Laguna Atascosa NWR - Texas Gulf Coast

Although I may perspire a bit or causally rub an itch, I don’t usually “sweat” or vigorously scratch in public. Both, however, are now part of my persona thanks to the chiggers and high humidity here in south Texas. Erv and I were looking for a warm winter spot but, arriving in early October, we got more than we bargained for with 90+ degrees and 90% humidity… OK, I’m exaggerating a bit but that’s what it feels like. On the other hand, we know the weather will improve and the birds and wildlife are great.
In the last day we’ve seen coyote, Javalina (a small wild pig in appearance but actually a collared peccary), deer, raccoon and armadillo within 20 yards of our motor home. Fortunately snakes and alligators have been seen at a greater distance. And the birds – amazing in variety and quantity! In one tiny wetland pond we saw lovely roseate spoonbills (pink like flamingos), wood stork, egrets, heron, avocet and curlew. Nearby were a variety of other shorebirds and ducks (including Black-bellied Whistling ducks with bright red bills and pink feet and American Wigeons sporting buff “Mohawks” atop a grey head with green cheek patches). Children’s art mimics nature at her most colorful!
Coming to the feeders at the visitor’s center are brilliant green jays and orioles and noisy chachalacas ( large rather prehistoric looking birds resembling a hybrid of turkey and roadrunner) and other neo tropic birds. Guess you have to bear tropical weather for tropical flora and fauna! We’re like kids in a candy store enjoying the abundance and variety of life here at the Laguna Atascosa Fish and Wildlife Refuge.
Less than a half hour away is South Padre Island, part of the Gulf’s barrier island system. It’s a lovely strip of land with long beaches bordering the gulf on one side and Laguna Madre on the other. Dolphins and pelicans are frequently seen, fishermen abound and the large fresh shrimp are a treat. Best of all, South Padre is a mecca for migrating and overwintering birds. We’ve begun volunteering Sunday mornings at the Texas World Birding Center (“ask me” guides along the boardwalk) for the opportunity to regularly see and photograph the birds. We’ll be here through the end of the year and anticipate a good three months.