Spring Migration on the Upper Texas Coast

Spring arrives early on the Upper Texas Coast with some spring migrants moving through in early March. By mid-April spring migration is in full swing with the possibility of great birding throughout the Upper Texas Coast. Traditionally the peak week for spring migration at High Island is the last week of April, but many years the birding is spectacular both in early April and early May. Galveston FeatherFest, held every year in April offers spectacular coastal birding opportunities with expert leaders.

Urban Birding

Depending on weather conditions, spring migrants can be common with Houston's city limits. Some of the best locations for urban birding include Houston Audubon's Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary in west Houston, Bear Creek Park in west Houston, Russ Pitman Park in Bellaire as well as other city parks and wooded neighborhoods.

High Island

To many, spring migration on the Upper Texas Coast is synonymous with Houston Audubon's sanctuaries at High Island. Birders from all over the world return to High Island each spring to participate in the unique High Island experience. Our shorebird sanctuaries on the Bolivar Peninsula are equally famous. Among the many other excellent coastal locations for spring migrants on the coast are Dos Vacas Muertas Sanctuary on Galveston Island and Anahuac NWR on the Bolivar Peninsula.

Katy Prairie

To experience spring birding west of Houston as well as spring wildflowers, favorite destination are the the Katy Prairie, Brazos Bend State Park, and Attwater Prairie Chicken NWR.

Hummingbirds

Hummingbird migration occurs March through May. Numbers are not as high as in the fall.

Purple Martins and Chimney Swifts

Purple Martins are busy with nesting activities, and Chimney Swifts show up in early to mid-March on the Upper Texas Coast. Houston Audubon's swift counts begin in late March.