N

S

W E

Rio Grande Valley Coastal ExpoHosted by: Edinburg Scenic Wetlands in mid-February. See and touch crabs, seastars, and other coastal animals; view a glass-bottom stream; solve a mysterious fishkill; learn what washes up on the Texas coast; and so much more.Call: 956-381-9922 for more information or visit: www.edinburgwbc.org

Ocelot Conservation FestivalHosted by: Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge in early March. Fewer than50 of these native wild cats are estimated to be left in the U.S., all of which are foundin deep South Texas. Experience their beauty at Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville.Call 956-748-3607 for more information or visit: www.friendsofsouthtexasrefuges.org

Vida Verde & Run Wild 5KHosted by: Quinta Mazatlan, McAllen. Annual Earth Day Festival in late April, featureslive animal adventures, magicians, music, over 70 vendors & artists, farmer’s market,organic cooking classes for adults & youth and a children’s discovery zone.Call 956-681-3370 for more information or visit: www.quintamazatlan.com

Spooky Science FestA night of nature and science exploration - investigates the world of "Cold-blooded"creatures in Weslaco. Typically held in mid-October. Call 956-565-3919 for moreinformation or visit: www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/estero-llano-grande

Wild in Willacy Nature and Heritage FestivalHosted by Raymondville Chamber of Commerce, Wild in Willacy Boot Fest is heldin late October and offers its guests an opportunity to "go beyond the gates" of someotherwise inaccessible ranches.Call 956-689-1864 for more information or visit: www.wildinwillacy.com

Rio Grande Valley Birding FestivalHarlingen has been recognized by the American Birding Association, the U.S. Fishand Wildlife Service, Texas Parks & Wildlife, and birding experts throughout the nationas a leader in the field of ecotourism. RGV Birding Festival takes place in earlyNovember. General Information call 1-209-22R-GVBF or visit: www.rgvbf.org

Texas Butterfly FestivalHosted by: The National Butterfly Center in Mission during early November.Spend 3 days exploring renowned public lands and private properties with world-classtrip leaders and expert guides during prime butterfly season.For more information, call 956.583.5400 or visit: www.texasbutterflyfestival.com

TOP SEVEN NATURE FESTIVALS

BIRD & BUTTERFLY NOTES

RIO GRANDE VALLEY SITES

1. Adolph Thomae County Park - Rio Hondo 2. Alamo Central Park / Alamo Inn B&B Gardens - Alamo 3. Anacua Unit (Las Palomas Wildlife Management Area) - Harlingen 4. Anzalduas County Park - Mission

5. Arroyo Colorado Unit (Las Palomas WMA) “Wildlife Restoration” – Rio Hondo 6. Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park - Mission 7. Bill Schupp Park - McAllen 8. Birds Nest B&B Gardens – McAllen 9. Boca Chica Tract (Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge)

Coastal Brownsville10. Boy’s and Girl’s Club of Alamo Park – Alamo11. Brownsville Sanitary Landfill - Brownsville12. C.B. Wood Park/McKelvey Park/Arroyo Colorado Hike & Bike Trail – Harlingen13. Camp Lula Sams Teaching Camp & Wildlife Refuge - Brownsville

14. Camp Perry – Rio Hondo15. Casa Santa Ana Sanctuary & B&B - Alamo 16. Chapeno – Roma17. Chihuahua Woods Preserve – Mission18. Dean Porter Park/Gladys Porter Zoo – Brownsville19. Delta Lake County Park – Weslaco20. Ebony Unit (Las Palomas Wildlife Management Area) – Harlingen

21. Edinburg Scenic Wetland Trails – Edinburg22. El Canelo Ranch & Inn – Raymondville23. El Rocio Retreat & B&B Gardens -Mission 24. Estero Llano Grande State Park - Weslaco25. FM 1421 Driving Tour (Resaca Rd.) - Brownsville

26. FM 2221 Driving Tour (Sparrow Road) - La Joya27. Falcon (Starr) County Park – Roma28. Falcon Ranch – Roma29. Falcon State Park – Roma30. Fort Brown Resaca - Brownsville

31. Fort Ringgold/The Chachalaca Nature Trail – Rio Grande City32. Fred Stone County Park – Port Mansfield/Raymondville33. Frontera Audubon Society Weslaco Thicket – Weslaco34. Fronton – Roma35. Harlingen Arroyo Colorado, Hugh Ramsey Park - Harlingen

36. Harlingen City Lake – Harlingen37. Hilltop Botanical Gardens & Inn – Lyford38. Indian Ridge Gardens & B&B –Mission39. La Casa Laguna Resaca, Gardens & B&B – Progreso Lakes/Weslaco40. La Feria Nature Center (Park) - La Feria

41. Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge – Rio Hondo42. La Lomita Chapel – Mission43. La Puerta Tract (Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge) Rio Grande City44. La Sal del Rey Tract (Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge

Raymondville45. La Sal Vieja – E Lake Tract (Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge) Raymondville46. La Sal Vieja – Teniente Tract (Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge) Raymondville47. Las Majadas Pond – Raymondville

48. Llano Grande Lake – Weslaco49. Lon C. Hill Park – Harlingen50. Longoria Unit (Las Polomas Wildlife Management Area)La Feria51. Los Ebanos Preserve – Los Fresnos52. Martin Refuge – Edinburg53. Methodist Camp Thicket/Estero Llano Grande State Park – Weslaco54. Mission Nature Park – Mission55. National Butterfly Center – Mission56. Old Hidalgo Pumphouse - Hidalgo57. Old Port Isabel Road – Coastal58. Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park -Brownsville59. Port Mansfield Nature Trail – Port Mansfield60. Quinta Mazatlan – McAllen61. Rancho Lomitas – Rio Grande City62. Resaca de la Palma State Park - Brownsville63. Rio Rico Road and Bluffs – Mercedes64. Roma Bluffs - Roma 65. Sabal Palm Audubon Center and Sanctuary – Brownsville66. Sacahuista Flats-Port Mansfield67. Salineno Tract (Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge) & DeWind’s Reserve – Roma68. San Augustin Park Reserve – Rio Grande City69. San Miguelito Ranch – Raymondville70. San Ygnacio Seedeater Preserve – Roma71. Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge – Alamo72. Santa Margarita Ranch – Roma73. Santa Monica Driving Loop – Raymondville 74. Seedeater Inn Garden & B&B - Zapata 75. South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center – Coastal76. South Padre Island – Coastal77. TX 48 (Brownsville to Port Isabel Driving Tour) – Coastal78. TX 100 (US 77 to Port Isabel Driving Tour) – Coastal79. Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Coastal Fisheries Field Station Brownsville80. Tiocano Lake (Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge) Harlingen81. Valley Nature Center – Weslaco82. Vieh’s Ranch and B&B – San Benito83. Weslaco Water Treatment Settling Basins – Weslaco84. Williams Wildscapes & Water Features – Pharr85. Yturria Tract (Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge) – La Joya86. Zapata City Park/Birding Trail – Roma

Visit www.SouthTexasNature.com for a downloadableSouth Texas Nature Guide

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________���

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

______________________________������

FRONT COVER

Welcome to One of the World’s FinestBirding & Butterfly Destinations

Texas’ Lower Rio Grande Valley is an attractive subtropical areaof Riparian and Tamaulipan Woodland with an abundance of water,creating a diverse year-round birding and butterfly haven. The Val-ley is nestled into the tip of South Texas, with the Rio Grande Riverrunning along its southern border and serving as a divide betweenthe United States and Mexico. It’s at the convergence of two majorflyways – Central and Mississippi. This ideal location offers morethan 535 bird species and 330 butterfly species – some of whichare seen only in the Valley.

In addition to these hot spots, every Valley city has wonderfulwooded cemeteries that are open from sunrise to sunset attractingspecialty, migrant, and vagrant birds. These memorial parks aregenerally welcoming to birders.The following listing covers a number of significant birding and but-

terfly destinations with information verified by local birder, KeithHackland.

1 Adolph Thomae County Park - Rio HondoThe lighted fishing piers, picnic areas, observation tower and naturetrail will engage you. Open 7 days/week, May-Aug, 6 a.m.-10 p.m.,Sept-Apr, 6 a.m.-8 p.m. $4/car, 30-Day Pass $18.00 each AnnualPass (windshield sticker) $53.00 each Contact Information: 956-748-2044 Address: 37844 Marshall Hutts Rd. Directions: From US77 in Harlingen, exit Loop 499 (Ed Carey Dr.), and travel N on EdCarey Dr. 2.4 miles to FM 106. Turn E onto FM 106, go 10.5 milesthru the City of Rio Hondo to FM 2925, turn N onto FM 2925, go14.6 miles to park. Bird Species Include: Altamira Oriole, Green Jay,Osprey, Skimmer, Willet, Black-crested Titmouse, Harris’s Hawk,Long-billed Thrasher, Common Pauraque, Reddish Egret, RingedKingfisher, and more!

