Where to Spot Coastal Birds Along the Texas Coastal Bend This Spring
March marks the beginning of one of the most exciting times of year along the Texas Coastal Bend—spring bird migration. As temperatures rise and days grow longer, thousands of birds pass through this region, making it a must-visit destination for birdwatchers, photographers, and nature lovers.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just looking for a unique outdoor activity this spring, the Coastal Bend’s wetlands, barrier islands, and protected habitats offer incredible opportunities to witness the spectacle of migration.
Here’s your guide to the best birding spots, species to watch for, and local tips for enjoying the 2025 spring migration season.
Why March Is Prime Birdwatching Season
The Texas Coastal Bend sits along the Central Flyway, a major migratory route for birds traveling between North and South America. In March, early migrants begin arriving or passing through, including colorful songbirds, shorebirds, and raptors. It’s also your last chance to spot winter residents like the iconic whooping cranes before they head back north.
Best Birding Spots Along the Coastal Bend
🌿 1. Aransas National Wildlife Refuge
Located just north of Rockport, this refuge is famous as the winter home of the endangered whooping crane, which typically stays through March. While you’re there, keep an eye out for herons, egrets, and even alligators along the Heron Flats Trail and Observation Tower.
🌿 2. Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center (Port Aransas)
This boardwalk trail through wetlands is one of the top birding destinations in Port Aransas, with year-round residents like roseate spoonbills, black-necked stilts, and red-winged blackbirds. March brings migratory species like warblers, swallows, and sandpipers passing through.
🌿 3. Goose Island State Park
Nestled on the shores of Aransas Bay, Goose Island offers both woodland and waterfront habitats. In March, watch for white pelicans, oystercatchers, and colorful neotropical migrants starting their journey north.
🌿 4. Hazel Bazemore Park (Corpus Christi)
Known for its impressive hawk watch in the fall, this park still offers fantastic spring birding with sightings of kestrels, osprey, and other raptors, as well as waterfowl along the lakes and creeks.
🌿 5. Mustang Island State Park
For a coastal birding experience, stroll the beaches and dunes of Mustang Island. Shorebirds like sanderlings, plovers, and terns forage along the water’s edge during spring migration.
Must-See March Migrants
• Whooping Cranes (catch them before they leave!)
• Scissor-tailed Flycatchers
• Painted Buntings (later in spring)
• Swainson’s Hawks
• Yellow Warblers
• Purple Martins
• American Avocets
Birding Events and Tours
While March tends to be quieter for formal birding festivals, you can still find expert-led tours and nature programs throughout the Coastal Bend. Many local parks and refuges offer guided bird walks during migration season.
Check with places like Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, Goose Island State Park, and Port Aransas Nature Preserve for scheduled events.
Tips for Spring Birdwatching
• Bring binoculars and a camera—March lighting is perfect for photography.
• Dress in layers—mornings can be cool, but afternoons warm up quickly.
• Download birding apps like Merlin or eBird to help identify species.
• Arrive early—birds are most active around sunrise.
• Be patient—migration can vary depending on weather patterns, so every day is a bit different.
Plan Your Coastal Bend Birding Getaway
The Texas Coastal Bend is one of the best birding regions in the country, and spring is the perfect season to experience it. Whether you’re chasing rare migrants or just enjoying the peaceful natural surroundings, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to get outside and connect with nature.
Looking for more things to do during your trip? Combine your birding adventure with visits to local parks, beaches, and historic sites across the Coastal Bend.
Happy birding!
