sign in sign up
<<
Home , Angelina National Forest, Baytown Nature Center, Big Bend National Park, Big Thicket, Boca Chica (Texas), Brazos Bend State Park

TRAVEL INFORMATION DIVISION PO BOX 149249 • AUSTIN, TX 78714-9249

© Department of Transportation 022001

All photos provided by the Texas Department of Transportation Communication Division and the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department. WE ARE JUST WILD ABOUT TEXAS. With the size of the state comes an amazing variety of climates and habitats—from swamps to and tropical areas to dry plains—leading to an equally remarkable diversity of wildlife. Texas hosts nearly 650 resident and migratory species. Other wildlife are found throughout national and state parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and private refuges. With numerous opportunities to seek out Texas wildlife, this guide will assist you in planning your travels. FAR encompasses an area from El Paso TEXAS WILDLIFE to Midland-Odessa and down to the ’s border with . Visitors will discover a blend of natural and cultural resources such as historic structures, forts, and TRAIL REGIONS ancient pictographs, as well as a chance to trek through the rugged Texas has more than 268,000 square miles of land and water, provid- outdoors. Watch for Montezuma quail, black-tailed jackrabbit, and ing a variety of wildlife-viewing opportunities. The Texas Parks and wren. Wildlife Department wildlife trail regions break up the state into more easily consumable portions and make it easier for visitors to find the HEART OF TEXAS covers an area from San Angelo hottest spots to explore outdoors. This brochure narrows the regions to and Sonora east to Austin and down to and a few select locations to give birders and wildlife lovers places to Laredo, including the . Enjoy watching begin exploring the state. Discover more about the trails at wildlife from to bat flights. Go into the heart of tpwd.texas.gov/wildlifetrails. Austin, the state capital, to see North America’s largest urban Mexican free-tailed population. Tour native nature centers, private , and PANHANDLE PLAINS, in the northern part of the state, state parks. For wildlife watching opportunities in more rugged terrain, includes expansive views along with the cities of Amarillo, head down to the brush country near Laredo. Lubbock, and Abilene. Get a glimpse of scenic , , PRAIRIES & PINEYWOODS extends from Wichita and river corridors, and keep an eye out in wide-open spaces Falls in the north, through the -Fort Worth metro- for , pronghorn, sandhill cranes, black-tailed prairie dogs, burrowing plex and into Waco and Temple, over to College Station, owls, and more. through Huntsville and Nacogdoches, and up to Tyler and

LET’S GET STARTED! In the pages that follow, find some TEXAS WILDLIFE of the common and not-so-common Texas critters.

NINE-BANDED ARMADILLO is AMERICAN BEAVER’S most distinctive BADGERS may look cute and shy, but BLACK BEAR were more common in a cat-sized, armored, insect- part is its tail, which resembles a large, they are ferocious fighters that should Texas prior to Anglo-American settle- eating mammal. The bony, flat, scaly paddle. Unlike its northern not be disturbed. Badgers live in a vari- ment, but they have declined since. A scaled shell of the armadillo rela­tives, the Texas beaver usually ety of habitats, but they are most com- small breeding population is found in protects it from attacks can move about during most of the monly found in open country. . by predators. winter season.

JAVELINA is a member of the MOUNTAIN LIONS are relatively un- MULE DEER are found in different hab- PORCUPINE won’t always be found peccary family. They are found common, secretive . These itats in the western part of the state. waddling through the brush. They do in South Texas brush country, large cats are carnivores that prey on a When running away, they tend to bounce well at climbing trees. When threat- Trans-Pecos’ desert grasslands, variety of animals. Some favorites with all four feet hitting the ground, un- ened, they’ll bristle their quills, stand and the ’s - include deer and wild hogs. like white-tailed deer. erect, and swat with their tails 2 juniper woodlands. in defense. Texarkana. View some of the few remaining Blackland Prairie areas The Texas Wildlife Trail Regions and experience the native habitat that once covered most of . Watch for grazing bison, scissor-tailed flycatchers, and more. Amarillo Spend time in exploring the and hardwood forest for a variety of raptors, warblers, woodpeckers, and other PANHANDLE woodland species. PLAINS Wichita Falls Texarkana The TEXAS COAST stretches from Beaumont and Lubbock down to the Rio Grande . Visit heron rook- Fort Worth Dallas eries and be wowed by the number of egrets, herons, and Abilene roseate spoonbills clearly visible from viewing platforms Longview El Paso Midland along the upper coast. Explore well-known birding sites and hidden Odessa PRAIRIES & gems throughout the Coastal Bend. Observe vibrant migratory birds San Angelo PINEYWOODS during spring and fall as well as over-wintering whooping cranes, all FAR WEST TEXAS Austin while enjoying year-round birding opportunities and events. Spend HEART Alpine OF TEXAS Houston some time getting to know the diverse landscapes of the Lower San Antonio . See some of the South Texas specialties such as TEXAS the green jay, great kiskadee, plain chachalaca, and the occasional COAST Mexican rarity. Corpus Laredo Christi

McAllen

Brownsville

BLACK-TAILED JACKRABBIT is a large, BLACK-TAILED PRAIRIE DOGS play COYOTE is a canine that usually has a is native to Texas and long-eared rabbit of the open grass- an important role in the prairie ecosys- gray or buff-colored coat and yellow is its most common resident. Gray lands and . They rely on speed tem. They serve as a food source for eyes with black pupils. It runs foxes are mostly nocturnal and to elude predators and flash the many predators and leaves vacant bur- with its tail down. Found throughout the live in dens but are able to white underside of their tail to alert rows to be used by other animals. state, they are usually spotted in the climb trees. other jackrabbits. early morning or before sunset.

PRONGHORN is the fastest mammal RINGTAIL is a cat-sized carnivore re- RIVER OTTER is an aquatic member are nocturnal crea- in North America. They live in open sembling a small fox with a long rac- of the weasel family, and it is a superb tures with coarse gray fur and grasslands. Pronghorns won’t usually coonlike tail. These animals are fairly swimmer and diver (able to remain un- black markings around their jump over fences but instead can common but are rarely seen because derwater for several minutes). They are eyes and bushy tails. Raccoons glide under fence wire raised by they are almost wholly nocturnal. currently found in the eastern half of live in greater numbers and conservation-minded landowners. the state. closer together in urban areas. 3 • SOME COMMON & NOT-SO-COMMON • TEXAS WILDLIFE

AMERICAN AVOCET is a long- AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHER is con- , our national symbol, is BLACK SKIMMER “skims” across the legged shorebird with a long, thin spicuous along seashores and salt one of our largest birds of prey. They surface of the water, dragging its lower bill that curves upward. It breeds marshes. True to its name, it specializes aren’t really bald, but their white- bill in order to catch small fish. They in the Panhandle and West Texas in feeding on bivalves (oysters, clams, feathered heads contrast with their are found on open sandy beaches, on on the shores of playas and along and mussels) and uses its brightly col- dark bodies. They are found year-round gravel or shell bars, and in salt marshes the Gulf Coast. ored bill to get at them. throughout Texas, usually near bodies along the coast. of water.

EASTERN BLUEBIRD and other GREAT BLUE HERONS, the largest of GREAT KISKADEES sit out in the open GREATER ROADRUNNERS—often bluebirds are native only to North the North American herons, are highly and attract attention with incessant kis- thought of as an iconic species of the America and were cherished adaptable and may be found through- ka-dee calls. Despite their small range in desert Southwest—are found through- throughout Texas’ history. Be- out the state near water. They usually the , this is one of the most out Texas, and it is expanding its range cause of its sky blue feathers, the appear blue-gray overall with a black widespread flycatchers in the Western north and eastward. They are aptly Navajo Indians considered this stripe over the eye. An all-white sub- Hemisphere. It is among the specialties named for their ability to run and walk. bird sacred. species can be found on the Gulf Coast. found in South Texas. Its prey includes bats, birds, and insects.