2 Alamo Central Park / Alamo Inn B&B Gardens - AlamoCentral Park and the gardens at the Inn located on the town squareare productive for birds and butterflies. Address: 801 Main St. Con-tact: 956-782-9912. Bird Species Include: Bronzed Cowbird, Lesserand Common Nighthawk, Hooded Oriole, Green Parakeet, owls,migrants, raptors, wintering songbirds. The Inn has annually nestingLesser Nighthawk, and a good butterfly garden that produces U.S.rarities in butterflies and moths.

3 Anacua Unit (Las Palomas Wildlife Management Area) - HarlingenThe Anacua Unit has “two” separate land sections comprising 222acres in Cameron County, the most southern county of Texas. TheAnacua Unit is part of the Las Palomas Wildlife Management Area(WMA). The unit was originally farm fields, but now consists prima-rily of reforested white-winged dove breeding habitat. There aredesignated hunting areas for doves in both the north and south sec-tions of the unit. The closest complete commercial facilities areavailable in Harlingen. The area is covered in native habitat, nowater or facilities. Open year round, except closed for Special Per-mit hunts. Contact Information: 956-565-1223 (call prior to visit) Di-rections: 10 miles SW of Harlingen. Bird Species Include:White-tipped, Common, Ground, Inca and White-winged Dove,Green Jay, Olive Sparrow, Long-billed Thrasher, etc.

4 Anzalduas County Park - MissionOn-site features include: Restrooms, picnic area, boat ramp andfishing pier among Mesquite, Huisache, Ebony, Wild Olive, cactiand native grasses. Hours: The gate is open 8 a.m.-7 p.m. and 8a.m.-6 p.m. during daylight savings. The office is open 8 a.m.-5 p.m.Admission: $4/car weekends, there is no charge Mon-Fri. ContactInformation: 956-585-5311 Address: 6400 Anzalduas Dam Road.Directions: From US 83, W of McAllen, take FM 494 S thruGranjeno. Go past the cemetery and turn S at park sign. BirdSpecies Include: Gray Hawk, Northern Beardless-Tyrannulet,Ringed and Green Kingfisher, Brown-crested Flycatcher (summer),and Altamira Oriole. Good for butterflying!

5 Arroyo Colorado Unit (Las Palomas WMA) “WildlifeRestoration” – Rio HondoThe Arroyo Colorado Unit consists of 761 acres, most of which havereverted from farm and ranch land to native brush. The unit is lo-cated by traveling 3 miles E of Rio Hondo on Hwy 106, then 5.5miles N on Hwy 2925 in Cameron County. Primitive camping is al-lowed for permitted hunters selected for the drawn youth deerhunts. There are no restroom facilities or potable water available.The closest complete commercial facilities are available in Harlin-gen. Call Las Palomas Wildlife Management Area (WMA) head-quarters for more information: 956-501-4793 (prior to visit) BirdSpecies Include: Ground, Mourning and White-winged Dove, Long-Billed Thrasher, Green Kingfisher, Forster’s Tern, and other wildlife.

6 Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park - MissionFeaturing an exhibit hall, coffee bar, gift shop, picnic areas, bath-rooms, a two-story observation tower, bird blinds, nature trails, anda nature center. Most are wheelchair accessible. This 762-acre parkhas subtropical Riparian and Tamaulipan Woodlands with over 300species of birds and over 200 species of butterflies. Contact Infor-mation: 956-585-1107 Address: 2800 S. Bentsen Palm Drive (FM2062) Directions: Take US 83 W of Mission, exit S onto BentsenPalm Rd. and continue about 3 miles to park. Hours: Open sevendays/week, year round. Gates open 7 a.m.-10 p.m. and the VisitorCenter is open 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Admission: $5/person/day (childrenunder 12 free and TX senior discounts are available). Pay at giftshop or honor box at gate. Bird Species Include: Least Grebe,Hook-billed Kite, Northern Beardless-Tyrannulet, Olive Sparrow, Al-tamira Oriole, and Clay-colored Thrush. It is a natural habitat mag-net for butterflies.

7 Bill Schupp Park - McAllenThis green space gem was named after long time City Manager BillSchupp, who served McAllen from 1946-1974. The park features19 acres within the city limits and has wheel chair accessible rest-rooms, paved parking, walking trails, a playground and picnic areas.Contact Information: 956-681-3333 Address: 1300 Zinnia Ave. Di-rections: From US 281 in Pharr, exit W onto Nolana. Go to 10th St.in McAllen, turn N. Travel to the third street, Zinnia Ave., and turnW. Proceed into the park. Bird Species Include: Golden-fronted andLadder-backed Woodpecker, and other Valley specialties.

8 Birds Nest B&B Gardens – McAllenThis Bed & Breakfast offers an attractive garden with native treeson a full acre in McAllen. Address: 1400 North 6th St. Contact: 956-330-1045. Bird Species Include: Good for urban Valley specialties,Red-crowned Parrot, Green Parakeet, Great Horned Owl, and mi-grants.

9 Boca Chica Tract (Lower Rio Grande Valley National

Wildlife Refuge) – Coastal BrownsvilleThis tract includes 22 miles of a variety of habitats such as thornscrub, forest edge, wetlands, coastal prairie, bay-near shore tideflats and sandy beach. No facilities. Do not enter thru gated areaseven if gate is open. Immigration check point - ID REQUIRED –Passports for Visitors to U.S.A. Contact Information: 956-784-7500.Hours: Open daily sunrise to sunset. Directions: From US 77 inBrownsville, exit TX 48 (Boca Chica), go E on TX 48 to TX 4 andclear trip odometer. Proceed E on TX 4 11.5 miles to entrance ofTract, which is designated by cement walls and the Battle of Palmito

Rancho Historical marker. Continue to 12.9 miles. At this point youcan take either of the fishing access roads to the N or S, or continueE on TX 4 and look for the Public Information Map located on yourright at 17.8 miles. To the S is another fishing access road or con-tinue E on TX 4 to the Gulf of Mexico. Bird Species Include: Mag-nificent Frigatebird (summer), Roseate Spoonbill, Piping Plover,Botteri’s Sparrow, Reddish Egret, and Valley coastal specialties.

10Boy’s and Girl’s Club of Alamo Park – AlamoThis park includes a trail thru thicket with benches and paved park-ing. Directions: Take US 83 to Alamo, exit FM 907. Go S on FM 907to the first street, Duranta Ave., turn W. The Club is located on theNW corner of 13th St. & Duranta Ave. (at 501 N. 13th St.). BirdSpecies Include: Doves, migrants, and urban birds.

11Brownsville Sanitary Landfill - BrownsvilleNo facilities. Hours: The Brownsville Sanitary Landfill is open 7 a.m.-3:45 p.m.; closed Sunday and holidays. Directions: From US 77 inBrownsville, exit FM 802 (Ruben Torres Blvd). Travel E, sevenmiles, thru the intersection at FM 511, to the landfill. Pull up on theL side of the office. Show binoculars to landfill staff and they will letyou drive in. Bird Species Include: Aplomado Falcon, ChihuahuanRaven, Horned Lark, Sharp-shinned, White-tailed, Red-tailed andCooper’s Hawks, Peregrine Falcons, Black-tailed and Slaty-backedGull (spring), Lesser Black-backed, California, and Thayer’s Gull.

12C.B. Wood Park/McKelvey Park/Arroyo Colorado Hike andBike Trail – HarlingenThe Park is along the banks of the Arroyo Colorado and is coveredin native habitat. Asphalt parking, covered picnic tables, water foun-tain, playground, with wheelchair accessible parking and walkingtrails. Directions: From US 77 in Harlingen, exit FM 1479 (“F”Street). From the N, continue to Rangerville Rd., cross under theoverpass and turn N on frontage. From the S, stay on the frontageroad one mile to Taft Ave.; turn E on Taft to 1st St., turn S on 1st St.to Wilson, then W on Wilson to park. Bird Species Include: White-tailed Kite, Green Jay, Orange-crowned Warbler, Green Kingfisher,Neotropic Cormorant, Couch’s Kingbird, Long-billed and Curve-billed Thrasher, Olive Sparrow, Valley specialties, and migrants.

