Robins, Northern Mockingbirds, European Starlings, and American Crows

The Fun Surprise Sightings

Winter also brings a few “wait…what was that?” moments:

• Rosy Finches — Occasionally spotted at feeders or higher elevations after storms

• Cedar Waxwings — Sleek, social, and often traveling in flocks through town

• Golden-crowned Kinglets — Tiny, fast-moving insect hunters, often near water

Eagle Watch Is On 🦅

Locals are reporting tons of Bald Eagles hanging out near McIntosh Lake and Pella Crossing right now. Keep an eye out for:

• Juvenile bald eagles (they look hilariously scruffy)

• Red-tailed hawks

• American kestrels

• A cackling goose

• Even a rare juvenile golden eagle spotted soaring nearby

Want More Birds in Your Yard?

A few simple tweaks make a big difference:

• Feeders: Black oil sunflower seeds, nyjer, and suet

• Water: A heated bird bath is winter gold

• Shelter: Leave some brush or natural cover if you can

Winter is prime birdwatching season in Colorado — birds rely more on feeders, which means easier (and closer) views. Grab a coffee, look out the window, and enjoy the show.

Arbor Gymnastics Grand Opening!

Arbor Gymnastics is opening this February in Gunbarrel, offering boutique gymnastics and movement classes for babies through age 8. Registration for classes is now open.

Wednesday, January 14

Thursday, January 15

Full-time