Mounds Reservoir is a tiny reservoir in the middle of an otherwise arid and barren desert. The apparently intermittent lake can be dry in some years, or parts of the year, while having small amounts of water, or being completely full at other times. The area around the lake is shrubsteppe and barren desert, with railroad track passing to the north. A small amount of poor riparian habitat, as well as wetland habitat is present here, as well.
This apparent oasis in the desert has a small list of waterfowl including GADWALL, AMERICAN WIGEON, CINNAMON and GREEN-WINGED TEAL, and NORTHERN SHOVELER. AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN and PIED-BILLED GREBE have been reported as well. The surrounding desert provides habitat for GOLDEN EAGLE and PRAIRIE FALCON which may be seen soaring overhead. HORNED LARK, LOGGERHEAD SHRIKE, SAY's PHOEBE, SAGE THRASHER, and LARK SPARROW are commonly encountered. BLACK-THROATED SPARROW, PINYON JAY, and COMMON NIGHTHAWK have all been recorded as well. The riparian habitat at the lake has turned up BLUE GROSBEAK and YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER and might attract some interesting migrants in spring and fall given its desolate location.
From the intersection of Main and Center Street in Wellington, take Main Street east 2.3 miles. Turn right onto Ridge Road and go .3 miles. Take a left onto Farnham Road and got 8.7 miles. You will arrive at the reservoir on your right.