A Natural Wonder in Texas

The Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for birders and outdoor enthusiasts who seek adventure throughout the season.

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Words by Steve Fennell

Birding is big in Texas. According to the National Audubon Society, the Lone Star State’s species list is close to 650 - ranking it the second highest in the U.S. behind California - and where enthusiasts can enjoy some of the most fascinating experiences in the U.S.

Not to be overshadowed by such known Texas birding destinations as Bolivar Flats, Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, and Big Bend National Park, The Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge is a 17,401 ha (43,000 ac) nature preserve where birding is king while fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing all tie for a close second. It’s these attractions that make it a prime day destination any time of the year.

Unique to the region and located south of Houston in Freeport on the Gulf Coast, the Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge consists of salt grass prairies, mud flats, fresh and saltwater marshes and various accessible lakes. It’s also part of the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail and is located along the Central Flyway. All combine to make it an attractive habitat for several coastal and trans-oceanic migratory species.

It’s approximately 40 to 50 minutes from popular RV parks like the Bluewater RV Resort in Freeport or the Stella Mare RV Resort in Galveston, and the Brazoria’s Discovery Center is a great way to start your experience. Located in the Big Slough Recreation Area, the facility has area maps and brochures while the interpretive displays provide additional information. Details about recent bird sightings are even available. Also, be sure to contact the Discovery Center for hours of operation before your visit.

While practically any season is a good time to ‘bird’ in the refuge, December and January are considered some of the best months to see impressive numbers of waterfowl. Species include ducks and sandhill cranes, 12-plus different kinds of sparrows, and various herons and egrets.

The white ibis, roseate spoonbill, white-tailed kite, clapper rail, and scissor-tailed flycatcher can also be commonly spotted. But wildlife isn’t limited to what soars overhead. The area is home to alligators, coyotes, bobcats and hawks, while turtles are commonly seen along the water’s edge.

For closer views, stroll on the boardwalk at the Discovery Center. It leads over a shallow slough, which is perfect to capture some still-life moments, or explore further on The Big Slough Trail.

This scenic pathway is less than 1.6 km (1 mi) and loops back to the boardwalk. It takes about 45 minutes and has rest stops with observation platforms along the way. Sunscreen, water, and insect repellant are always suggested and be sure to stay on the designated trail.

Other popular trails include Cox Lake Trail that is open all year, has a length of 0.9 km (0.6 mi) and is rated as easy. There’s also the Otter Slough Trail, which is open from January 2 to May 1 and has a length of 2.5 km (1.54 mi). Teal, Olney, and Rogers ponds are other nice areas in the refuge.

To enjoy the scenery and wildlife from the comfort of your towed (or tow) vehicle, the Big Slough Auto Tour is a 12 km (7.5 mi) gravel driving loop that consists of more than a dozen stops with ponds, crossings, picnic shelters, observation platforms, and more. View several alligators and other wildlife as well as resident birds like red-tailed hawks, northern harriers, and vultures.

If you’re an avid angler, there are designated areas for fishing including the Bastrop Bayou, Clay Banks, and Salt Lake. All three locations allow fishing along the banks, there’s a boat launch at Salt Lake (non-motorized boats only) and some of the species you can catch include spotted trout, red drum, croaker, sheepshead, flounder and blue crab. Nicks and Lost Lake are other popular options.

Cannan Bend Recreation Area, which is Brazoria’s newest natural attraction, is also open for fishing. The 12 ha (30 ac) freshwater lake has a maximum depth of 15 m (50 ft) and with a boat ramp to launch a canoe or kayak, you can increase your chances of catching crappie, sunfish, largemouth bass, and catfish. Fishing from the shore is permitted on the north side of the lake or on the fishing piers.

More birding can be enjoyed on the popular 8 ha (20 ac) Hickner Birding Trail on the east side of the lake. This nature-rich area leads through a coastal live oak forest and get your binoculars ready to spot migrating waterfowl, warblers, songbirds (the best months are March to April and September to October), woodpeckers, or sparrows.

Following a day outdoors, check out the shopping or dining options in Freeport, Galveston, Lake Jackson and Surfside Beach. or simply relax on the grounds of an RV park and start planning for a return trip to The Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge.

For more information visit www.fws.gov or www.traveltexas.com