The Ultimate Guide to Birding in Port Aransas
Port Aransas is known for its miles of shoreline. However, there’s more to this popular Texas vacation destination than sandy beaches. Port Aranas is also one of the best spots for birding in the region! Thanks to its location in the Central Flyway, there are countless spots near your Port A Beach House Company rental to see how many different kinds of birds you can spot. To help you have a successful birding excursion, we’ve made a little cheat sheet of where to go and what to look for.
Where to Go Birding
Mustang Island is home to six sites along the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail, each known for its incredible birding opportunities. Some are easier to drive than others, so we recommend these three be at the top of your list.
- The Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center is home to a native pollinator garden, large trees, and two boardwalks over freshwater wetlands. The site is an excellent place to see pelicans, herons, ducks, and roseate spoonbills.
- The Port Aransas Nature Preserve technically consists of four sites, including the above birding center. The mission of these sites is to protect habitats and promote harmony with nature.
- Mustang Island State Park in nearby Corpus Christi covers over 3,000 acres of Mustang Island. Known for year-round observation of coastal waterbirds, species seen here include herons, egrets, and gulls.
What to Bring with You
Birding is an activity that requires minimal equipment. The two most important pieces of equipment are binoculars and a bird guide or field guide. You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars on a pair of binoculars. There are options in all price ranges that are perfect for everyone, from novices to experienced birdwatchers.
You’ll also want some type of bird or field guide. A checklist like this one can help you keep track of what you have already seen on your Port Aransas vacations, while an illustrated guide like the ones you can get from Amazon helps you identify the birds you come across on your adventures.
What Types of Birds Can You See?
The birds you see while out exploring can vary greatly based on the time of year. For example, the long-bird thrasher is a year-round bird that is common to see. However, a mourning warbler is a migratory bird that’s rare to see in the area in spring and fall. Other species you might be able to see throughout the year include sparrows, orioles, goldfinches, and plovers. When observing birds, please remember to stay a safe distance away and follow all posted guidelines.
Enjoy the Slower Pace of Life in Port Aransas
Whether birding, relaxing by the pool, or going for a sunset stroll, there are plenty of ways to relax while still having fun on a Port Aransas vacation. If you’re overdue for some R&R, now is the time to reserve your rental from Port A Beach House Company. Our Port Aransas vacation rentals have all the comforts of home. To learn more about one of our places to stay in Port Aransas or special offers, call 361-749-0027.