13Camp Lula Sams Teaching Camp & Wildlife Refuge -BrownsvilleThis 87-acre private refuge with five-acre Resaca is surrounded bythornscrub, woodland forest, salt prairie and grassland. Overnightaccommodations are available by appointment only. Call 956-350-9093 for directions and leave your name and phone number. BirdSpecies Include: Least Grebe, White-faced Ibis, Ringed Kingfisher,Scissor-tailed Flycatcher, Anhinga (winter), Least Bittern (summer),Couch’s and Tropical Kingbird, Groove-billed Ani, Buff-bellied Hum-mingbird, Great Kiskadee, Green Jay, Curve-billed and Long-billedThrasher.

14 Camp Perry – Rio HondoNative brush and nature trails along the Arroyo Colorado. Ownedand operated by the Rio Grande Council, Boy Scouts of America.For permission and directions, call 956-423-0250. Bird Species In-clude: Valley specialties and migrants.

15Casa Santa Ana Sanctuary & B&B - AlamoExtensive native gardens and woodlands adjacent to Santa AnaNational Wildlife Refuge with bird feeding station and photographyblind, a short wildlife trail and several very productive butterfly gar-dens. Address: 3239 South Tower Rd. Contact: 956-783-5540.Birds Species Include: Song birds, migrants, plus outings to seeowls, Common Pauraque, and other creatures of the night.

16Chapeno – RomaChapeno includes a picnic area. No restrooms. Admission: $3.00Directions: From US 83 W of Roma, travel 10 miles, turn W ontoFM 2098; as you enter Falcon Heights look for Chapeno Rd. oppo-site the Catholic Church. Turn S on Chapeno Rd. and go 2.7 miles.As you pass a bend in the road, a sign for El Rio RV Park points tothe S. - Enter to Manager’s house and park next to office. BirdSpecies Include: Muscovy Duck, Hook-billed Kite, Gray Hawk, Red-billed Pigeon, Brown Jay, and Audubon Oriole.

17Chihuahua Woods Preserve – MissionAccess to 349-acre wildlife preserve is walk-in. No facilities. Amarked trail is approx. one mile long. Visiting parties are limited tosix adults, not suitable for children or pets. Paths are not regularlymaintained. Contact Information: 956-222-0483. Hours: Daylighthours only, may be closed during periods of extreme fire danger.Directions: Take US 83 W of Mission exit Goodwin Rd. /FM 492 (atHEB). Take FM 492 S 0.8 miles to Bus. 83. Turn right on Bus. 83and go 0.7 miles to where Bus. 83 then curves to the NW. At thecurve, go straight onto the blacktop road that parallels RR track for0.1 mile. The preserve entrance is on L where the blacktop roadcrosses the RR track. Bird Species Include: Valley specialties andmigrants. Good for butterflying.

18Dean Porter Park/Gladys Porter Zoo – BrownsvilleBoth sites covered in Mesquite, Ebony, Palms and Huisache. A Re-saca runs on the E and N sides of the park and meanders through-out the Zoo. Restrooms, picnic tables, phones and playground areavailable at park. Contact: 956-546-7178 for admission prices tozoo. Directions: From US 77 in Brownsville, exit 6th St. After stopsign, veer R off frontage road to SW, follow 6th St to Ringgold St,turn NW on Ringgold. Gladys Porter Zoo is on SW and the Park ison NE. Bird Species Include: Excellent viewing of colonial nestingbirds such as Snowy Egret, Tri-colored, Green and Black-crownedNight Heron each spring on the Zoo grounds; Red-crowned Parrot,and other specialties.

19Delta Lake County Park – WeslacoThe park features a man-made, fresh-water lake. Restrooms, pavil-ion, BBQ facilities and picnic tables. No swimming is allowed.Hours: Open daily 8 a.m.-sunset. Directions: From US 83 in Wes-laco, take FM 88 N 16 miles. Park entrance is on the E side of FM88. Entry Fee: $2 per vehicle. Bird Species Include: White Pelican,Roseate Spoonbill, Opsrey, Ringed Kingfisher, Rails, Tree Swallow,shorebirds, and migrants.

20 Ebony Unit (Las Palomas Wildlife Management Area)HarlingenCovered in native habitat with a large pond and viewing platform onthe water. No facilities. Directions: Two miles SE of Harlingen. TakeFM 1479 Rangerville Rd., turn onto De Los Santos Rd. Bird SpeciesInclude: Ringed Kingfisher, Roseate Spoonbill, Least Grebe, Tri-colored Heron, Couch’s Kingbird, and other Valley specialties.

21 Edinburg Scenic Wetland Trails – EdinburgThe Edinburg Scenic Wetlands is a 40-acre nature site that includesa 3.5-acre butterfly garden, 2.5 miles of trails, observation decks,multiple water features and an Interpretive Center. The InterpretiveCenter boasts an extensive gift shop, restrooms, water fountains,vending machine and exhibits - adjacent to the Municipal Park. Vis-itor Center hours Mon-Sat, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. summers,closed Sundays. Grounds open daily, 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon-Sat. Con-tact Information: 956-381-9922 Address: 714 Raul Longoria Road.Admission: $3/adults; $2/students and seniors, 55+; free/children

five and under. Directions: From US 281, exit TX 107 (UniversityDr.) in Edinburg. Go E to Raul Longoria Rd., turn S. At Sprague &Raul Longoria, turn E into Municipal Park and into the first parkinglot on the N side of the road. Bird Species Include: Ringed andGreen Kingfisher, Buff-bellied Hummingbird, Least Bittern, LeastGrebe, American White Pelican (winter), etc. Usually offers a greatshow of butterflies.

22 El Canelo Ranch & Inn – RaymondvilleThe Inn at El Canelo specializes in “ranch-chic” overnight accom-modations (elegant gourmet meals and wine included) for birdersseeking exclusive access to this “birdy” 1,500-acre private property.While there is not always a pair of “yardbird” Ferruginous PygmyOwls on the two-acre grounds surrounding the Inn, many pairs areresident on the ranch. Reservations are strictly required. Call: 956-689-5042 or email monica@elcaneloranch.com (BEFORE travelingto the site).

23 El Rocio Retreat & B&B Gardens -Mission Peaceful extended gardens that are excellent for Valley specialties,adjacent to a golf course and the Veteran’s Cemetery makes it abirdy spot. Address: 2519 South Inspiration Rd. Contact: 956-584-7432. Bird Species Include: Valley specialties and migrants.

24 Estero Llano Grande State Park - WeslacoEstero Llano Grande offers wetlands and other diverse habitats.Bird and butterfly enthusiasts alike will enjoy exploring 230 plus-¬acres and five miles of easy walking trails. Sit under the park'slarge covered deck overlooking the wetlands. There are five butter-fly gardens, ponds of varying size and depths, two observationdecks, with levee access overlooking the Llano Grande channel.There is a store, meeting space/classroom, multi-purpose recre-ation hall, and Camp Thicket Retreat and Training Center. ContactInformation: 956-565-3919 Address: 3301 S. International Blvd. (FM1015) Directions: From the intersection of US 83 and FM 1015 (In-ternational Blvd), head South on FM 1015 approximately two milesto Estero Llano Grande State Park on the left hand side. BirdSpecies Include: All three Kingfishers, Ringed, Belted and Green,Least Grebe, Groove-billed Ani, Buff-bellied Hummingbird, Com-mon Pauraque, Altamira Oriole, Northern-beardless Tyrannulet, andRed Crowned Parrot, etc. Great home for butterflies!

25 FM 1421 Driving Tour (Resaca Rd.) - BrownsvilleDirections: From US 77, S of San Benito, exit on TX 100/FM 1421turn W after crossing the RR tracks and clear the trip odometer. FM1421 makes an immediate L turn and heads S along and across aResaca at 0.5 miles. Continue 0.7 miles to cross another Resaca.You may want to turn W onto the dirt road to stop and view this area.Continue S on the Mesquite-lined FM 1421 thru a low area of reedsthat, depending on the last rain, may or may not have water. Con-tinue 3.1 miles to Brownsville ISD Encampment. Continue past LaPaloma Grove Ranch to 3.9 miles where you will find another Re-saca. Depending on the recent rains you may want to turn E ontothe dirt road for good viewing around the curve. Upon returning toFM 1421, turn N and travel the 3.9 miles to the original turn to crossthe RR tracks. You can, at this point, turn W onto Rice Tract Rd.and continue 1.2 miles as asphalt ends, until you see a fencedwater district building on your R. Stop and walk up the N side to seea reservoir, spillway, and Resaca. Bird Species Include: Valley Spe-cialties.

