South Texas, specifically the Lower Rio Grande Valley (LRGV), is a premier birding destination because it serves as the northernmost limit for many tropical species.
Specialty Species (Tropical Rarities)
These birds are often found nowhere else in the United States:

Green Jay: A vibrant, intelligent bird with a mix of green, yellow, and blue plumage.

Plain Chachalaca: A large, chicken-like bird known for its loud, rhythmic “cha-cha-lac” calls in the early morning.

Great Kiskadee: A bold flycatcher with a bright yellow belly and a distinctive “kis-ka-dee” call.

Altamira Oriole: The largest oriole in the U.S., featuring brilliant orange and black colors.

Hook-billed Kite: A rare raptor that specializes in eating tree snails.

Buff-bellied Hummingbird: The only hummingbird that commonly winters along the South Texas coast.

Common Residents & Backyard Birds

Northern Mockingbird: The Texas State Bird, famous for mimicking other bird songs and urban noises.

White-winged Dove: Distinguished by the white stripe on its wings, these are extremely abundant in South Texas cities and brushlands.

Crested Caracara: A unique, ground-dwelling falcon often seen scavenging alongside vultures.

Inca Dove: A small, “scaly-looking” dove that is a permanent resident south of San Antonio.

Golden-fronted Woodpecker: The common woodpecker of the region, replacing the Red-bellied Woodpecker found further north.

Coastal & Water Birds

Roseate Spoonbill: Notable for its bright pink feathers and specialized spoon-shaped bill.

Reddish Egret: Known for its “dancing” hunting behavior in shallow saltwater.

Black Skimmer: A striking bird that “ploughs” the water with its elongated lower mandible to catch fish.

Prime Birding Locations
For the best viewing opportunities, enthusiasts often visit the World Birding Center sites, including:
Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge: Often called the “crown jewel” of the refuge system.
Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park: A hotspot for rare Mexican vagrants.
South Padre Island Birding Center: Excellent for coastal and migratory species.

David Michael Ramsey

rigsreefclassicspearfishing.com
BMC David M Ramsey
(503)298-0592
blacknbluepb@yahoo
Corpus Christi TX

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