NORTHERN BOBWHITE and NORTHERN CARDINAL is found NORTHERN MOCKINGBIRD is the state NORTHERN PINTAIL is one of many scaled or “blue” quail are the throughout Texas. Legend has it the bird of Texas. Mockingbirds are one of duck species found in Texas during the most common species in Texas. brightly colored male inspired the the most commonly noticed birds in the winter. This elegant duck can be seen Texas is one of only four states name for this bird, reminding people state. Their varied, melodious song is in agricultural fields, coastal bays, and that can boast of having four of the red-robed cardinals in the repeated two to six times. lakes. Its unique long, sharp-looking tail 4 species of quail. Catholic Church. makes it easy to identify. “Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.” —ALBERT EINSTEIN

BROWN PELICAN’S 6-foot wingspread BUFF-BELLIED HUMMINGBIRD can BURROWING OWLS are a ground- CURVE-BILLED THRASHER is and 18-inch bill with a pouch on the un- be found in Texas year-round, espe- dwelling raptor. They typically nest in found in a range of habitats in derside make this a memorable sea- cially in the Rio Grande Valley and vacated prairie dog burrows where the Southwest. They usually give shore dweller. Recovered from the brink along the coast. The Turk’s cap and they may live sociably in colonies. a characteristic double whistle, of , the brown pelican is a liv- sages usually found in hummingbird Unlike many owls, which are nocturnal, whit-wheet, and other calls from ing symbol of successful wildlife con- gardens are attractive to this bird. these are active during the day. a high perch. servation efforts.

GREEN JAY has beautiful, vivid plum- HOODED MERGANSER has an appetite LAUGHING GULL is one of the most MOURNING DOVE is one of seven age. It is found in the southern portion for fish. A serrated bill helps mergan- common gulls on the Gulf Coast. They species of doves native to Texas. of the South Texas Plains. Both males sers catch and hold their slippery meals are sometimes seen far inland. They are They are common in suburban and and females have the same vivid col- before swallowing. When the male gets not shy and will fly in for handouts from agricultural areas. Their voice is a oring. They live in family groups. Green excited or agitated, he flares that crest. humans at parks and beaches. This mournful hooting call. When tak- jays eat insects, fruit, and seeds. gull’s long call sounds a bit like laughter. ing off, their wings make a distinc- tive whistling.

PAINTED BUNTING populations in PILEATED WOODPECKER is a noisy, PLAIN CHACHALACAS live in small PURPLE MARTIN is one of Texas appear healthy but elsewhere crow-sized bird with a prominent red groups in parts of the Lower Rio Grande eight species of swallows that have declined because of loss of riv- crest. It prefers extensive forests with Valley. Their loud cha-cha-lac-a call nest in Texas and North Ameri- erside thicket and illegal use in the pet mature trees for nesting. Their cavities is most commonly heard during the ca’s largest swallow. They lived trade. The males are brilliantly col- are often used by other animals. morning hours and breeding season. close to humans before the ored, and the females are lime green. first European settlers arrived. 5 • SOME COMMON & NOT-SO-COMMON • TEXAS WILDLIFE

RED-TAILED HAWK is the state’s RED-WINGED BLACKBIRDS with RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRDS TURKEY VULTURES are often asso- most widespread and abundant their red epaulets are commonly found migrate through Texas in the fall and ciated with death and decay, because bird of prey. They have rust- in Texas in rushes and cattails along mass along the coast before attempting they are carrion eaters. But by doing colored tails with whitish breasts. water edges during nesting season. to cross the . Humming- this, they actually help to keep our en- You may spot them sitting on top Sightings increase during winter. The birds are the only birds that are able to vironment clean. They are commonly of trees and utility poles or soar- mottled-brown females differ in plum- fly backward. found in open areas like roadsides, ing in the sky. age from the males. farm fields, and landfills.

AMERICAN BUMBLEBEE is one BORDERED PATCH butterflies are COMMON BUCKEYE butterflies like COMMON MESTRA are most com- of nine species documented in found near agricultural and other dis- open, sunny areas with low vegetation, monly found in southern Texas but may Texas. Bumblebees are recog- turbed areas. Their host plants are in such as fields, clearings, parks, yards, stray into northern areas at times. They nizable by their fuzzy yellow and the sunflower family. This plant family and gardens. The “eyes” on the wings like woodland edges, roadsides, and black bodies. Only a few bees also is a favorite nectar source for them. may serve to deter predators. It is in brush, and they tend to stay near host are as large and hairy as This species can be found year-round in the Nymphalidae family. plants, such as noseburn in the the bumblebee. South Texas. spurge family.

MONARCHS find Texas an im- PRAYING MANTIS is named for its QUEEN butterfly resembles its close QUESTION MARK butterflies live portant state in their migration prayerful look when it holds its front legs relative the Monarch butterfly, but it is in wooded areas, parks, and open because it is situated between together. These green or brown insect smaller and the base color of the wings spaces. They are named for a silver the breeding grounds in the north are often camouflaged by their sur- is a darker brown. They also migrate mark on the underside of the hind and the overwintering areas in roundings allowing them to wait for or but not as far as Monarchs. wing that looks like a question mark. 6 Mexico. stalk their prey. “In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” —JOHN MUIR

AMERICAN ALLIGATOR is common RED-EARED SLIDER is Texas’ most , or “horny TEXAS TORTOISE is the smallest in swamps, rivers, , and marshes, common aquatic turtle. These tur- toad,” is a flat-bodied and fierce- of the North American tortoises. It and sometimes urban and suburban tles get their name from a broad red looking lizard. They can be found in arid can be found in south-central ponds. Typically found in fresh water, stripe behind their eye and their habit and semiarid habitats in open areas. Texas and southward into the they can tolerate brackish water as of sliding off rocks and logs when star- They dig for nesting and insulation pur- Mexican states of , Nuevo well. Once verging on extinction, they tled. They are cold-blooded and spend poses and are commonly found in loose Leon, and Tamaulipas. have made a tremendous comeback. hours lounging in the sun. sand or loamy .

DUNG BEETLE colors range from EASTERN TIGER SWALLOWTAIL is a GREEN LYNX SPIDER is an active GULF FRITTILARY takes its name brown to black, and the beetles can very large butterfly with “tiger stripes.” hunting species, so it does not build a from the fact that migrating flights be dull or have a shiny metallic fin- Males are always yellow, but females web but may use a dragline for drop- of the butterflies are sometimes ish, sometimes called rainbow scar- may also be black. They tend to fly high ping or climbing. Named for its vibrant seen over the Gulf of Mexico. abs. This beetle is important for helping around treetops and near . color and style of hunting prey, the During the summer, look for the fertilize and aerate , while reducing They mainly are found in eastern Texas. spiderlings are born orange and turn caterpillars feeding on the leaves fecal material in nature. green several weeks later. of passionflower vines.

RED ADMIRAL butterflies are black TAWNY EMPEROR is a medium-size WHITE-LINED SPHINX MOTH is large ZEBRA HELICONIAN can be with white spots and red bands. They butterfly, usually found near hackberry and resembles a hummingbird, hovering found all year from prefer sap, fermenting fruit, and bird trees. These trees are the host plant for while sipping nectar from tubular flow- to the Gulf Coast and occasion- droppings, taking nectar only if the the caterpillar. A similar species is the ers. They are common throughout most ally north to the Dallas-Fort Worth others aren’t available. Hackberry Emperor. of Texas. area. They are fairly long-lived and feed on pollen and nectar. 7 COASTAL HAVEN

isitors flock to the Gulf Coast as a popular destination for birding and viewing aquatic life. The coastal area from Corpus Christi to V Orange takes in an astounding array of birds and aquatic life both inland and among the various bays and the Laguna Madre. This area is known for birding hot spots like High Island and Bolivar Flats and as the wintering grounds for whooping cranes at Aransas . Travelers will find opportunities to see sandhill cranes, bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, alligators, lightning whelk, and other air and aquatic creatures. ROSEATE SPOONBILL tpwd.texas.gov/wildlifetrails/txcoast