26 FM 2221 Driving Tour (Sparrow Road) - La JoyaThis fairly busy paved road, turns into a Caliche (dirt) road withgrassy fence lines. The road can be birded successfully with careand is well-known for wintering sparrows. Directions: From US 83just W of La Joya, turn N on FM 2221. Bird wooded and brush sec-tions by pulling over onto shoulders. Proceed N when paved FM2221 turns E and the road N (dirt) is now called Jara Chinas Rd. -Bird fence lines. Bird Species Include: Known for good views of win-tering sparrow and other western dryland species such as Cassin’s,Grasshopper, Lark, Savannah, Lincoln, Clay-colored Sparrow, SageThrasher, and Pyrrhuloxia.

27 Falcon (Starr) County Park – RomaFalcon (Starr) County Park has picnic tables, restrooms (ratherrough) and camping sites. There is a day fee for camping. Direc-tions: On US 83 W of Roma, 10 miles, turn W on FM 2098. Imme-diately turn R into park. Bird Species Include: Upland birds, Raptors,Great Horned Owl, Western Meadowlark, several species of win-tering sparrows, migrants, and Red-billed Pigeon (spring).

28 Falcon Ranch – RomaNo trespassing allowed. This is a private game refuge, but viewingis permissible from the road. Directions: On US 83 W of Roma, 10miles, turn W on FM 2098. Proceed thru Falcon Heights. Turn NEand continue on FM 2098 1.4 miles to a great overlook of a pondon the NW side of the highway. Pull off close to the fence for thebest view, if it has not been raining. Bird Species Include: Valleyspecialties.

29 Falcon State Park – RomaFalcon State Park features 572 acres of gentle rolling hills coveredwith patches of thorny brushland, consisting mostly of Mesquite,Huisache, Mexican Olive, Texas Ebony, cacti and native grasses.Camping, water and electricity, a screened shelter, air-conditionedcabins, restrooms, showers, trailer dump-station is available.Hours: Open 6am-10pm daily. Admission: $5/person (12 yrs. andunder free) At admission office, ask for “bird list”. Contact Informa-tion: 956-848-5327. Directions: On US 83 W of Roma, 10 miles,turn W on FM 2098. Proceed thru Falcon Heights and take ParkRd. 46 to Park. Bird Species Include: Common Ground-Dove,Greater Roadrunner, Cactus and Bewick’s Wren, Curve-billedThrasher, Northern Cardinal, Pyrrhuloxia, and Black Throated Spar-row. Good for butterflies.

30 Fort Brown Resaca - BrownsvilleThe Resaca runs through the campus of the University of TexasBrownsville/Texas Southmost College behind the Village at Ft.Brown. The best viewing is late in the evening in the Village parkinglot. Directions: From US 77 in Brownsville, exit Hwy 4 (InternationalBlvd). Turn S on International and continue to Elizabeth St. (do notcross the International Bridge). Turn E on Elizabeth and continueacross Resaca to Village. Bird Species Include: Red-crowned Par-rot and Green Parakeet.

31 Fort Ringgold/The Chachalaca Nature Trail – Rio Grande CityThe trail is located at the SW corner of a small park inside the fenceof Fort Ringgold, adjacent to the fire station. It is covered in nativeEbony, Mesquite and Hackberry trees, offers covered picnic tablesand runs approximately two miles, with a variety of habitats as traildrops toward river. Directions: From US 83 in Rio Grande City, atthe curve around Fort Ringgold, turn S on Ringgold Ave., pass theold Guard House, take immediate W turn on Lee Circle. Go oneblock and turn back N on Cavalry St. The park is in front of you.Bird Species Include: Clay-colored Thrush, Black Phoebe, Tropicaland Couch’s Kingbird, and Valley specialties.

32 Fred Stone County Park – Port Mansfield/RaymondvillePark features include restrooms, a fishing pier and picnic tables, noRV hook-ups. The nature trail starts at the NW corner of the N park-ing lot. Approximate distance is a ½-mile to ¾-mile thru native Texasbrush. Contact Information: 956-944-2354. Directions: From US 77in Raymondville, turn E on TX 186 and go 24 miles to Port Mans-field. At FM 606 turn N and go one mile to the park. Bird SpeciesInclude: Brown Pelican, Roseate Spoonbill, Black Skimmer, Amer-ican Oystercatcher, and Marbled Godwit. Note: The algal flats southof the Mansfield Cut host the world’s largest wintering population ofPiping Plover.

33 Frontera Audubon Society Weslaco Thicket – WeslacoThis is a non-profit organization with a 15-acre nature preserve fea-turing mature native woodlands, trails, wetlands, and butterfly gar-dens. Contact Information: 1101 South Texas Blvd. (FM 88)Weslaco, 956.968-3275. The Visitor’s Center is open Wed-Sat 8a.m.-4 p.m., Sun Noon-4 p.m. Admission: Adults $5, Seniors $4,Children under 12 free. Bird Species Include: Altamira Oriole, GreenKingfisher, White-tipped Dove, Groove-billed Ani, Long-billedThrasher, and Olive Sparrow. Good butterflying.

34 Fronton – RomaThis stretch of the Rio Grande River provides some of the best re-maining Riparian Woodland. Directions: On US 83 N of Roma, turnW on FM 650. Go 4.8 miles to Fronton. Turn S on River Rd., whichbecomes Caliche. Continue S to Rio Grande River. Bird SpeciesInclude: Sora, Common Gallinule, Belted, Green and Ringed King-fisher, Groove-billed Ani, Altamira and Audubon’s Oriole, Red-billedPigeon, Clay-colored Thrush, Muscovy Duck, and other local spe-cialties.

35 Harlingen Arroyo Colorado, Hugh Ramsey Park - Harlingen Features include: Restrooms, a partially-paved parking area, photoblinds, and nature and walking trails. Contact Information: 956-427-8873 Address: 1001 S. Loop 499, the area is covered in HoneyMesquite, Texas Ebony, Huisache, Brasil, Retama and Granjeno.Good migrant trap in spring. Oct-Apr, Wednesday morning naturewalks are led by members of the Arroyo Colorado Audubon Society,at 7:30 a.m. Hours: Open 6 a.m. – 9 p.m. Bird Species Include:Green Jay, Orange-crowned Warbler (winter), Green Kingfisher,Couch’s Kingbird, Long-billed and Curve-billed Thrasher, OliveSparrow, etc. Good for butterfly viewing.

36 Harlingen City Lake – HarlingenA walking/jogging trail loops around the lake for a view from allsides. Across the street, the dense native trees create a canopy thatcan be quite productive during migration. No facilities. Directions:From US 77 in Harlingen, exit Loop 499 (Ed Carey Dr.). Turn NEon Ed Carey for one mile. Turn NW on 77 Sunshine Strip and con-tinue past Arroyo Colorado Bridge. Be in the L lane to take L forkonto Commerce St. Continue on Commerce, turn N on 6th St. andproceed 11 blocks. Cross the RR tracks. The lake is on your L andLiberty Garden is on your R, just past the library. Bird Species In-clude: Valley specialties and migrants.

37 Hilltop Botanical Gardens & Inn – LyfordThis 500 acre farm was first planted with Aloe Vera in 1938, andwas recently master planned with four gardens. The farm receivedorganic certification and certification for Global G.A.P. (Good Agri-cultural Practice). Open to the public Tues – Sat 9 a.m-4:30 p.m.Admission: Adults $3, Children 5-12 $1, Under 5 years Free. Con-tact Information: 956-262-2176. Directions: 6.5 miles North of LaVilla on FM 491, 100 Lee Lane, Lyford. Bird Species Include:Crested Caracara, Buff-bellied Hummingbird, Altamira Oriole, Clay-colored Thrush, Long billed Thrasher, Couch’s & Tropical Kingbird,Pyrrhuloxia, Hook-billed Kite, Roseate Spoonbill, Black crested Tit-mouse, Barn Owl, and other local birds. Gardens attract butterflies.

38 Indian Ridge Gardens & B&B –MissionGarden and adjacent canal is attractive to wildlife. Address: 209 WOrange Grove Rd. Contact: 956-519-3305.Bird Species Include: Valley specialties, migrants, frequently havenesting Barn Owl. Good for butterflies.

