Happy Trails: Discovering Texas Wildlife

Warm spring temperatures, geographic diversity, ideal migration patterns

make Texas one of the world’s best stops for birders and other outdoor enthusiasts

Wild treasures in Texas go far beyond cattle, cactus and coyotes. In addition to a world-class bird-watching experience, adventurers who hike, bike, kayak or even camel trek their way through Texas will find opportunities to chase rare butterflies, spot an endangered ocelot, boat with dolphins, or watch sea turtles make their nests.

“Texas as a whole is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 500 species of birds having been documented in the lower Rio Grande Valley; that’s more than most other states’ entire bird list. Both serious birders and casual tourists will be captivated by the area’s sights and sounds,” said Cliff Shackelford, an ornithologist for Texas Parks and Wildlife.

The Rio Grande Valley is a canvas of color and a haven for nature and bird enthusiasts. The World Birding Center in Mission serves as a global model for conservation and ecotourism and is home to rare Altamira orioles and plain chachalacas. Just down the road, the International Butterfly Park serves as an 85-acre refuge attracting native flora and fauna as well as more than 290 species of butterflies. Weslaco’s Valley Nature Center is not only home to hundreds of bird and butterfly species but also 23 varieties of dragonflies and damselflies. Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge, the “jewel” of the U.S. National Wildlife refuge system, in Alamo rounds off some of the Valley’s wildlife attractions. This refuge boasts twelve miles of walking trails and a 7-mile tour road that is open to both drivers and bicyclists.

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