The Texas Hill Country landscape is most notable for rugged hills, deep caverns, and winding rivers. Tourists come from far and wide to enjoy activities such as fly-fishing, hunting, and river rafting. However, there is one Hill Country activity that tends to fly under the radar – bird watching. The Texas Hill Country is a paradise for birders! Keep reading for helpful tips and resources for your next birdwatching adventure!
Common Backyard Birds in Texas
Texas Parks and Wildlife offers a downloadable PDF guide for common Backyard Birds in Texas. The TPWD field guide includes pictures and tips for birdwatching such as how to station yourself for optimal viewing, techniques for consistent identification, and using habitat characteristics to rule out a species. You won’t have to wait until your visit to the Hill Country to start birding – most of these birds can be spotted anywhere in Texas!
Click here for the downloadable PDF guide on Common Backyard Birds in Texas.
Birdwatching Spots in the Texas Hill Country
Guadalupe River State Park
Guadalupe River State Park has 240 documented bird species within Park lands and is the breeding habitat for the elusive and endangered Golden-cheeked Warbler.
Golden-cheeked Warbler
The endangered Golden-cheeked Warbler, also known as the gold finch of Texas, breeds in Central Texas, from Palo Pinto County southwestward along the eastern and southern edge of the Edwards Plateau to Kinney County. The golden-cheeked warbler is the only bird species with a breeding range confined to Texas.
Click here for the Birds of Guadalupe River State Park checklist.
Landa Park in New Braunfels, Texas
Grab your binoculars and head to Landa Park in New Braunfels, Texas. The scenic park features centuries-old oak trees and is a year-round haven for a large variety of bird species.
Click here for the Landa Park Bird Guide.
Overlook Park at Canyon Lake
Overlook Park features a hilltop near the south end of Canyon Dam. The park is open year-round and offers plenty of opportunity for bird sighting. Look for up to 50 bird species including gulls, geese, Osprey, Raptors, Ravens, Sparrows, Wrens, Warblers, Waterfowl, Spotted Sandpipers, and Willets.
For a complete guide to Overlook Park birding, click here.
Canyon Lake Dam and Nature Trail
If you find yourself in the Canyon Lake area with a few hours to spare, stop by this sweet birdwatching spot for a peaceful hike with Guadalupe River views.
Click here for a guide to birdwatching at Canyon Lake Dam and Nature Trail.
Click here for recent bird sightings at Canyon Lake Dam and Nature Trail.