39 La Casa Laguna Resaca, Gardens & B&BProgreso Lakes/WeslacoLa Casa Laguna is located on the shore of a Resaca at ProgresoLakes. Address: 1560 Lion Lake Dr. North Contact: 956 787-0323.Bird Species Include: Water birds and Valley specialties.

40 La Feria Nature Center (Park) - La FeriaThe City Park and wetland adjacent to La Feria Reservoir includea covered observation pier, paved parking, and restrooms. Hours:Sunrise to sunset. Directions: From US 83, exit at La Feria; travel0.25 miles S to Business 83 (at the RR tracks); turn R and headwest 0.75 miles to Rabb Rd.; turn L and travel S to the end of RabbRd. to enter park. Address: 1800 South Rabb Rd. Contact: City Hall956-797-2261. Bird Species Include: King Rail, Virginia Rail, water-fowl, shorebirds, waders, Roseate Spoonbill, Wren, Valley special-ties, and nesting Loggerhead Shrike. Also, a productive spot forviewing butterflies.

41 Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge – Rio HondoThree separate units totaling approximately 90,000 acres, LagunaAtascosa NWR is the largest protected area of habitat in the RioGrande Valley, with 415 bird species recorded. Contact: 956-748-3607. Hours: The 15-mile Scenic Bayside Drive at Laguna Atascosais open sunrise to sunset. The Visitor Center is open 8 a.m.-4 p.m.every day except all major holidays. Wheelchair accessible rest-rooms are available at the Visitor Center. Admission: Daily pass$3/vehicle. Directions: From US 77 in Harlingen, exit Tyler Ave. Pro-ceed thru Harlingen on Tyler Ave., which becomes FM 106, for 18miles, going thru Rio Hondo to the “T” in the road. Turn L 2.5 milesto the Visitors Center. Bird Species Include: Greater Roadrunner,Sandhill Crane, Redhead Duck, Piping Plover, Long-billed Curlew,Willet, American Golden Plover, Upland Sandpiper, Green Jay,Common Pauraque, Long-billed Thrasher, Olive Sparrow, Groove-billed Ani, Botteri’s Sparrow, White-tailed Hawk, Crested Caracara,and Aplomado Falcon. Good for butterflies.

42 La Lomita Chapel – MissionSite features include picnic tables, restrooms and a parking areacovered in Mesquite and Ebony trees. Church Hours: Open 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Information: Site open daily sunrise to sunset. Directions:From US 83 in Mission, exit S on FM 1016. As the road curves tothe E, look for JCT 494 and a sign for La Lomita Mission. Turn Son JCT 494 and turn S again on the first road. Go across the RRtracks and turn E on S Levee bank. Good for Valley specialties andbutterflies.

43 La Puerta Tract (Lower Rio Grande Valley National WildlifeRefuge) – Rio Grande CityThere is a parking area; foot access only. Do not enter gated areaseven if gate is open, and do not go off the trails. No facilities. Con-tact: 956-784-7500. Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset. Direc-tions: The tract sites are on the N side of US 83, W of Sullivan City.The tract begins 2.5 miles W of FM 1430, which goes to Garci-asville. Good for viewing Valley specialties and migrants.

44 La Sal del Rey Tract (Lower Rio Grande Valley NationalWildlife Refuge) – RaymondvilleFoot access only; stay on trails and enter only thru marked entrypoints. No facilities. Observe posted signs with regard to nestingsites and restrictions. Contact: 956-784-7500. Hours: Open daily,sunrise to sunset. Directions: From US 77 in Raymondville, take TX186 W 18 miles to Brushline Rd. Turn N on Brushline Rd. There arethree marked entry points to this road. 2.3 miles further along TX186, after Brushline Rd., there is a public Information map with park-ing and entrance. Bird Species Include: (winter) Sandhill Crane,Snow Goose, Long-billed Curlew, Say’s Phoebe, (summer) SnowyPlover, Wilson’s Phalarope, White-tailed Hawk, and CrestedCaracara.

45 La Sal Vieja – E Lake Tract (Lower Rio Grande Valley Na-tional Wildlife Refuge) – RaymondvilleAccessible by foot only; enter only thru those points designated onthe public information map and do not go off trails. Do not entergated areas, even if gate is open. Contact: 956-784-7500. Hours:Open daily sunrise to sunset. Directions: From US 77 in Ray-mondville, exit W on TX 186 and travel 4.8 miles to FM 1761. TurnN on FM 1761 and proceed 2.6 miles until the asphalt turns E. Con-tinue straight onto the caliche road, which will take you across thebridge. Go to the first road and turn to the W and proceed to thefence with signage for U.S. Fish and Wildlife. Good for local birds,migrants, and butterflies.

46 La Sal Vieja – Teniente Tract (Lower Rio Grande ValleyNational Wildlife Refuge) – RaymondvilleAccessible by foot only; enter only thru those points designated onthe public information map and do not go off the trails. Do not entergated areas even if the gate is open. Contact: 956-784-7500.Hours: Open daily sunrise to sunset. Directions: From US 77 inRaymondville, exit W on TX 186. Go W on TX 186 11 miles to thefirst unpaved road 0.5 miles past FM 88. Turn N on the unpavedroad and go to the first of five public entry points on this road intothe tract. 3.6 miles down this road you will reach the N boundary.Turn W, pass a pond on your R and continue one mile and turn Sback to TX 186. Turn W on TX 186 and go to the next county road(Country Road 10 - Rio Beef Feedyard). Turn N to the first of twopublic entry points on this road. Three miles down is the public in-formation map. Good for Valley specialties and migrants.

47 Las Majadas Pond – RaymondvilleA parking area is available for viewing as is an observation deckwith a wheelchair accessible ramp. No facilities. Directions: FromUS 77 in Raymondville, exit E on TX 186 1.2 miles to pond. Lookfor signage: “Wildlife Viewing Area & Windmill”. Good for local spe-cialty birds and migrants.

48 Llano Grande Lake – WeslacoLlano Grande Lake is characterized as a floodway surrounded bynative habitat. Directions: From US 83 E of Weslaco, turn S on FM1015. Just south of Estero Llano Grande State Park, immediatelyafter the bridge, look for a gate on your L. This is a private farm,but if the gate is open, you may drive along the floodway (dirt road).Bird Species Include: Least Grebe, Yellow-crowned Night-Heron,Black-necked Stilt, Greater and Lessor Yellowlegs, Solitary, West-ern, Least, White-rumped, Baird’s, Pectoral and Stilt Sandpiper, Wil-son’s Phalarope, and American White Pelican.

49 Lon C. Hill Park – HarlingenThis park is covered in native trees located across the street fromMunicipal Auditorium/Casa de Amistad; restrooms, picnic tables andplayground. Directions: From US 83 E in Harlingen, exit Tyler Ave.Pass Texas Tourist Information Center (on left) and turn N onfrontage road. Cross RR tracks and proceed on frontage road toFairpark Blvd. Turn E on Fairpark Blvd. and proceed to Lon C. HillPark. Good for local birds and butterflies.

50 Longoria Unit (Las Polomas Wildlife Management Area)La FeriaThis WMA is 373 acres of remnant high quality woodland, with nofacilities. Contact Information: 956-565-1223. Hours: Open dailysunrise to sunset. Directions: From US 83 in La Feria, exit FM 506,turn N and go 10.4 miles. This unit is on both sides of the road. BirdSpecies Include: Valley specialties and migrants. Good for butter-flies.

51 Los Ebanos Preserve – Los FresnosLos Ebanos Preserve is an 82-acre private nature park for bird andbutterfly watching with gardens of native and tropical plants andtrails, butterfly gardens, open-air pavilion with tables and chairs andrestrooms. Open only by appointment. Call: 956.399.9097. Direc-tions: From US 77 S of San Benito, exit E on State Highway 100and go 100 yards to the entrance on the left. Bird Species Include:Valley specialties and migrants. Good for butterflies.

52 Martin Refuge – EdinburgThis is a private wildlife refuge located NW of Mission, offeringwildlife and nature photography opportunities. Professionally de-signed photo blinds on water features bring critters close in. Visitorscan view and photograph Valley bird specialties, as well as mam-mals, and reptiles. By appointment only. Contact Information: 956-381-1264

53 Methodist Camp Thicket/Estero Llano Grande State ParkWeslacoNow part of Estero Llano Grande Park; the Methodist Camp Thicketarea is covered with Ash, Mesquite, Cedar and Black Willow. Call:956-565-3919 for access. Directions: One mile S of Weslaco onFM 1015. Good for Valley specialties and migrants.

