Learn more about the wildlife in Colorado at the State Division of Wildlife.

NEW! Wildlife View Blind
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Dogs are not allowed on the Refuge at any time, with the exception of assistance dogs.

By taking a short walk on the trails you may encounter sparrows, hawks, woodpeckers, red-winged blackbirds, magpies, warblers, waterfowl and herons.

As the seasons change so does the landscape and its animal inhabitants. Two Ponds NWR is used by more than 113 bird species, 22 which nest on the Refuge. In the spring waterfowl visit the ponds as they make their way north to their breeding grounds. Bullock's orioles gather grasses to make their hanging nest high in the trees.

Coyote, red fox, muskrat, raccoons, beaver, deer, several species of small mammals, amphibians and a variety of reptiles are observed at Two Ponds.

Throughout the summer deer move quietly through the woodlands and grasslands. Butterflies are attracted to wild roses and other blooming plants. Painted turtles sunbathe on partially submerged logs. Young kestrels practice flying skills and the air is abuzz with the sounds of dragonflies, the chatter of jays and kingfishers, and the reedy trill of red-winged blackbirds.

During the fall, as cooler weather arrives, ducks, geese and blackbirds stop to rest at the Refuge during their journey south. White-crowned sparrows, juncos, and warblers search for seeds and insects. Ripened apples and plums provide a banquet for raccoons, foxes, blue jays and magpies.

Each year Two Ponds NWR provides valuable habitat and resting points along flyways for native and non-native birds. The various ecosystems present throughout the Refuge support a great diversity of bird species which in turn helps to ensure their conservation. A CHECKLIST (pdf file) based on monthly survey data collected since 1995, shows resident or migrant birds observed on the Refuge.

Tracks in the winter snow reveal animal activity in the seemingly quiet landscape. Raccoons, red fox, small voles and mule deer crisscross the Refuge in search of food.

You are invited to view or photograph all the wildlife while you walk the trails of this urban Refuge in Arvada, Colorado.