05/14/2026
Few birds capture the quiet mystery of the Great Plains quite like the Mountain Plover. Once more widespread across the shortgrass prairie, this remarkable species has become increasingly scarce and difficult to find, with ongoing habitat loss contributing to long-term declines across much of its range.
Each spring, the wide-open expanses of the Pawnee National Grassland become one of the most important breeding strongholds for Mountain Plovers in Colorado. Their incredible camouflage, soft calls, and preference for vast prairie landscapes make every encounter feel special. It’s a reminder of how wild and fragile these grassland ecosystems truly are.
Searching for Mountain Plovers is one of my favorite experiences to share on our Pawnee birding tours. There’s something unforgettable about scanning the prairie horizon and suddenly realizing that the “ghost” has appeared right in front of you.