54 Mission Nature Park – MissionMission Nature Park has five miles of biking trails. No facilities. Di-rections: From US 83 in Mission, exit FM 1016 (Conway Ave.). TurnS and proceed 0.6 miles to park. There is a sign at the entrance onthe W side of the road before you cross the floodway. Good for Val-ley specialties and migrants.

55 National Butterfly Center – MissionThe center offers world-class outdoor butterfly garden and bird habi-tat with a new Visitors’ Pavilion. It is located on the Rio Grande Riverone mile E of Bentsen State Park. Admission: $10. Contact: 956-583-9009 Directions: W of Mission on US 83, exit S on InspirationRd. Turn W on Bus. 83 go under the expressway to the third light.Turn S on Schuerbach Rd. and travel 2.6 miles. Schuerbach Rd.becomes Butterfly Park Dr. Bird Species: 239 species in past fiveyears. Butterfly Species: 190 species recorded in the past 5 years,including ALL of the usual suspects, such as Red-bordered Pixie,Malachite, Mexican Bluewing, and Two-barred Flasher. In addition,true rarities seen include Broad-banded Swallowtail, Cross-barredWhite (First US record), Common Melwhite, Strophius Hairstreak,Cyna Blue (currently the only place in the US where you can expectto see this species), Erato Heliconian, Chestnut Crescent, Four-spotted Sailor (First US record), One-spotted Prepona (First USrecord), Blomfield’s Beauty, Angled Leafwing, Guatemalan Leafwing(2nd US record), Broad-tipped Clearwing (First US record), White-tipped and Turquoise Longtail (First US record).

56 Old Hidalgo Pumphouse - HidalgoAn original Historic Pumping Station; for the Valley’s vast irrigationsystem and the only one that remains in the Rio Grande Valleytoday. New hike and bike trails are available thru the adjacent fed-eral refuge and new hummingbird and butterfly gardens surroundthe museum. Contact Information: 956-843-8686 Address: 900 S2nd St., Hours: Mon-Fri, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun, 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Direc-tions: S from McAllen on 10th St. (SH336), curve into US 281(Coma St). Continue thru town to first traffic light at Bridge St. FollowPumphouse signs, L on Bridge, L on Flora and S onto 2nd St toPumphouse. Bird Species Include: Ringed and Green Kingfisher,Green Jay, Clay-colored Thrush, Altamira Oriole, Monk Parakeet,etc. The Pumphouse gardens attract birds and butterflies galore!

57 Old Port Isabel Road – CoastalDriving Tour: From US 77 S of Rancho Viejo, exit E on FM 511.Travel 6.7 miles on FM 511. Turn N on Old Port Isabel Rd. (streetsign on S side of road). Clear your trip odometer and go 0.5 miles.Cross RR tracks and check the Loma Alta Lake on your R. Continueto 1.9 miles, check pond on your L, then continue 2.6 miles andcheck pond on your L. Continue thru native brush and Yuccas 5.7miles and check canal as you cross over to TX 100. Bird Species:Aplomado Falcon, Cassin’s and Botteri’s Sparrow, Cactus Wren,Long-billed Curlew, and other coastal species.

58 Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park -BrownsvilleThis Historical Park offers a 3,400-acre expanse of coastal prairie.Several handicap-accessible paved walking trails are available,restrooms at the Visitors Center. Contact Information: 956-541-2785Address: 7200 Paredes Line Road. Hours: Trails are open daily 8a.m. - 4:30 p.m. The Visitors Center is actually open daily, 8 a.m.-5p.m. Directions: From US 77 S of Rancho Viejo, exit FM 511. TurnE on FM 511 and go 3.5 miles to FM 1847 (Paredes Line Rd.). TurnR into the parking lot. Bird Species Include: Harris’ Hawk, AplomadoFalcon, Groove-billed Ani, Common Pauraque, Chihuahuan Raven,Long-billed Thrasher. Good for butterflies.

59 PORT MANSFIELD NATURE TRAIL – Port MansfieldThe nature trail is 1.5 miles and crosses several habitat types in-cluding about 15 acres of ephemeral freshwater marsh supportingbrackish marsh plants (due to soil salinity). No facilities, hours, orfee. Fred Stone County Park, about 1 mile away, has restrooms.On the way to Port Mansfield, TX 186 crosses the Coastal SandSheet and numerous potholes and swales with fresh and inlandbrackish marshes (all private property). Owner: Willacy County Nav-igation District. Contact Information: 956-944-2325. Directions:From US 77 in Raymondville, go E about 24 mi. on TX 186 to PortMansfield. Nature trail is across from TPWD public boat ramp. BirdSpecies: Wildlife viewing and hiking, good for waders, shore birds,and water fowl, and could support some interesting butterflies.

60 Quinta Mazatlan – McAllenQuinta Mazatlan is a Historical 1935 Spanish Revival Style Adobemansion located on the grounds of McAllen’s urban nature & birdingsanctuary. The Historic landmark offers an art gallery, store, exhibitsand 20-acres of Tamaulipan Thorn Forest birding trails. Contact In-formation: 956-681-3370 Address: 600 Sunset Drive; Open Tues-Sat 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs until dark. Directions: Take US 83 to 10thSt. Exit and turn S onto 10th St., turn E on Sunset. Bird Species In-clude: Green Jay, Great Kiskadee, Common Pauraque, Buff-belliedHummingbird, Plain Chachalaca, Altamira Oriole, Clay-coloredThrush, Olive Sparrow, Curve-billed and Long-Billed Thrasher, andmigrants.

61 Rancho Lomitas – Rio Grande CityRancho Lomitas consists of 177 acres of native Tamaulipan Brush-land and includes an RV park with full hook-ups, camping facilities,restrooms, showers and a native plant nursery. Contact Informationand directions: Call Benito Trevino at 956-486-2576. Admission:$5.00/person, per day, to bird on your own or tours available. BirdSpecies Include: Audobon’s Oriole, Verdin, Black-throated Sparrow,Scaled Quail, Olive Sparrow, Ash-throated Flycatcher, LesserNighthawk, Common Pauraque, Bewick’s Wren, and CrestedCaracara. Good for butterflying.

62 Resaca de la Palma State Park - BrownsvilleOpen year-round seven days/week from 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Visitor Cen-ter open from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., $5 for adults/senior discounts/childrenunder 12 free, Texas State Park store offers bicycle and binocularrentals available, paved parking, picnic tables, tram tours, bath-rooms, nature trails, wheelchair accessible trails, three-mile pavedloop, and four scenic observation decks. This 1,200-acre park pro-tects a 4 mile Resaca flanked by a globally threatened plant com-munity, the Ebony-Anacua thorn forest. Wildlife can be foundyear-round in the old growth forest, savannah and wetland habitats.Contact Information: 956-350-2920 Address: 1000 New CarmenAve. Directions: From US 77/83 N of Brownsville, exit and turn Wonto FM1732; go 2.4 miles to New Carmen. Turn S 1.5 miles. Thepark’s entrance is located on E. Bird Species Include: CommonPauraque, Yellow-Green Vireo, Least Grebe, Green Kingfisher,White-tailed Kite, Altamira Oriole, Northern Beardless-Tyrannulet,Green Jay, Groove-billed Ani, Grey Hawk, Crested Caracara, andmore. Good for butterflies.

63 Rio Rico Road and Bluffs – MercedesThis is a Rio Grande River road with Riparian Woodlands alongbluffs and open area at Willacy County Pump Station. Directions:Take US 83 to Mercedes and exit S on FM 491. Travel 5.6 miles. AtHwy 281, turn E and go 0.4 miles to Rio Rico Rd. Turn S and go1.2 miles. Turn E on paved road and follow the river to the pumpstation. Bird Species: Green and Ringed Kingfisher, Least andAmerican Bittern, Sora, Osprey, Mottled Duck along river, and Trop-ical Kingbird.

64 Roma Bluffs - Roma An overlook deck on sandstone bluffs offers views into scenicMiguel Aleman, Mexico. The Visitors Center sits in the middle of a9-square block area designated as a National Historic LandmarkDistrict that contains over 30 structures built before 1900 – it has acourtyard/garden area for viewing birds. Contact Information: 956-849-4930 Hours: Open Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; winter months opendaily. Address: 610 N. Portscheller St. in the Historic Plaza. Direc-tions: From US 83 in Roma, take the Lincoln street exit (L lane) justafter the International Bridge exit. Go straight through the light andturn L after the second stop sign onto Portscheller St. It will be onthe L-hand side next to the small fountain and directly across theside street from City Hall. Bird Species Include: Muscovy Duck,Red-billed Pigeon, Clay-colored Thrush, Audubon’s Oriole, LesserGoldfinch, Belted, Green and Ringed Kingfisher. All four sides ofthe Plaza have been planted for butterflies!

