The Upper Texas Coast stands as one of North America’s most extraordinary birding destinations, where the convergence of diverse habitats creates a natural funnel for millions of migrating birds. Stretching from Galveston Bay north to the Louisiana border, this region offers unparalleled opportunities to witness some of the continent’s most spectacular avian phenomena.

The region serves as a critical stopover point along the Central and Mississippi Flyways, two of North America’s four major migratory routes. Birds traveling between their breeding grounds in North America and wintering areas in Central and South America must cross the Gulf, a grueling 600-mile journey over open water. The Texas coast represents their first landfall, making it a concentration point for exhausted migrants seeking food and rest.

The area’s diverse habitats including coastal flats, prairies, marshes and beaches are also home to an abundance of bird species. The coastal flats and beaches host a variety of wintering and migratory shorebirds while the freshwater marshes provide habitat for rails, gallinules, bitterns, and ducks.

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The region exemplifies the magic of birding; where geography, weather, and timing converge to create experiences that can transform casual observers into lifelong enthusiasts. Whether you are seeking your first Roseate Spoonbill or hoping to add a Scarlet Tanager to your life list, the Upper Texas Coast delivers birding adventures that create lasting memories and deeper appreciation for birds and their migration journey.

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*We usually combine the tours for this destination with a day or two of birding in the East Texas Pineywoods, which includes the Big Thicket.