Port Aransas birding sites offer popular locations to see coastal bird in the small wooded areas. Spring and fall also are great times to spot species. Opportunities to view birds up-close in their natural habi- alligators sunning themselves on the banks. Early-morning risers may tats—like , inlets, and beaches—draw birders and wildlife catch sight of a . fws.gov/refuge/anahuac photographers. While the habitat continues its recovery after Hurricane West of , Sabine Woods Bird Sanctuary, owned by Texas Harvey, some infrastructure at the sites will take more time. Contact the Ornithological Society, features coastal woodlands, a habitat partic- Port Aransas Chamber of Commerce, portaransas.org/play/birding, ularly attractive to neotropical migrants. Birders may find warblers, for more information about their bird viewing sites. tanagers, orioles, vireos, and flycatchers. goldentriangleaudubon. High Island hosts four Houston Audubon sanctuaries—Smith , org/focus-areas Boy Scout Woods, Eubanks Woods, and S.E. Gast Red Bay. As the At Cattail Marsh near Beaumont, explore the 520-foot boardwalk that largest, Smith Oaks Sanctuary features 177.33 acres of oak mottes, extends over the marsh with two covered viewing platforms for watch- ponds, wetlands, and coastal prairie, plus a rookery. The Rookery is a ing one of the most active birding areas of the 900-acre wetlands. It favored roosting and nesting place for herons, egrets, cormorants, and provides refuge to a variety of aquatic mammals and more than 250 spoonbills. Boy Scout Woods offers a combination of hackberry/oak species of birds. The marsh also features more than 8 miles of gravel motte, coastal prairie, and wetlands. It also has extensive boardwalks levee roads along the banks of Hildebrandt and Willow Marsh bayous. for wheelchair-bound birders. The year-round sanctuaries are popular beaumontcvb.com/things-to-do/cattail-marsh during spring migration, mid-March to mid-May, and fall migration, ’s combination of woodlands, river, lakes, September to mid-October. houstonaudubon.org/sanctuaries ponds, and grassland creates a habitat for more than 300 documented Bolivar Flats is internationally recognized as a globally important bird species, 21 species of and amphibians, and a variety of shorebird area. Its salt marsh, mud flats, and beach environments mammals. Visitors will commonly see white-tailed deer, nine-banded create a buffet for birds, crabs, and small fish. American avocets and armadillo, , and raccoons. They may also find river hundreds of shorebird species share the area with massive flocks of otters, , and foxes. tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/brazos-bend terns, gulls, and herons. Widespread patches of Spartina grass are Near the Brazosport Area, San Bernard and Brazoria national wild- prime habitat for wading birds. Walking in vegetated dunes and marsh- life refuges are part of the Texas Mid-Coast Refuge Complex. San es is discouraged. houstonaudubon.org/sanctuaries Bernard is a first stop, after flying over the Gulf, for migrating shore- Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge protects coastal marsh and prai- birds, including the endangered piping plover, who share the beach rie for waterfowl, shorebirds, and waterbirds, while providing habitat with nesting Kemp’s ridley sea turtles. Both refuges provide habitats for neotropical migratory songbirds seeking land after crossing the enticing to wading and shorebirds with freshwater marshes, ponds, Gulf. Birders will find roseate spoonbills, egrets, white-faced ibis, and and winding bayous inland. Visitors may spot alligators sunning them- mottled ducks. Between October and March, as many as 27 species of selves on the banks. River otters may be spotted at Brazoria. ducks, along with flocks of snow geese, may stop there. During spring fws.gov/southwest/refuges/texas/texasmidcoast and fall migrations, warblers and other songbirds can be seen or heard 8 LISTENING FOR birds can help in locating and potentially identifying a species before seeing it. Some options to help learn to identify birds by their calls are listening to the recordings at xeno-canto.org or downloading an app like Larkwire, which makes a game of connecting birds with their sounds.

GOOSE ISLAND State Park, north of Corpus Christi, provides an additional coastal destination for bird and wildlife watching.

99 VALLEY HOT SPOTS

eople from all over the world venture to the Rio Grande Valley, a world-class bird- ing destination, to observe some of the approximately 500 documented resident Pand migratory species. Some migratory birds venture no further north than the Valley, so visitors have an opportunity to see birds that aren’t spotted anywhere else within the United States. It is also an outstanding butterfly destination. The Valley stretches from Falcon to South Padre Island and is comprised of Star, Hidalgo, Willacy, and Cameron counties. Other parts of South Texas like King and Laredo also offer not-to-miss opportunities for wildlife viewing. tpwd.texas.gov/wildlifetrails/ltc RED CROWNED PARROT

Santa Ana National Wildlife The Valley Nature Center, also near Weslaco, features butterfly Refuge near Alamo sits at an eco- gardens, bird feeding stations, a , small ponds, and a diversity logical crossroads of subtropics, of native plants. The center attracts a variety of wildlife, including coast, plains, and desert. Visitors malachite and pixie butterflies, plain chachalacas, great kiskadees, may spot green jays, chachalacas, buff-bellied hummingbirds, Texas tortoises, and several lizard and and great kiskadees, as well as amphibian species. valleynaturecenter.org the rare Altamira oriole, hook- King Ranch is an internationally important bird area and home to the billed kite, and gray hawk. Zebra largest known population of ferruginous pygmy-owls in the United longwings, Julias, and Mexican States. Visitors can take birding and wildlife tours that range from two bluewings are among the butter- hours to three days. The ranch is home to northern bobwhite quail, flies found within the refuge. People might even be lucky enough to javelina, and , along with resident and migratory birds like spot a rare, nonvenomous indigo snake, jaguarondi, or ocelot. white-tailed hawk, great kiskadee, green jay, and Audubon’s oriole. fws.gov/refuge/santa_ana king-ranch.com/visit/our-tours/nature-tours Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge features a blend of sub- Lake Casa Blanca International State Park, near Laredo, hosts tropical, coastal, and desert habitats. The refuge has hosted migrating many South and West Texas bird species. The tiny white-collared seed- waterfowl, sandhill cranes, redhead ducks, neotropical songbirds, eater is the park’s most prized bird. Park staff will lead tours to look for hummingbirds, and raptors. Look for javalina, as well as the harder to seedeaters by request. You are likely to see black-tailed jackrabbits and locate gray fox, long-tailed weasel, Mexican free-tailed bats, and oce- cottontails in the park, as well as javelina, Mexican ground squirrel, and lots. Visitors may spot Texas tortoise, six-lined racerunner lizards, and various bat species. Rio Grande leopard appear after heavy rains. bullsnakes, plus the rarer Texas indigo snake, Texas horned lizard, and A variety of butterflies visit the park, including red admirals in late win- Kemp’s ridley sea turtles. fws.gov/refuge/laguna_atascosa ter and early spring. tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/lake-casa-blanca Sabal Palm Sanctuary near Brownsville protects some of the last Falcon State Park sits on the southern end of the Falcon International Sabal Palm forest, which used to grow profusely along the edge of the Reservoir north of Roma. Look for great kiskadee, vermilion flycatcher, Rio Grande. Visitors will find nature trails with wildlife viewing areas, a and Couch’s kingbird in the woodlands near the shore and pyrrhuloxia, wheelchair-accessible observation deck overlooking the Rio Grande, verdin, and black-throated sparrow in the brushy areas. The butterfly and weekly guided bird walks. sabalpalmsanctuary.org garden attracts a variety of species, including some rare and extraordi- Frontera Audubon Center in Weslaco features Tamaulipan Thornscrub nary. tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/falcon forest, a butterfly garden, wetlands, and ponds, as well as the Skaggs Choke State Park consists of two units—Calliham and South House, a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark built in 1927. The site offers Shore—northwest of Corpus Christi. The park is a stopover for migrat- weekly bird walks. Some of the rarities spotted here have included blue ing birds and is recognized as a special place of importance by the bunting and crimson-collared grosbeak. fronteraaudubon.org Bureau of Reclamation and American Birding Association. The park has a birding trail. 10 tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/choke-canyon BINOCULARS CAN help you make more of the experi- ence. Try to borrow a pair when starting out, or if you are ready to buy, see Intro- duction to Birdwatching at tpwd.texas.gov/publications for buying tips.

