Birds and raptors
Louisville Open Space is home to many bird species, including raptors such as the American kestrel and the great horned owl.
American kestrel
American kestrels live in Boulder County all year and can be found across most of North America. They are the smallest and most widespread falcons on the continent. They like open areas where they can perch and look for food.
Kestrels hunt from perches and eat insects, small rodents, reptiles, frogs, and small birds. They nest in natural tree holes or nest boxes. Kestrel numbers have dropped in recent years because of habitat loss, disease, and predation by larger owls and hawks.
Males and females look different. Males have colorful bluish-gray wings. Females have reddish-brown wings with dark stripes.
- Courtship: March to April
- Incubation: April to mid-June
- Eggs: 3 to 6 eggs per clutch
- Fledging: Late April to mid-June
- Time to fledge: About 30 days
- Care of young: The female cares for the young
Great horned owl
Great horned owls live in Boulder County all year and are native to Colorado. They are adaptable and can make a home in many different places, including forests, prairies, deserts, and city parks. Please note: Great horned owls are wild animals and may sometimes hunt small pets like cats or small dogs.
Great Horned Owls hunt many types of animals, including crows, mice, lizards, shorebirds, rabbits, and skunks. Like most owls, they are most active at night. The best time to spot nesting activity is around dusk and dawn.
- Nesting begins: February to March
- Nest sites: Abandoned nests, tree holes, or nest platforms
- Incubation: Starts after the first egg is laid
- Nest care: The female incubates the eggs, and the male guards the nest
- Fledging: Young owls usually leave their parents in midsummer. Some young owls stay in their parents’ territory until the next year
Help track birds and raptors in Louisville
Record bird species you see or hear at Open Space properties. Data helps staff build bird checklists. Good bird ID skills required.
Learn about volunteer opportunities
Raptor nest cameras
The City of Louisville Open Space Division works with the Colorado Avian Research and Rehabilitation Institute (CARRI) to share live views of local raptor nests.
Outdoor cameras are set up on some Open Space properties. They let you watch birds during nesting season while keeping a safe distance from wildlife.
Birds of Hecla Lake checklist
Bird of Hecla Lake checklist (PDF)
Available in print at the kiosk on the east side of Hecla Lake