Texas birding recommendations

[Dr. John]

We will be going to San Antonio for a conference in mid-September. We plan to arrive early to do some touring around the state. We enjoy birdwatching and plan to do some (along with other activities), but are not so ardent that we keep lifelists or go to a specific location just to catch a glimpse of a rare species. We expect to hit areas such as the Gulf Coast, the Rio Grade Valley, and the Big Bend area. We looking for any specific recommendations for locations to go in early September and also recommendations for any bird watching tours or guides (for just day tours, not specific multi-day trips). Also, which of the Texas birding books would you recommend as there appear to be a few available.

[Leslie Kinrys]

You could visit the raptor watch at Hazel Bazemore Park in Corpus Christi. Besides seeing large numbers of migrating raptors, there are lots of interesting birds hanging around the counters' platform. The folks are very friendly there. Also, we visited the King Ranch. You can book a birding tour or a nature tour there, plus you get to see a working ranch. Take a look at the birdingpal site. You may be able to find a pal willing to take you out birding. Enjoy the trip.

[GStuart]

I would recommend the ABA / Lane guide "A Birder's Guide to the Rio Grande Valley" which covers San Antonio and the Edwards Plateau in addition to the Rio Grande from the coast to Big Bend.

Within a few hours' drive of San Antonio is Lost Maples State Natural Area, but the peak colour season (well, color season in the States) is October, although the birding should still be good.  Kickapoo Cavern State Park has good birding and the bats should still be around until October if you wish to watch their nightly exodus.  Unfortunately, the park has weird open days (I think it's open Friday to Monday, only).

[Dr. John]

Thanks a lot for the suggestions!

[bosh]

I have only birded in the Rio Grande Valley area but here are my recs:  Estero Llano Grande State Park near McAllen is good if you want to rack up a ton of species - it has a good variety of habitats.  Bentsen State Park (also near McAllen) will probably be hopping with migrants at that time.  I would also head to South Padre Island where there is a birding center with a nice boardwalk.