ATASCOSA NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE has the most variety of birds of any refuge in the National Wildlife Refuge System.

1111 VERDANT OASIS GREEN TREE

he lush greenery of East Texas and the prairies of North Texas call to nature lovers. This region includes the westernmost extension of the forests and woodlands of the Tsoutheastern United States. Stretching from Texarkana to the Panhandle and south to Huntsville and the northern edge of the Hill Country, this area encompasses prairies, lakes, swamps, marshes, hardwood forests, and a once densely wooded area known as the Big Thicket that used to span more than 3.5 million acres. Some of the region’s inhabitants include woodpeckers, American alligators, turtles, and a variety of amphibians. tpwd.texas.gov/wildlifetrails/ppw

The Big Thicket great viewing of resident and neotropical migratory birds. During the near Kountze protects an incredible spring and summer expect to see woodpeckers, eastern kingbird, and- coexisting biodiversity transitioning vireos and warblers. Keep an eye out for squirrels, foxes, armadillos, moist eastern hardwood forest, south- rabbits, and beavers. tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/daingerfield western desert, southeastern swamp, The Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge along the northern shore and central prairie vegetation types. of Lake Worth preserves native habitat. Find traditional grassland Four of the five known types of U.S. residents like black-tailed prairie dogs, bison (spring to fall), northern carnivorous plants are found in the harriers, and native sparrows. Seek wading birds and waterfowl near Big Thicket. nps.gov/bith the lake, and look for red-eyed vireo, yellow-billed cuckoo, and pile- The Roy E. Larsen Sandyland ated woodpecker in the woodland areas. The interpretive center holds Sanctuary near Kountze houses one educational events and displays local wildlife. fwnaturecenter.org RED COCKADED of the last . WOODPECKER Within the diverse mix of forest, prairie, and wetland habitats at the Visitors can hike, bird, study nature, Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area, you can find or paddle Village Creek. Watch for eastern woodland birds along the river otters, peregrine falcons, bobcats, white-tailed deer, mink, wild nature trail. nature.org turkeys, painted buntings, dragonflies, and butterflies. The birding Between Huntsville, Conroe, Cleveland, and Richards, the Sam checklist tops 280 documented species, including scissor-tailed fly- Houston National Forest is one of four in Texas. It is home to the catchers, eastern meadowlarks, and red-shouldered hawks. Hike the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker. Nearby and the trails or check the calendar for guided nature and bird walks. llela.org forest provide wintering habitat for the endangered bald eagle. The The National Grasslands and Lyndon B. Johnson National Stubblefield Recreation Area is a popular birding spot. Other wildlife Grasslands are northeast and northwest, respectively, of the Dallas- include butterflies, dragonflies, gray fox, white-tailed deer, squirrel, Fort Worth metroplex. They are popular for , camping, fishing, and bobcat. fs.usda.gov/detail/texas/about-forest/districts hunting, horseback riding, mountain biking, photography, and wildlife State Park contains a diverse array of habitats. Wildlife viewing. Watch for small mammals, , bobcats, red fox, water- includes waterfowl, alligators, turtles, frogs, snakes, raccoons, minks, fowl, bobwhite quail, turkey, and songbirds. In the winter, look for nutria, beavers, armadillos, and white-tailed deer. Hike through the winter raptors and sparrows. Neotropical migrants visit the area in the pine forest seeking brown-headed nuthatch, northern flicker, wood spring. fs.usda.gov/detail/texas/about-forest/districts thrush, American redstart, hairy woodpecker, and American robin, or The Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge manages areas of forest, watch for northern bobwhite, eastern bluebird, and indigo bunting in tallgrass prairie, riverine bottomland hardwoods, and wetland habi- the open grassy areas. tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/caddo-lake tats. Geese, ducks, and other migratory waterfowl stop or winter there. encompasses Lake Daingerfield and is From spring through late fall look for dragonflies, butterflies, and other known for its colorful fall foliage. Fall also brings thousands of migra- insects. Other wildlife include white-tailed deer, bobcats, river otters, tory broad-winged hawks. The hiking trail at Dogwood Camp provides turtles, fox squirrels, and coyotes. fws.gov/refuge/hagerman 12 LAKE ARROWHEAD State Park hosts a black- tailed prairie dog town. They can be skittish. Stay still and at a distance for entertaining viewing op- portunities. Keep an eye out for burrowing owls.

GREAT BLUE HERON is a commonly seen inhabitant of . A birding checklist is available at park headquarters.

1313 HEARTLAND HABITAT BOBCAT

he rolling landscape of the Texas Hill Country comprises part of this region, which stretches to West Texas, as far south as Laredo, east of Austin, and north of San TAngelo. It includes the geographic center of Texas and the state capital, and it is the only area bordered by all of the other wildlife trail regions. It is popular in the spring when wildflowers are in bloom and equally liked by spring and fall migrating birds as well as some resident species. The region contains protected habitats of the endangered golden-cheeked warbler and black-capped vireo. tpwd.texas.gov/wildlifetrails/hot

Balcones Canyonlands National selflies, and butterflies. hornsbybend.org , east of Marble Wildlife Refuge Near Cedar Creek and about 13 miles from Austin, the LCRA Falls, protects Ashe juniper McKinney Roughs Nature Park features outdoor and river recreation important to the golden-cheeked with 18 miles of multiuse hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails. warbler and shin oaks needed by Resident wildlife include greater roadrunner, belted kingfisher, eastern the black-capped vireo. The refuge screech-owl, black-chinned hummingbird, gray fox, and rabbits. During hosts 245 bird species, and trails spring and fall migrations, birders look for a variety of warblers. GOLDEN-CHEEKED include overlooks and photo blinds. WARBLER lcra.org/parks/pages/mckinney-roughs-nature-park.aspx Seasonally watch for black-capped vireos from the Shin Oak Observation Deck and golden-cheeked The Eaton Hill Nature Center & Preserve in Sonora offers wildlife warblers from Warbler Vista and Sunset Deck. fws.gov/refuge/ watching, hiking trails, picnicking, and interpretive exhibits. Birders balcones_canyonlands may find black-capped vireos, painted bunting, Bell’s vireo, scrub jay, hooded oriole, cactus wren, and Rufous hummingbirds. Other animals Lost Maples State Natural Area north of Vanderpool is known include jackrabbits, cottontails, fox, rock squirrels, lizards, frogs, and for its Uvalde bigtooth maples and fabulous fall color, but it is also insects. eatonhillnaturecenter.org a premier wildlife-viewing destination. Habitats include canyons, plateau grasslands, wooded slopes, and clear streams. The Located 20 minutes from downtown San Antonio, the Mitchell Lake black-capped vireo and endangered golden-cheek warbler nest there Audubon Center seeks to connect people with nature through con- in the spring and early summer. Visitors may find green kingfisher, servation and community education. The location’s lake, wetlands zone-tailed hawk, canyon wren, and summer tanager, along with gray and ponds, brush land, grassland, and mudflat provide habitats for a fox, white-tailed deer, armadillo, , bobcat, rock squirrel, and large variety of reptiles, amphibians, insects, mammals, and birds. The javelina. tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/lost-maples center offers a birding tour on most Saturdays with a beginner focus at the tour on the fourth Saturday each month. Migration brings warblers, Adjacent to the South near Junction, South Llano River ducks, and assorted shorebirds. Egrets and herons have a rookery on includes 2 miles of river frontage and acres of wooded bot- State Park the northeast part of the lake. mitchelllake.audubon.org tomland. Use the observation blinds to watch turkeys, painted bunting, sparrows, and spotted towhee. Native species like wood ducks, jackrab- Cooks Slough Nature Park near Uvalde offers some of the best birding bits, javelinas, foxes, beavers, bobcats, cottontails, and armadillos reside in its area with 25 acres of wetland, two wildlife viewing stations, in the park. Feeders, flowers, and frostweed plants draw hummingbirds and five shaded rest stations along the trails. Watch for wood ducks, and butterflies. tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/south-llano-river anhinga, herons, and cormorants near the water and green jays and ver- milion flycatchers in the trees. visituvalde.com/uvalde_attractions/ The Hornsby Bend Bird Observatory is a program at the Hornsby Bend Biosolids Management Plant that features ponds with hiking A former U.S. military fort, Fort Clark Springs is now a gated resort trails. Bottomland forest, brush, and riparian wetlands harbor more community and popular birding spot near Brackettville. Visit than 360 bird species and other wildlife. Shorebirds congregate during the bird viewing blind or check out the birding trails, which migration, three species of ducks breed at the site, and osprey and connect birders with most of the species spotted in the area. peregrine falcon winter there. Visitors will also find dragonflies, dam- fortclark.com/birding.html 14 OF THE NEARLY 360 bird species that breed in Texas, the golden-cheeked warbler is the only one that nests only in Texas.