65 Sabal Palm Audubon Center and Sanctuary – BrownsvilleThis 557-acre sanctuary has the largest remaining stand of SabalPalms in the Valley. The Riparian Woodlands and wetlands offergood views of birds and butterflies. Hours: Open daily/seven daysa week from 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Adults $5, Children $3. Con-tact: 956-541-8043. Directions: From US 77 N of Brownsville, exitE on FM 511. Proceed to end (FM 1419). Turn W on FM 1419; en-trance is on L, less than 1 mile. Follow entrance road to VisitorsCenter. Bird Species: Least Grebe, Ringed, Belted and Green King-fisher, Groove-billed Ani, Gray-crowned Yellowthroat (spring), Yel-low-green Vireo (summer), Long-billed Thrasher, Olive Sparrow,Altamira and Hooded Oriole, and Lesser Goldfinch. Good for but-terflies.

66 Sacahuista Flats-Port MansfieldThe grassland in this area is the preferred habitat for Botteri’s Spar-row. The old Mesquite that borders the road between The Flats andPort Mansfield is also an excellent habitat for many Valley special-ties. No facilities. Directions: From US 77 in Raymondville, turn Eon TX 186 and go 13.5 miles. From this point to Port Mansfield iscalled The Flats. Bird Species Include: Botteri’s Sparrow, Ferrugi-nous Pygmy-Owl, Couch’s Kingbird, and Aplomado Falcon.

67 Salineno Tract (Lower Rio Grande Valley National WildlifeRefuge) & DeWind’s Reserve – RomaThis is a riverfront tract and Valley Land Fund DeWind’s Reserve.No facilities. The area is surrounded by a chain link fence. Roll gateback to a closed position after entering, but do not enter if a “NoTrespassing” sign is on the gate. Hours: Open 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.daily by volunteers Nov-Mar. Contact: 956-784-7500. Directions:From US 83 W of Roma, turn L at sign for Salineno. At the fork goR and continue thru town past the Catholic Church, to the RioGrande River 60 yards back from river’s edge, is the DeWind’s Re-serve. Bird Species Include: Spotted, Western and Least Sandpiper,Golden-fronted and Ladder-backed Woodpecker, Brown and GreenJay, Bewick’s Wren, Black-crested Titmouse, Muscovy Duck, OliveSparrow, Red-billed Pigeon, Altamira, Audubon’s and Hooded Ori-ole.

68 San Augustin Park Reserve – Rio Grande CitySeveral miles of dirt driving trails are around the perimeter and in-terior of the park. A Riparian habitat of heavy second growth withrugged terrain and winding trails along the Rio Grande River. Thepark covers over 100 acres on the S side of US 83. No facilities.Hours: Open daily. Directions: 2.3 miles W of Rio Grande City onUS 83. Look for Zarsky Lumber on your R. Go 0.2 miles past ZarskyLumber and turn L at the curve into the reserve thru the opening inthe fence. No signage. Good for Valley specialties and butterflies.

69 San Miguelito Ranch – RaymondvilleThis is a privately-owned ranch in Willacy County. A large portionof the ranch is thorn brush and features several ponds. Contact In-formation: Call Letty Tijerina 956-369-3118 for daily fee and an ap-pointment. Directions: 15 miles N of Raymondville on US 77. BirdSpecies: Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl often nests at the ranch house,White-tailed Kite, White-tailed Hawk, Green Jay, Black-throatedSparrow, Olive Sparrow, Altramira and Hooded Oriole, Least Grebe,and Crested Caracara.

70 San Ygnacio Seedeater Preserve – RomaThis is a low-lying preserve in the cane along the Rio Grande River.No restrooms. A small RV park is located nearby. Admission: Do-nation box at end of Washington St. Directions: Continue W thruZapata on US 83 to the small historic village of San Ygnacio. TurnS on Uribe St. and then W on Aqua St. Park at the small “park.” Pro-ceed walking along Trevino St. to Washington St. Here you will findthe entrance to the sanctuary by proceeding down a steep slope toa small narrow trail cut into the cane to the L. The area to the R isnow off-limits due to the presence of Homeland Security – sensingdevices are installed and will send Border Patrol! Bird Species In-clude: White-collared Seedeater, Altamira, Hooded, Bullock’s andAudubon’s Oriole, Muscovy Duck, Red-billed Pigeon, Clay-coloredThrush, Zone-tailed Hawk, Green and Ringed Kingfisher.

71 Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge – AlamoThe refuge consists of 2,088 acres of undisturbed Riparian andTamaulipan Woodland and Resacas, the largest block of such habi-tat on the Rio Grande between Falcon Dam and Boca Chica. Over400 species of birds and 300 species of butterflies have beenrecorded. 40 foot viewing tower. Guided tours are available. Visitorscenter, exhibits, gift shop, snacks, restrooms and picnic area at site.Contact: 956-784-7500. Hours: The visitor center is open 8 a.m.-4p.m., seven days/week, year-round, tram runs daily from Nov-Aprand weekly throughout the rest of the year, calling ahead of time isrecommended. Hiking is allowed on trails year- round, sunrise tosunset. Bicycles are not allowed. Directions: Take US 83 to Alamoand turn S on FM 907 for 7.5 miles. At Hwy 281, turn E and go ap-prox., 0.25 mile. The refuge is on S side of Hwy. Look for signage.Bird Species Include: Least Grebe, Hook-billed Kite, Groove-billedAni, Common Pauraque, Buff-bellied Hummingbird, NorthernBeardless-Tyrannulet, Couch’s Kingbird, Scissor-tailed Flycatcher,Long-billed Thrasher, Olive Sparrow, Altamira Oriole, and Clay-col-ored Thrush.

72 Santa Margarita Ranch – RomaNo facilities. Do not get out of the car at the houses due to guarddogs. Residents of the ranch are not responsible for injuries sus-tained while on their property. Residents will show you where topark and walk to river. Admission: $2/person. Directions: From US83 W of Roma 5.7 miles, turn S on old US 83 Rd. Turn S onto thefirst unmarked dirt road after crossing the bridge. Continue 0.7 milesand take the W (R) fork. Continue 0.3 miles and take the S (L) fork.At the top of the hill where you can see the ranches houses, pro-ceed one mile. Go to the first house and honk your horn. If no onecomes out, go to the second house and park at the gate. Continueon foot to the river. Bird Species Include: Muscovy Duck (spring andsummer), Red-billed Pigeon, Common Pauraque, Belted, Ringedand Green Kingfisher, Cactus Wren, Long-billed Thrasher, OliveSparrow, Pyrrhuloxia, Altamira and Audubon’s Oriole, Black-throated Sparrow, Scaled Quail, Verdin, Brown Jay, and Elf Owl.

73 Santa Monica Driving Loop – Raymondville Driving Tour: From US 77 in Raymondville, exit TX 186 E and go to9.2 miles to FM 1420. Go S on FM 1420 for four miles. As you goaround the curve you will see a Caliche road that goes straight tothe E (look for a Citation Willamar Field sign). Follow this Calicheroad and observe the brushy habitat along the roadside. Follow thisroad for 4.2 miles to the intersection. Turn L at the intersection. Asthis road curves back to the S it will connect with the Old Paso RealStage Line on the Old Alice Trail. There is a historical marker at 1.4miles. Follow this road for 2.3 miles (you will see a levee immedi-ately ahead; travel is acceptable on the levee). Go R on the roadimmediately before the levee. At 2.4 miles you will come to FM1420. Turn N on FM 1420 for 1.7 miles to the sign before the curve.Pull to the side of the road to observe the large ponds on the R.Bird Species Include: Various migratory waterfowl and shorebirds.

74 Seedeater Inn Garden & B&B - Zapata Seedeater Inn is located in a mature section of the old town of Za-pata. Address: 1403 Kennedy St. Contact: 956-373-1080. BirdSpecies Include: Good for urban Valley specialties, and close to Za-pata Library a White-collared Seedeater hot spot.

