Spring Migration

Texas is renowned for the swarming masses of migrant landbirds that hug the coast in the spring. Many of the Neotropical migrants fly directly over the Gulf of Mexico coming and going, (trans-Gulf migrants), while others avoid the over-water flight and follow the coast (circum-Gulf migrants). The Coastal Bend is blessed with both, and during spring (March through May) every tree, twig, and branch may be adorned with one of these colorful transients. Shorebirds, raptors, swallows, and waterbirds (waterfowl, herons, egrets) are among the birds that sweep over and through the Coastal Bend during this season. The Whooping Cranes remain along our coast until April.