MCKINNEY FALLS STATE PARK is a popular Hill Country destination for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

1515 BOUNTIFUL PLAINS

t the southern end of the Great Plains, the features beautiful terrain from expansive grasslands to impressive canyons, including the second largest can- Ayon in the United States. The region stretches from Abilene to the and borders. It offers important habitat for bison, prairie dogs, Texas horned lizards, and burrowing owls. While traveling the scenic roads, look for white-tailed deer, pronghorn, sand- GREATER PRAIRIE CHICKEN hill cranes, and coyotes. tpwd.texas.gov/wildlifetrails/php

Some of the best remaining shortgrass Caprock Canyons State Park is home to the Texas State Bison Herd. prairie in the United States exists in Other wildlife include mule deer, pronghorn, bobcats, jackrabbits, the Buffalo Lake National Wildlife porcupines, gray foxes, black-tailed prairie dogs, lizards, 30 snakes, Refuge. It is an important habitat for and more than 175 species of birds. Shorebirds like avocet, greater and pollinators like bees and butterflies, as lesser yellowlegs, willet, and various sandpipers and warblers appear well as for black-tailed prairie dog, during spring migration. During the summer, Clarity Tunnel along the burrowing owl, Cassin’s and lark Trailway is home to half-a-million Mexican free-tailed bats. Tunnel sparrows, and bald and golden eagles. tours are available Fridays from June through August. tpwd.texas.gov/ More than 300 migratory bird spe- state-parks/caprock-canyons cies have been documented. In the Nearby, State Park is the second-largest state spring, look for , osprey, SCISSOR-TAILED park in Texas. It is home to the Palo Duro mouse and Texas horned Swainson’s hawk, and northern harrier. FLYCATCHER lizard, plus wild turkeys, bobcats, coyotes, roadrunners, snakes, lizards, fws.gov/refuge/buffalo_lake , and more. In the wooded areas along the Prairie Dog The 576-acre Lake Marvin Unit of the Black Kettle National Town Fork of the Red River, visitors may see woodpeckers, flycatchers, Grasslands Recreation Area is a premier birding spot. Look for and other woodland birds. A bird blind behind the Trading Post pro- ducks in the winter along with eared grebe, horned grebe, and red- vides an opportunity to watch or photograph birds. On the rim near tailed hawk. In summer, seek brown thrasher, northern mockingbird, headquarters, look for members of the official state longhorn herd that Carolina chickadee, tufted titmouse, warbling vireo, blue grosbeak, and live in the park. tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/palo-duro-canyon indigo bunting. Several kinds of sparrow, eastern and western king- The Attwater Prairie Chicken National Wildlife Refuge protects the birds, western meadowlark, roadrunner, and common nighthawk are coastal prairie and is managed for a specific endangered often seen. fs.usda.gov/detail/cibola species—a ground-dwelling grouse called the Attwater’s prairie chicken. The oldest national wildlife refuge in Texas, Muleshoe National Other species that benefit include ducks, white-tailed hawks, anihinga, Wildlife Refuge protects never-developed shortgrass prairie. Between geese, sandhill cranes, and sparrows. Bobcats, nine-banded armadil- fall and spring, the refuge hosts one of the largest concentrations of los, and coyotes are nocturnal, but visitors might see white-tailed deer, lesser sandhill cranes in North America, along with a variety of migrat- 13-lined ground squirrels, and black-tailed jackrabbits during the day. ing ducks and shorebirds. Visitors will find golden eagles, Swainson’s American alligators, spiny softshell turtles, bullfrogs, and various snakes hawks, jackrabbits, bull snakes, prairie dogs, badgers, porcupine, rab- enjoy the refuge. fws.gov/refuge/attwater_prairie_chicken bits, coyote, bobcat, skunk, and burrowing owls. Lubbock Lake National Historic Landmark, an archaeological and fws.gov/refuge/muleshoe natural history preserve in Lubbock, contains evidence of a complete north of Amarillo sur- sequence of human existence during the past 11,500 years. Its location rounds the largest body of water within a 200-mile radius in the along the Central Flyway makes it a good place to scout during migra- Panhandle. Its habitat attracts waterfowl year-round along with road- tions. It is the best site to look for desert birds such as Say’s phoebe and runner, wild turkey, bald eagle, and great horned owl. The area is also sage thrasher. Environmental restoration has enhanced the habitat for home to mule deer, mountain lion, bobcat, cottontail, muskrat, red fox, , black-tailed prairie dog, gray fox, coyote, and both 16 Texas horned lizard, and ornate box turtle. nps.gov/lamr white-tailed and mule deer. lubbocklake.musm.ttu.edu TEXAS STATE BISON HERD at Caprock Canyons State Park descended from bison rescued by Charles and Mary Ann Goodnight. It is one of five foundation herds that prevented the species’ extinction.

AT CAPROCK CANYONS State Park, visitors find roaming bison, 90 miles of trails for hiking and biking, and bats flying.

1717 WILDLIFE WEST est Texas features amazing scenery from to soaring mountains. Encompassing everything south of the WPanhandle from west of the Hill Country to El Paso, it is also home to three sky islands—Davis, Guadalupe, and —where the extreme contrast between the lowlands and peaks create uniquely biodiverse locations. The desert may not seem like a go-to spot for birding and wildlife viewing, but it is home to a wide range of animals. Both Montezuma quail and desert bighorn sheep had disappeared from Texas but were reintroduced and can be found in the Davis Mountains and Big Bend, respectively. tpwd.texas. gov/wildlifetrails/fwtx BIGHORN SHEEP

