From golden eagles to roadrunners, Texas is a veritable bird’s nest of aviaries, trails and natural habitats. Check out these five great spots we winged in to see the feathered creatures in action.

CANYON OF THE EAGLES
This Hill Country destination on Lake Buchanan is all aflutter with bird action, including bald eagles (which nest here each winter), golden-cheeked warblers and black-capped vireo. The majority of the park’s 940 acres is an active nature and wildlife preserve, with 14 miles of hiking trails, as well as guided programs available through the on-site resort.
Lake Buchanan, Burnet County
512-334-2070
lcra.org

KING RANCH
Located in Kingsville, a well-honed nature program complete with half- and full-day birding tours is the draw at King Ranch. The area lays claim to the largest population of nesting ferruginous pygmy owls and tropical parula warblers in the U.S., and also sited the first damselfly species in the country.
Highway 141 West, Kingsville
361-592-8055
king-ranch.com

SOUTH TEXAS BOTANICAL GARDENS AND NATURE CENTER
Along the balmy Gulf, bird enthusiasts can maneuver several nature trails near Oso Creek for glimpses of feathered fowl such as the olive sparrow, groove-billed ani and Couch’s kingbird. Plus, visit the Gardens’ newly improved Anderson Bromeliad Conservatory for more than 40 breeds of exotic parrots and colorful birds.
8545 S. Staples, Corpus Christi
361-852-2100
stxbot.org

BIG BEND RANCH STATE PARK
This year-round Texas state park holds the record for its more than 300 documented winged species among 300,000 acres, including the greater roadrunner, black-tailed gnatcatcher, crissal thrasher and the black-throated sparrow. In March, the ranch hosts its annual Spring Break Adventure camping series, a family-oriented, three-night outdoor attraction.
Presidio, Presidio County
432-358-4444
tpwd.state.tx.us

BLANCO STATE PARK
With a new partially enclosed bird blind, complete with a water feature and up-close feeding opportunities, the state park’s 105- acre lot of trails and campsites is a prime nesting ground for species such as the painted bunting, summer tanager and great blue heron. If you’re staying overnight, hooting great horned owls will keep you company.
Blanco, Blanco County
830-833-4333
tpwd.state.tx.us