Birding in Port Aransas, Texas

Port Aransas is along the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail and has been deemed one of the “birdiest” cities in the US. Port Aransas has three birding centers and makes it easy for visitors and residents during migration seasons to enjoy both migratory birds and year round residents.

The Roseate Spoonbill A bizarre wading bird of the southern coasts, the Roseate Spoonbill uses its odd bill to strain small food items out of the water. Its bright pink coloring leads many Port Aransas tourists to think they have seen a flamingo. Port Aransas has adopted the Roseate Spoonbill as our city mascot.

The Brown Pelican Unique among the world's seven species of pelicans, the Brown Pelican is found along the ocean shores and not on inland lakes. It is the only dark pelican, and also the only one that plunges from the air into the water to catch its food.

The Whooping Crane The tallest bird in North America, the Whooping Crane was once at the brink of extinction. It is making a steady recovery thanks to intensive management efforts in Canada and the United States, and as of December 2004, 468 Whooping Cranes existed in the wild and in captivity. Texas Wildlife Sanctuary is the winter home for over half of the entire world’s population of Whooper’s. The Whooping Crane Festival is held in Port Aransas, Texas at the end of every February to celebrate and observe this endangered species.

The Black Skimmer The remarkable bill of the Black Skimmer sets it apart from all other American birds. The large red and black bill is knife-thin and the lower mandible is longer than the upper. The bird drags the lower bill through the water as it flies along, hoping to catch small fish

Learn more about birding in Port Aransas Here