Big Bend National Park marks the northernmost range of many plants and black-tailed jackrabbits at twilight and kit fox, mountain lion, and animals, such as the Mexican long-nosed bat. Birds of Santa Elena bobcat, badger, and about 16 species of bats at night. Rocky canyons Canyon include rock and canyon wren, Say’s and black phoebe, and are home to ringtails, rock squirrels, and various reptiles. Birdlife is cliff swallow (in summer). In the Chisos Mountains, look for the Colima abundant with owls, roadrunners, golden eagles, red-tailed hawks, warbler, whip-poor-will, hummingbirds, acorn woodpecker, Hutton’s mountain chickadees, and hummingbirds. nps.gov/gumo vireo, and painted redstart. nps.gov/bibe Rio Bosque Wetlands Park provides an important bird habitat Big Bend Ranch State Park hosts more than 300 birds, including with 244 recorded species. Look for resident species such as the scaled quail, greater roadrunner, verdin, black-throated sparrow, and Gambel’s quail, Harris’s hawk, burrowing owl, verdin, crissal thrasher, pyrrhuloxia. Common spring and fall migrants include bighorn sheep, and various raptors. Summer nesting species include Bell’s vireo, blue vireos, swallows, several western warblers, and tanagers. Other park grosbeak, yellow-breasted chat, and painted bunting. riobosque.org residents include mountain lions, mule deer, javelina, gray foxes, kan- Feather Lake Wildlife Sanctuary, a 43.5-acre stormwater detention garoo rats, jackrabbits, desert cottontails, lizards, and occasional black basin for the city of El Paso, features wetlands, along with riparian bears. tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/big-bend-ranch woodlands and desert scrub-grasslands. The site has hosted more than Davis Mountains State Park hosts more than 260 species of birds. 220 different bird species. During migration, birders may spot herons, The park features a bird blind with an enclosed viewing station, egrets, and white-faced ibis. The lake is home to muskrats, spiny soft- shielded outside patio, and a watering and feeding station. Watch for shell turtles, and pond sliders, plus ducks and waterfowl in the winter. Montezuma quail, Bell’s vireo, acorn woodpeckers, cactus wren, and trans-pecos-audubon.com/feather-lake.html canyon towhee. Stop by the interpretive center for information. Other Birders visit the Seminole Canyon State Park and Historic Site to animals include canyon tree frogs, mule deer, mountain lions, jave- look for various wrens, white-throated swift, and zone-tailed hawk. linas, and black-tailed rattlesnakes. tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/ White-tailed deer, raccoons, armadillos, foxes, bobcats, and javeli- davis-mountains na roam the park. Black bear, mountain lion, and badgers occasionally Nearby, the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center, in the Davis make an appearance. The descent into the canyon is steep. Mountains foothills, has a handicap accessible bird blind that offers tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/seminole-canyon an enclosed viewing area. Feeders attract black-chinned, rufous, and An 87-acre urban playa lake, the I-20 Wildlife Preserve and Jenna broad-tailed hummingbirds. The center offers 5 miles of hiking trails, a Welch Nature Study Center provides important habitat for birds and desert botanical garden, a cactus and succulent greenhouse, a heritage wildlife near Midland. Its trails include bird blinds, photography blinds, exhibit, and a geologic timeline display. cdri.org and a hawk tower. Birders may spot osprey, red-tailed hawk, red-winged Home to Texas’ four highest peaks, National blackbirds, swamp sparrows, and yellow warblers. The site includes a Park spans a variety of ecosystems, including Chihuahuan Desert, 3,200-square-foot butterfly garden. i20wildlifepreserve.org rocky canyons, and mountaintop forests. Look for mule deer, javelinas

18 AMPHIBIANS ARE rarely seen in the desert, mak- ing the Rio Grande leop- ard frog a delightfully unexpected sight near WHILE EXPLORING Big Bend spring-fed pools in McK- Ranch State Park, keep an eye ittrick Canyon and at out for wildlife from lizards to Manzanita and Smith black bears. springs in Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

1919 WORLD-CLASS BIRDING

irders find a wealth of enjoyment at the nine World Birding Center locations in the Rio Grande Valley. Each Blocation presents a singular experience of size and habitat, as well as a potential opportunity to spot hundreds of species during a single visit. A joint project of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Rio Grande Valley communities, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service conceptualized in 1997, the WBC’ strives to protect native habitat while increasing under- standing and appreciation of birds and wildlife. theworldbirdingcenter.com EDINBURG SCENIC WETLANDS Visitors to McAllen’s Quinta Mazatlan, a Spanish-revival style man- sion and 20-acre property turned birding habitat, may see kiskadees, clay-colored thrushes, green jays, plain chachalacas, common paura- ques, thrashers, buff-bellied hummingbirds, and olive sparrows, plus center or explore the trails to see alligators and other wildlife. tropical migrants. The location also protects a small part of the Valley’s Colorful native plants and water resources combine to create the original Tamaulipan thorn forest and other native plants. 40-acre Edinburg Scenic Wetlands. Look for waterfowl and shore- South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center features an open birds like the green kingfisher, least grebe, and American avocet, expanse of 50 acres with a multistory building. Climb to the top of the which are viewable from platforms overlooking freshwater lagoons. tower for a 360-degree look over the island or take the boardwalk At least 13 species of ducks winter at the wetlands. Amenities include through the wetlands. The island is a first landfall for birds traveling winding paths, waterside observation platforms, and an Interpretive from Southern Mexico and northern . Look for war- Center. Telescopes and interpretive audio stations accommodate blers, tanagers, orioles, and thrushes. Wetlands harbor a range of close-up inspections and floor-to-ceiling windows for climate- shorebirds and waterfowl. Endangered species such as the brown peli- controlled viewing. can, piping plover, and peregrine falcon may be spotted. The Old Hidalgo Pumphouse not only serves as a nature conser- Resaca de la Palma State Park in Brownsville offers the larg- vation site but also tells the story of the site’s steam-driven irrigation est native habitat property of the WBCs. Colorful neotropical and pumps. Native plants like huisache, Texas ebony, anacua, and mesquite nearctic migrants—like the summer tanager, American redstart, and attract Valley birds and butterflies. Tropical kingfishers like the com- yellow-breasted chat—have been noted here. When resaca levels are bination of water and woodland along the abandoned intake channel. controlled to benefit wildlife, species like the least grebe, black-bellied Watch for Valley specialties like great kiskadee, green jay, clay-colored whistling duck, and various herons, as well as migrating waterfowl, robin, and Altamira oriole. See various colorful warblers, kinglets, and visit. The property’s dense ground-level vegetation attracts olive spar- gnatcatchers in winter and green monk parakeets year-round. row, long-billed thrasher, and white-eyed vireo. The 797-acre Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park near Mission Harlingen’s Colorado provides much-needed breeding is the WBC headquarters. The park preserves some of the few remain- grounds for many Valley specialties like the common pauraque, ing riparian woodlands along the Rio Grande. From November to groove-billed ani, long-billed thrasher, and olive sparrow. The WBC is March, look for green jays and plain chachalacas near the bird feeding the part of the Arroyo Colorado that runs from Hugh Ramsey Nature stations, and during spring and fall migrations, see broad-winged and Park to the Harlingen Thicket. Endangered red-crowned parrots are Swainson’s hawks. Other birds to look for include gray hawk, white- found here, and during migration periods, the two sites are an import- tipped dove, groove-billed ani, ringed kingfisher, and Altamira oriole. ant stopover for neotropical/nearctic travelers seeking food and rest. The smallest site is Roma Bluffs, which overlooks the Rio Grande. Estero Llano Grande’s 230-plus acres in Weslaco feature a varied Part of a national historic district, the Roma Bluffs includes a river- landscape. In late summer, hundreds of waders and shorebirds visit. side nature area of three acres. Stands of thorny Texas Ebony and Migrating waterfowl enjoy the park’s narrow, shallow lake. Woodland mesquite-prickly pear brush provide habitat for neotropical birds and thorn scrub harbor Valley specialties such as the groove-billed ani found nowhere else in the United States. Valley specialties like the and Altamira oriole. Visitors may even see rare red-crowned parrots great kiskadee and plain chachalaca, along with Altamira orioles and and green parakeets. Sit on the covered viewing deck at the visitor clay-colored robins, are popular visitors.

