> Departments > Natural Resources > Park Areas > Fossil Creek Reservoir Regional Open Space > Conditions

Fossil Creek Reservoir Regional Open Space Conditions

Current Conditions

Report Last Updated: 11/19/2009
These reports are updated only when conditions change

Please see the Natural Resources Events Calendar for guided nature hikes.

Trail Conditions

Starting Sunday November 15, the Cattail Loop (eastern trail) will be closed to lessen the impact to wintering bald eagles.

During snowy weather the Heron loop will be maintained and plowed. There is a water fountain in front of the bathrooms if you need to fill up.

Please keep in mind that dogs are not allowed at Fossil Creek Reservoir. This is because dogs are seen as predators by other wildlife, especially birds. Over 220 different types of birds that have been spotted at Fossil Creek Reservoir, and it was designated as an Important Birding Area by the National Audubon Society.

Raptor Sightings

It has been a great year to view raptors at Fossil Creek Reservoir! Northern Harriers, Bald Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks, Great Horned Owls, Prairie Falcons and American Kestrels have also been sighted recently.

Bald eagles are starting to move in for their wintering season at Fossil Creek. A few have been sighted, but look for more to come in the next few weeks. Check the Events Calendar for guided hikes to see and learn more about these facinating raptors!

Wildlife Sightings

A small family of three to six coyotes can sometimes be seen in the grassland areas alone or with the pack howling, napping, and playing. Their tracks often wind in and out of the Sandpiper Trail.

Shorebird/Gull Sightings

Ring-billed gulls are the most prevalent.

Waterfowl Sightings

Mallards, Redheads, Teal, Coots, Northern Shovelers and Pin-tails.

Songbird Sightings

Meadowlarks and Red-winged blackbirds.