Birding

September in Texas means two things: lingering summer heat and spectacular birding. As migration kicks into high gear, the Lone Star State becomes the ultimate crossroads for millions of birds heading south. I’ve been birding Texas for decades, and September is one of those months where you never leave the field without a story—and usually without a stiff neck from staring up at kettles of hawks. Here are my top ten best places to bird in Texas during September, based on years of binocular time, field notes, and the occasional sunburn. 1. Padre Island National Seashore (South Texas Coast) Padre…

Discover cooler summer birding at Davis Mountains State Park. Spot Acorn Woodpeckers, Scott’s Orioles, and more in scenic West Texas. If you’re looking for birding in West Texas that doesn’t leave you feeling like you’ve been broiled in a convection oven, put Davis Mountains State Park at the top of your August travel list. Perched at over 5,000 feet in elevation, this scenic park offers warm but tolerable summer days and cool, refreshing nights—perfect conditions for both people and birds. In August, the Davis Mountains are alive with bird activity, making it one of the best birding spots in Texas…

Before you grab your binocs and chase that next lifer, just a quick note: this list highlights some of the most popular birding locations in the region, with only the basics to get you started. Think of it as a beginner’s guide for your next birdy road trip. We’re working on adding even more locations, juicy details, seasonal tips, and probably a few “you had to be there” birder stories. And hey—if you’re out exploring Texas, keep an eye out for Michael in the Texas Birder camper. He’s crisscrossing the state one birding hotspot at a time, likely parked under…

January in Texas is crisp, cool, and full of birds. Migration may be quiet, but winter residents are everywhere, from massive goose flocks in North Texas to tropical specialties in the Valley. For me, January birding feels like hitting the reset button: no pressure to chase every rarity, just the joy of crisp mornings, big skies, and a checklist that still has plenty of boxes to tick. Here are my Top 10 Best Places to Bird in Texas During January, based on years of muddy boots, early mornings, and binoculars frozen to my face once in the Panhandle. (Yes, it…

December birding in Texas is like unwrapping gifts all month long. Migration has eased, but winter residents are in full swing, and the state transforms into a birder’s wonderland. Whether you want to see thousands of geese rising off a refuge at dawn or spy a Green Jay stealing the spotlight down south, Texas delivers. Here are my Top 10 Best Places to Bird in Texas During December, based on years of personal field notes, frosty mornings, and more cups of gas station coffee than I’d like to admit. 1. Aransas National Wildlife Refuge (Central Coast) By December, Whooping Cranes…

By November, Texas birding feels like a Thanksgiving feast—plenty to choose from, all flavors represented, and you’ll probably overindulge. Migration is tapering, wintering birds are arriving, and the cooler weather makes long days in the field a joy instead of a sweat-soaked endurance test. Here are my Top 10 Best Places to Bird in Texas During November, based on years of personal treks, muddy boots, and binoculars permanently glued to my face. 1. Aransas National Wildlife Refuge (Central Coast) November means Whooping Cranes are back. Seeing them in person is like spotting royalty—tall, elegant, and rare. I once watched a…