20 VIEWING & SAFETY TIPS Wildlife resident birds. Time of day is Are Watching important, too. Dawn and dusk We’ve all had it happen: You are usually the best times to look up just in time to see an spot wildlife. dive out of sight. Most animals sense us long before What Should You Do? we notice them. They size us • Move as quietly as possible. Or, up and decide whether to stay, choose a comfortable spot and defend themselves, or flee. remain still. Try to blend into an animal’s • Blend with your environ- surroundings. ment—dress in earth tones and • Don’t try to touch the wildlife. sure the vehicle is completely limit scented products. EUROPEAN Notify site authorities if you out of the path of traffic. HONEY BEE • Leave pets at home. find an injured or stranded • Never feed wildlife. animal. Want to Learn More? • An Introduction to Bird • Do not interfere with wildlife • Respect private property; ask Watching: tpwd.texas.gov/ during mating, predation, or permission first. publications/pwdpubs/media/ other natural behavior. • Pack food and water for your pwd_bk_w7000_0476.pdf • Keep a respectful distance. own personal consumption. • U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service: • Preserve habitat by following • Take a friend along. Large medium.com/usfws/wildlife- “leave no trace” principles. groups are likely to disturb the watching-tips-5dd88963eff3 wildlife, but small groups or • Bring your zoom camera lens • National Audubon Soci- a companion make the finds or binoculars to help maintain ety: audubon.org/news/ more exciting. Slow Down & Discover a proper distance. safety-tips-better-birding The ultimate wildlife-watching • For a closer look at wildlife • National Parks Service: experience is viewing animals Take Safety Precautions while driving, choose a safe nps.gov/subjects/watching without interrupting their nor- It is easy to get caught up in the area to pull over, and make wildlife/7ways.htm mal activities. You’ll have a excitement of spotting a bird or chance not only to identify the animal. You may become liter- animal but also to identify with ally lost in the moment. The fol- it. Learn about wildlife habits lowing are a few reminders to Snake Safety CAUTION help keep your trip comfortable and habitat before venturing Leave us alone. Snakes play into nature. A little preparation and enjoyable. an important role in the eco- can go a long way and make • Dress for the weather and system. Of the 113 species and the viewing experience a posi- be prepared for inclement subspecies found in Texas, only tive one. weather. 15 percent are venomous (rat- tlesnakes, copperheads, cot- DON’T TOUCH! When Should You Go? • Be mindful of the heat and the tonmouths, and coral snakes). Each season in Texas presents potential for dehydration. Be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking a different occasion for view- • A wide-brimmed hat, long through tall grass, along rock outcroppings, and climb- ing wildlife. Spring and fall offer sleeves, and pants help protect ing over logs. If encountered, leave the snake alone. Freeze, chances to see migrating birds. you from the sun and insects. check your surroundings, give the snake a chance to retreat, Winter is a great time to look or, if the snake does not move, back away slowly. for birds, especially along the • Always watch where you coast and in South Texas. Sum- are stepping and note your For more information, visit tpwd.texas.gov/education/ mer brings a different group of surroundings. resources/texas-junior-naturalists/snakes-alive. 21 WATCHING WILDLIFE

Watch Bats Take Flight Protecting & Releasing The state is home to about two-thirds of the 47 known bat species Sea Turtles in the United States. The following locations offer seasonal oppor- ive species of sea turtle—Kemp’s ridley, green, loggerhead, tunities to watch colonies of Mexican free-tailed bats emerge leatherback, and hawksbill—reside in the Gulf of Mexico. All at sunset. Visit tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/wild/species/bats/ five have nested at some time or another at Padre Island bat-watching-sites for more information about the best days F National Seashore, the largest stretch of undeveloped barrier to view bat flights. island in the world. The park not only provides habitat for sea turtles and other wildlife, but it also protects 70 miles of coastline, CITY BRIDGES dunes, prairies, and tidal flats. While the endan- Ann Richards Bridge, Watonga Boulevard Bridge Congress Avenue on White Oak gered Kemp’s ridley in downtown Austin Greenway in northwest Houston may decide to nest any- I-35 Bridge at Camden Street Waugh Drive Bridge on Buffalo where along the coast on the River Walk in Bayou in downtown Houston from Bolivar Peninsula San Antonio to between April and June, Padre PARKS & PRESERVES* Island, overwhelmingly, holds the most appeal Bracken Cave near Frio Bat Cave near Concan, and is the largest United San Antonio, batcon.org friobatflight.com States nesting grounds KEMP’S RIDLEY SEA TURTLE Clarity Tunnel, Caprock Can- Kickapoo Cavern State Park for the species. South yons Trailway near Quitaque, near Brackettville, Padre Island serves as the second largest. During nesting season, tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/ tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/ Padre Island National Seashore near Corpus Christi and caprock-canyons kickapoo-cavern Sea Turtle Inc. on South Padre Island locate nests and move the eggs to pro- near Devil’s Sinkhole State Natural tected areas. Once the turtles hatch, they have a limited amount of Area near Rocksprings, Fredericksburg, tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/ tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/ energy to dig out of the nest, cross the beach, and swim out past devils-sinkhole old-tunnel the waves. The turtles’ needs take precedence over public viewing opportunities. If turtles are ready to be released during the night, Eckert Bat Cave *Check ahead—many of these Preserve near Mason, sites charge fees and/or require they will be and a scheduled release may be canceled. However, nature.org a reservation. if the timing is right, travelers may be able to watch a hatchling release by Padre Island National Seashore or Sea Turtle Inc. from 22 Marvel at the Whoopers In mid-October, whooping cranes begin landing at Aransas National Wildlife Refuge near Port Aransas for their winter stay through March. The tallest and one of the rarest birds in North America, these whooping cranes are one of three remaining populations and the last naturally migrating group. Attaining a height of 5 feet with a 7-foot wingspan, whooping cranes present a spec- tacular sight. The refuge’s 40-foot WHOOPING CRANE observation tower provides optimal viewing opportunities as the whoop- ers winter in the salt flats and marshes. fws.gov/refuge/aransas Another way to see the whooping cranes is by boat. During their win- tering season, whooping crane boat tours depart Rockport to provide waterside views of this endangered species. These trips also present opportunities to view other shorebirds and wildlife. mid-June through August. When possible, the hatched sea turtles, Boat tours are a popular activity during Port Aransas’ Whooping Protecting & Releasing usually Kemp’s ridley, are released publicly during the early morn- Crane Festival in February, which celebrates the annual return of Sea Turtles ing to make their first journey into the sea. For a greater likelihood the whooping cranes to the refuge. The festival includes workshops, of seeing a release, people should try to coordinate their visit when seminars, birding and nature tours, and a nature-related trade show. several nests are expected to hatch. whoopingcranefestival.org Between November and February, extreme cold temperatures can move in too fast, causing sea turtles to become cold-stunned— unable to swim or move. In Texas, volunteers and partner groups search out cold-stunned sea turtles to be taken to a rehabilitation See Dolphins Up Close facility. Juvenile green turtles are the most commonly cold-stunned Of the 26 species because they like the algae that grows on jetties and sea grass in of whales and dol- BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN the Laguna Madre where the shallow water can quickly change phins noted on the temperature. If they are unable to reach warmer water when a Texas coast, bottle- rapid temperature change occurs, the turtles suffer a form of hypo- nose dolphins are the thermia that slows their body functions. They may float to the sur- most commonly seen. face and become vulnerable to boat traffic or wash ashore. Public They occupy the Gulf releases of these turtles may be scheduled once the turtles have year-round and may recovered and the water is warmer. be spotted swim- At anytime, year-round, visitors to Sea Turtle Inc. can see and ming alone or in small learn more about sea turtles. Ila Fox Loetscher founded the non- groups, known as a pod. Travelers along the coast often spot frol- profit organization in 1977 for the protection and rehabilitation of icking dolphins while riding the ferries between Galveston and Port the Kemp’s ridley sea turtle. She had fallen in love with the turtles Bolivar or Port Aransas and . They also are a common while volunteering at their principal nesting site in Rancho Nuevo, sight for boaters in the bays. Tour operators offer dolphin excursions Mexico, in 1965. After returning home, she began rehabilitating sea for an up-close experience. turtles and educating visitors to her home. Sea Turtle Inc. moved Aransas Pass Chamber Port Aransas Chamber out of Loetscher’s house in 1999. In 2018, the nonprofit completed of Commerce of Commerce & Tourist a new education complex that more than doubled the size of its aransaspass.org Bureau portaransas.org facility. The new education complex has displays, an amphitheater, Corpus Christi Convention classrooms, and larger tanks for resident sea turtles. A boardwalk & Visitors Bureau South Padre Island connects the complex with the rehabilitation center. Visitors can visitcorpuschristitx.org Convention & Visitors see injured sea turtles rehabbing for their return to the wild or serv- Bureau Convention & sopadre.com/education- ing as ambassadors if they cannot be released. seaturtleinc.org Visitors Bureau nature-tour and nps.gov/pais/learn/seaturtles.htm galveston.com 23 NATURE FOR MORE TEXAS EVENTS, go to texashighways.com/ EVENTS events. To order a printed copy of the quarterly Texas irding and nature events provide fun introductions to Highways Events Calendar, wildlife viewing. Most of the events focus on birding, featur- go to texashighways.com/ ing workshops, lectures, and guided field trips. Some, like the freepubs. For more bird- B ing activities, see the Texas Christmas Bird Count and bird banding, serve as citizen-science Parks and Wildlife maga- opportunities to help further scientific knowledge of bird species. zine birding calendar at Texas State Parks also hosts birding and nature viewing events that tpwmagazine.com/birding. discuss the variety of wildlife within the parks. The following are some of Texas’ annual events.