75 South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center – CoastalFeatures an exhibit hall, 4,800 linear feet of wheelchair accessibleboardwalks on the Laguna Madre, seven bird blinds, auditorium,conference room, five story-observation tower with elevator, guidedtours, nature gift store, three waterfalls and saltwater and freshwatermarshes. Contact Information: 956243-8179 Address: 6801 PadreBlvd. Hours: The center is open daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. The boardwalksare open sunrise to sunset. Admission: Adults, $5; Seniors/Stu-dents, $4; children (ages 4-12) $2. Directions: From US Highway77 exit turn E on TX Highway 100 and proceed through Los Fresnosand Port Isabel over the causeway to the Island. Turn N on PadreBlvd and the Birding Nature Center is located 3 miles on the L, nextto the Convention Centre. Bird Species Include: Roseate Spoonbill,

Tricolored Heron, Reddish Egret, White Ibis, Black-necked Stilt, Wil-let, Least Bittern, Clapper Rail, Royal Tern, Caspian Tern, BlackSkimmer, and American Oystercatcher. Butterfly viewing among thenatural wildlife of coastal South Texas.

76 South Padre Island – CoastalThere are several spots to bird. At the black mangrove tidal flat onthe R as you come off the causeway, look for American Oyster-catcher and Black Skimmer. On the Bay side L of Padre Blvd.,check vacant wooded lots on Atol, Sheepshead, Retama,Campeche, Mesquite and Lantana Streets for migrants. The Con-vention Centre is 4 miles N of the causeway on Padre Blvd. Thisarea has several different habitats. Clapper, King and Virginia Railyear round, Sora, Black and Yellow Rail; spring, winter a PeregrineFalcon sits on water tower. View migrating warblers, tanagers, ori-oles, buntings and other birds. Behind Convention Centre is a tidalmud flat that produces Reddish Egret, Snowy, Wilson’s Semi-palmated and Piping Plover, Pectoral Sandpiper, Dunlin and StiltSandpiper, and Red-Breasted Merganser. During winter look forRing-billed, Laughing, Herring and Bonaparte’s Gull. In spring lookfor Black-bellied Plover, Ruddy Turnstone, Sanderling, Red Knot,and Caspian, Sandwich, Royal, Least and Forster’s Terns. The jet-ties on the S end at Isla Blanca Park (Admission: $4/car) is best forCommon Loon and Northern Gannet offshore in winter, and Mag-nificent Frigatebird in summer. Coastal birds may also be seen dur-ing bay trips. Keep your eyes open for butterflies. ContactInformation: 956-243-8179. Directions: From US 77, turn E on TX100. Proceed thru Los Fresnos, Port Isabel, and continue acrosscauseway to the Island.

77 TX 48 (Brownsville to Port Isabel Driving Tour) – CoastalDriving tour: This entire hwy. is covered in seasonal wetlands andfeatures the largest wetlands restoration project in the nation, BahiaGrande. From US 77 in Brownsville, exit TX 48 (Boca Chica) goingE. Turn L at International Blvd. (TX48). Clear your trip odometer asyou cross FM 511 and continue 15 miles to Port Isabel. E is a fleetof shrimp boats at five miles and a center barrier starts at six miles,a boat ramp at 7.9 miles. On the N side a yellow gate is the entranceto the most improved nature trails, restoration inflow channel thatfeeds Bahia Grande at 9.6 miles attracts shorebirds birds. On Nside, observation parking is provided at 9.8 miles. You can looparound the center barrier at 11 miles and enter the red gate or con-tinue. Check ponds behind HEB Grocery Store for Wood Storks(spring and fall), and White-tailed Hawks in the Yuccas.

78 TX 100 (US 77 to Port Isabel Driving Tour) – CoastalDriving Tour: From US 77 S of San Benito, exit E on TX 100; checkthe Resacas in the first 1.2 miles. Travel thru the city of Los Fresnos(observe speed limit). Ten miles E of Los Fresnos, seasonal wet-lands begin to continue into Laguna Vista. The S side of the road isthe new wetlands of the Bahia Grande. Also, check the mud flatsnear the water treatment plant on the W side of Laguna Vista andpower lines N side for raptors. Continue E on TX 100 thru LagunaHeights. On the far E side of Laguna Heights check the mud flatsacross the highway from Port Isabel High School. Bird Species In-clude: Aplomado Falcon, Gull-billed Tern, Harris’s Hawk, White–tailed Kite, and Chihuahuan Raven.

79 Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Coastal FisheriesField Station – BrownsvilleThis site has several ponds surrounded by trees and native habitatand a birding observation deck that overlooks one of the ponds. Nofacilities. Directions: From US 77 N of Brownsville, exit Stillman Rd.Stay on the service road and turn W on Fish Hatchery Rd. Proceedone mile to Field Stations.

80 Tiocano Lake (Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife

Refuge) – HarlingenTiocano Lake is an ephemeral lake extending from FM 733 E toPomelo Rd., from time to time. During wet seasons, the lake fills aconsiderable distance, attracting waterfowl and shorebirds. In dryseasons it contains very little water. Contact: 956.784-7500. Direc-tions: From US 83 W of Harlingen, Exit FM 733 (Kansas City Rd.),travel N on FM 733 approximately three miles to lake.

81 Valley Nature Center – WeslacoThis six-acre private nature park has one mile of interpreted trailsthru native Tamaulipan Woodland and a 0.50-acre wetland andboardwalk. Also on-site is an impressive brand new nature exhibithall, meeting room, restrooms and a book/gift shop. The Center islocated at 301 S Border St., in back of Gibson City Park. Contact:956-969-2475. Hours: Open year-round; Tues-Fri, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.,Sat, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun, 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Directions: From US 83 inWeslaco, turn S on FM 88 (Texas Blvd.). Go to Bus. 83 and turnW. Proceed to Border Ave. and turn S. to Center on L. Bird SpeciesInclude: Red-crowned Parrot, Green Parakeet, Buff-bellied Hum-mingbird, Lesser Goldfinch, and White-tipped Dove. Good for but-terflies and native plant nursery.

82 Vieh’s Ranch and B&B – San BenitoThis 15-acre ranch located three miles from Mexico and features a10-acre lake across back of property. Facilities are available. Over100 species recorded at this site. Contact Information: Call 956-425-4651 for permission to bird and/or for reservations. Directions:18413 Landrum Park Road Highway 675. Good for butterflies andValley specialties.

83 Weslaco Water Treatment Settling Basins – WeslacoThe diversity of birds depends on the amount of water in outlyingponds. No facilities. Directions: From US 83, exit Airport Dr. in Wes-laco and follow Airport Dr. N past Police Dept. and Fire Station. Turnleft, 0.2 miles, immediately past the canal on your L. Go to the Cityof Weslaco N Wastewater Plant office. Hours: Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.-5p.m. Let the office know that you want to look at the birds and theywill direct you to the parking area. Before and after hours follow Air-port Dr. to the gate at the hangars, park and walk to the levee onyour L. Good for local specialties.

84 Williams Wildscapes & Water Features – PharrThis is a 2.5- acre birding oasis located on a private residence withLive Oaks and native trees and brush, with several water features.Professional photographers are welcome! Please call ahead: 956-460-9864. Address: 750 W Sam Houston Boulevard. Admission:$10. Good for migrants and Valley specialties.

85 Yturria Tract (Lower Rio Grande Valley National WildlifeRefuge) – La JoyaA public information map is located at the one entrance to this tractand accessible by foot only. Enter only thru those points designatedon the public information map and do not go off the trails. Do notenter thru the gates, even if gate is open. Parking is available. Nofacilities. Contact: 956-784-7500. Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sun-set. Directions: From US 83 W of Mission, proceed W thru La Joya.Look for the public information map on US 83, 3.1 miles W of FM2221 in La Joya. Good for butterflies, local birds and migrants.

86 Zapata City Park/Birding Trail – RomaThe area is partially wooded and has a pond. This is often a goodlocation in the Lower Rio Grande Valley to find White-collaredSeedeater. No facilities. Directions: On US 83 from Roma, go W 40miles to Zapata. Turn W on 9th St. (stoplight) and proceed twoblocks to the park. Parking is at Zapata County Library. BirdSpecies: White-collared Seedeater, Cave Swallow, Say’s Phoebe(winter), and Cassin’s Sparrow.

Cameron County Sheriff’s Dept. 956-544-0860 • Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Dept. 956-383-8114 • Starr County Sheriff’s Dept. 956-487-5571 • Willacy County Sheriff’s Dept. 956-689-5576 • Zapata County Sheriff’s Dept. 956-765-9960

Hot Spots of the Rio Grande Valley