Birding in Texas

Birding is probably one of the most cosmopolitan outdoor activities in existence. By all accounts, the ranks of birders are growing. Formerly called “birdwatchers,” birders come from all walks of life, from doctors to lawyers, teachers, policemen, corporate executives, truck drivers, merchants, young children, young marrieds and senior citizens. There are as many varieties of birders as there are birds. They range from intense perfectionists who travel the globe at the drop of a hat to see a species never seen, to the casual weekend hobbyist who enjoys watching the neighborhood birds at a backyard feeder or nearby greenbelt.

What is the appeal? Why do so many people enjoy this activity? While each individual birder may focus on different aspects of the pastime, I think all will agree, birding fulfills many of our basic criteria for what makes for good outdoor recreation. Birds appeal to our sense of aesthetics. Birds are beautiful and dazzling to the eye. Their complex behavior is intriguing and their songs are varied, evocative and very pleasing to the ear.

Birds occur in a wide variety of places and are abroad both night and day. Birdwatching is something you can do while doing other things, working in the backyard, tending the garden, walking or jogging in the park, while at work or from a kitchen window. Birds can brighten up the day and break the monotony of a dull routine.

Explore the information in these pages to learn more about where to bird, activities and events open to birdwatchers throughout the State, bird and conservation facts and information, checklists and identification materials, land management information for landowners and even some fun kids’ activities. We hope that the information you find here is helpful and that it better equips you to enjoy the birdiest state in the nation!