Laredo Birding Festival February, laredobirdingfestival.org Whooping Crane Festival in Port Aransas, February, whoopingcranefestival.org Birdiest Festival in America in Corpus Christi, April, birdiestfestival.org Balcones Songbird Festival in Lago Vista, April, friendsofbalcones.org/festival Butterfly Festival in Wimberley, April, emilyann.org/butterfly.html FeatherFest Birding & Nature Photography Festival in Galveston, April, galvestonfeatherfest.com Great Texas Birding Classic, April-May, birdingclassic.org Purple Martin watching in Austin, July, travisaudubon.org/purple-martin-parties Davis Mountains Hummingbird Celebration in Fort Davis, August, fortdavis.com/event/davis-mountains-hummingbird-celebration HummerBird Celebration in Rockport, September, rockport-fulton.org/hb Birding the Hills in Fredericksburg, October, wildlife.tamu.edu/birding/birding-the-hills Butterfly Flutterby in Grapevine, October, grapevinetexasusa.com/events/butterfly-flutterby Texas Butterfly Festival in Mission, October-November, texasbutterflyfestival.com Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival in Harlingen, November, rgvbf.org Christmas Bird Count, December, houstonaudubon.org/birding/ christmas-bird-counts/cbc.html Hawk Watches, spring and fall migration, Smith Point: near Houston, gcbo.org/avian-research-and-monitoring/smith-point-hawk-watch Hazel Bazemore Park: in Corpus Christi, hawkwatch.org/corpus Monthly Field Trips/Bird Walks, year-round, tx.audubon.org/chapters-centers/chapters Texas Parks and Wildlife Events, year-round, tpwd.texas.gov/calendar THE SEASONAL butterfly gardens at Wildseed Farms, in Fredericksburg, demonstrate a variety of plants that serve as a food source and host plant for 24 native butterflies. BUTTERFLY GARDEN

atch us fly. But- terflies, like bees, AMERICAN W provide import- SNOUT ant services to the environ- ment as pollinators and nat- ural pest control. Like many animals, butterflies require specific habitats to survive that include water, shel- ter, and various plants that nourish both the caterpillars and butterflies. To promote the growth of butterfly populations, some nature and wildlife centers preserve native habitats or have replanted specific butterfly- attracting native plants in butterfly gardens. The gardens may provide an opportunity to see free-flying native butterflies. Other places offer enclosed structures, or houses, in which visitors can interact with flittering butterflies. Butterfly houses may contain native butterflies or hold ones imported from butterfly farms.

Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park, Mission, tpwd.texas.gov/ state-parks/bentsen-rio-grande-valley Cockrell Butterfly Center, Houston, hmns.org/cockrell-butterfly-center Falcon State Park, Falcon Heights, tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/falcon/ nature Fredericksburg Nature Center Pollinator Garden, Fredericksburg, fredericksburgnaturecenter.com/pollinator-garden I-20 Wildlife Preserve & Jenna Welch Nature Study Center, Midland, i20wildlifepreserve.org Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Austin, wildflower.org/central-gardens National Butterfly Center, Mission, nationalbutterflycenter.org Native Texas Butterfly Garden & House, Heard Museum, McKinney, heardmuseum.org/butterflies Ruby N. Priddy Butterfly & Nature Conservatory, Riverbend Nature Center, Wichita Falls, riverbendnaturecenter.org/about/attractions , San Antonio, sabot.org BUTTERFLY and bee San Antonio Botanical Garden decline is often an early Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge, Alamo, fws.gov/refuge/Santa_Ana warning of environmen- South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center, Corpus Christi, tal degradation. Gardens stxbot.org/stxbot_exhibits.html provide food, water, and Texas Discovery Gardens, Dallas, txdg.org/butterfly-house shelter that butterflies need. Learn how to cre- Wildseed Farms, Fredericksburg, wildseedfarms.com/pages/ ate a butterfly garden at walking-trails-and-gardens tpwd.texas.gov/ Zilker Botanical Garden, Austin, zilkergarden.org/gardens/butterfly.html publications/huntwild/ wild/miscellaneous

25 NATURE SITES

ake time to visit. A number of nature centers, preserves, and Cedar Ridge Preserve, Dallas, audubondallas.org/ sanctuaries around the state provide additional options to ex- cedar-ridge-preserve T plore nature and potentially view wildlife. Each location features Cibolo Nature Center, Boerne, cibolo.org different amenities from self-guided hiking trails at some to guided Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center, Cedar Hill, bird walks at others. Some offer programs or classes to better acquaint dogwoodcanyon.audubon.org visitors with the location’s habitat and the animals that live there. Here Fredericksburg Nature Center, Fredericksburg, are some sites to explore: fredericksburgnaturecenter.com Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, Lake Jackson, gcbo.org Acton Nature Center of Hood County, Granbury, actonnaturecenter.org Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary, McKinney, heardmuseum.org Nature Center, Pasadena, abnc.org Houston Arboretum & Nature Center houstonarboretum.org , Zavalla, fs.usda.gov/detail/texas/ about-forest/districts Hugh Ramsey Nature Park, Harlingen, myharlingen.us/page/parks andrec.parks Austin Nature & Science Center austintexas.gov/department/ austin-nature-and-science-center I-20 Wildlife Preserve & Jenna Welch Nature Study Center, Midland, i20wildlifepreserve.org www.baytown.org/city-hall/departments/ parks-recreation/baytown-nature-center Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center, Humble, hcp4.net/parks/jjp Bob Jones Nature Center & Preserve, Southlake, Matagorda County Birding Nature Center, Bay City, mcbnc.org experiencesouthlaketexas.com/428

26 What will you discover?

Meadows Center for Water and the Environment, San Marcos, meadowscenter.txstate.edu Miller Springs Nature Center, Belton, ci.temple.tx.us/2602/ miller-springs Mineola Nature Preserve, mineolanaturepreserve.com Rio Bravo Nature Center, Eagle Pass, riobravonaturectr.org Riverside Nature Center, Kerrville, riversidenaturecenter.org Great Texas Seabourne Creek Nature Park, Rosenberg, rosenbergtx.gov/ seabourn-creek SFA Experimental Forest, Nacogdoches, srs.fs.usda.gov/4159/ Wildlife Trails experimental-forests/stephen-f-austin Shangri La Botanical Gardens & Nature Center, Orange, starkculturalvenues.org/shangrilagardens tpwd.texas.gov/wildlifetrails Sibley Nature Center, Midland, sibleynaturecenter.org South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center, Find even more places to view the Corpus Christi, stxbot.org Spring Creek Greenway Nature Center, Spring, unique and beautiful Texas wildlife! springcreekgreenway.org/naturecenter.htm The Great Texas Wildlife Trails will lead Audubon Center, Dallas, trinityriver.audubon.org/about/visit you to over 920 of the best spots to Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center, Dripping Springs, westcave.org see birds, butterflies, bats, pronghorns Wildcat Bluff Nature Center, Amarillo, wildcatbluff.org and more. Nine regional driving maps Wild Basin Creative Research Center, Austin, stedwards.edu/ academics/centers-institutes/wild-basin-creative-research-center are available online and in print for your next outdoor adventure. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Cornell Lab of Ornithology—all about Birds: allaboutbirds.org ebird: ebird.org/content/tx Inaturalist: inaturalist.org Nature Rocks: naturerockstexas.org