Please note: Harris County Flood Control District is working at ELMNS on February 4-10 to remove obstructions to the flow of Rummel Creek. Most of the work will be performed along the creek bank, cleaning up debris and removing dead or obstructive trees and shrubs. Visitors should be aware and avoid any areas where work is being done.
Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary is privately owned and managed by Houston Audubon. Our small sanctuary offers walking trails, birding (including a livestreaming bird camera), educational programs, and a unique look into the history of our neighborhood. We are also the location of Houston Audubon Headquarters and the Natives Nursery.
Because we are a conservation property for wildlife and birds, we have slightly different rules (listed in the right sidebar) from city and county parks. We appreciate your help to keep Edith L. Moore a quiet respite for humans and animals alike.
Groups of 10 or more are required to schedule their visit in advance with staff to protect the integrity of the sanctuary and prevent conflict with programming or other events. You can reach us at (713) 932-1639 or info@houstonaudubon.org
Click here if you'd like a guided tour.
Nature Shop
Shop our Nature Shop when you stop by Edith Moore! We’ve recently added new merch, including a new Bird of Houston t-shirt celebrating the Yellow-crowned Night-Heron. All proceeds go towards protecting birds and their habitats in the Greater Houston Gulf Coast region. The Nature Shop is currently located in the admin building and open between the hours of 9 am– 3 pm Monday-Friday.
Lost your items at the sanctuary?
We occasionally find treasures on the trails that were accidentally left behind by visitors. If you've lost something at ELMNS, please email info@houstonaudubon.org or call 713-932-1639 during business hours. All found items will be held for 30 days.
Restroom Availability
The cabin restroom is open when staff are on-site, typically Monday through Saturday, mornings through early afternoons. This schedule helps ensure a staff presence to protect the sanctuary and prevent vandalism.
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Admission
We are proud to have Edith L. Moore open to the public for free. Your membership and donations are greatly appreciated so we can continue to do so!
We welcome your visit, but please remember groups of 10 or more need to request a guided tour. No homeschool classes, advertised social gatherings, memorial services, ceremonies, sales, or similar events are allowed without prior approval. To request a tour or request more information about options for homeschool classes, scouts and other groups please contact info@houstonaudubon.org.
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Location and Hours
The sanctuary is open 7 AM to 7 PM daily. Gates unlock and lock automatically on a timer. Cars in the Wilchester lot after closing cannot exit until gates open the following morning.
Location: 440 Wilchester Blvd., Houston, TX 77079
Access and parking is available at the sanctuary's east gate in the Memorial Drive United Methodist Church parking lot (12955 Memorial). See map below for location.
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Trails
We have approximately 1.5 miles of trails which vary from flat and accessible to steeper inclines and steps. Explore on your own or use our guides below. Maps are posted trailside periodically throughout the sanctuary.
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Birding & Bird Cam
Almost 200 species of bird have been sighted at Edith L. Moore over the years. In addition to our resident birds, seasonal migrants can be found feeding and resting before continuing their journey.
- Live BirdCam located in the cabin garden
- eBird Hotspot See recent sightings reported by other birders
- Bird Checklist (PDF) Download or print a paper checklist
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Portrait Photography
Professional and portrait session rules and registration can be found here.
Wildlife photography and candid phone photos/selfies are encouraged and do not require a permit.
