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Edith Moore

Rules

Edith L. Moore is a wildlife sanctuary and not suitable for many activities you would find at other parks and natural areas. In order to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment please familiarize yourself with and follow the rules.

  • Stay on the trail

    Ants, snakes, poison ivy, and dangerous terrain are present in all unimproved parts of the property

  • No dogs or other pets
  • No smoking or vaping of any kind
  • Alcohol is prohibited
  • Respect wildlife

    No feeding animals, no collecting wild animals or releasing domestic/captured animals, no flipping rocks or dip netting

  • Respect the peace

    No speakerphone calls or music without headphones, no livestreaming

  • No bikes on trails

    A bike rack is located between the cabin and the admin building

  • Leave nature as you found it

    No cutting of plants, no disturbing rocks on trails or in the creek, no digging, no building temporary or permanent shelters, wildlife “habitats” or art installations

  • Leave no waste

    Carry out all trash including fruit peels. Trash cans are not available. Do not bring yard waste, pumpkins, Christmas trees, wreaths, or garlands to the sanctuary for disposal.

  • Use of laser pointers, playback devices, and pishing is prohibited at all times
  • Firearms are prohibited
  • No fires, grills, or stoves
  • No camping or overnight parking

Visitor Information

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 left sidebar) from city and county parks. We appreciate your help to keep Edith L. Moore a quiet respite for humans and animals alike.

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!

COVID-19 Response: We strongly encourage wearing masks and social distancing at all Houston Audubon sanctuaries and programs. Please read and follow all signage regarding sanctuary rules and safety guidelines.  Learn more about our health and safety policies.

Hours: The sanctuary is open Monday through Saturday from 7 AM to 7 PM. Sunday hours are 9 AM - 5 PM. Gates unlock and lock automatically on a timer. Cars in the Wilchester lot after closing cannot exit until gates open the following morning. 

We welcome your visit, but please remember groups over 7 should register for a self-guided tour, and groups over 20 require prior written approval. There are no homeschool classes, advertised social gatherings, memorial services, ceremonies, sales, or similar events allowed without prior approval from the sanctuary manager.

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.

Contact: (713) 932-1639 or info@houstonaudubon.org

Natives Nursery: We are selling plants online for Friday morning pick-ups, but the nursery itself remains closed to the public. Learn more about the Natives Nursery and place an order. 

Large groups must pre-register

Groups of more than 6 (maximum 20) may use the self-guided tour registration. Groups of 20 or more should contact the sanctuary manager directly for options, including homeschool, scouts, and other kids groups. Register here for a self-guided tour.

Sanctuary Manager: Berri Moffett bmoffett@houstonaudubon.org

Portrait photography permit required

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.

Programs

  • This fun and engaging class is for curious children ages 3-5. This program focuses on the animals and plants that call the Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary home.

  • For families of elementary-aged children (ages 5-11). Younger siblings monitored by guardians are welcome.

  • Enjoy Saturday morning hospitality inside our cozy little cabin in the woods! From October to December, join us for a steaming cup of coffee or tea and a treat on the first three Saturdays of the month, 9-11 AM.

  • Experience the sanctuary after hours and in the dark. “HOO” knows what kinds of critters will emerge when the sun goes down... Join us for a frightfully good time in the forest! These hikes are family-friendly but geared for children 6 and above.

  • Awesome Avian Adventures for all grade levels K-12. Tours include activities and interactions with live birds.

  • Join us for mindfulness classes led by instructor Heather Sullivan.

  • Spring Break, Summer and Winter Camps are held at the sanctuary

  • Free 2-hour walks held during spring migration.

Birding

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.

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.

History

Donated by Edith L. Moore in 1975, the 17.5 acres of property and log home are the heart of Houston Audubon and a well-loved part of Rustling Pines and surrounding neighborhoods.

Contact Berri Moffett at bmoffett@houstonaudubon.org with any questions.

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