Activities & Attractions

Texas has five of the country's top 12 bird watching sites, and Port Aransas ranks near the top of the list. Thousands of migratory and resident birds can be seen at area birding locations. Migratory species such as hummingbirds, warblers, flycatchers and orioles (to name a few) join resident herons, gulls, egrets and roseate spoonbills on Mustang Island for a brief rest before taking flight for their spring and fall migration. In addition to bird and native South Texas plant life, the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center's boardwalk provides a popular viewing spot for more than 100 species on a given day and an opportunity to see "Boots," a six-foot alligator, who is occasionally basking in the sun. The Joan & Scott Holt Paradise Pond gives visitors the opportunity to watch and listen to birds and ducks from scenic, shaded viewing areas. Visitors to the Port Aransas Wetlands Habitat Park can use the popular boardwalk and gazebo for a fantastic view of shorebirds like plovers and egrets. All centers are free and open daily. The Port Aransas Chamber of Commerce and Tourist Bureau sponsors the popular Celebration of Whooping Cranes & Other Birds in February. 403 W. Cotter. 361/749-5919. www.portaransas.org/birds.html.