Wildlife Safety in Port Aransas

Keep the Wildlife Wild

From from crabs on the beach to the local alligator named Boots, Port Aransas is home to incredible wildlife experiences. One thing that makes Port A such a unique place is how close the people are to the wildlife in the area. It’s important to know how to keep the animals and the people in Port Aransas safe as they coexist on this island together. With these natural wonders comes the responsibility to protect both animals and ourselves. Here's how to stay safe and be respectful while enjoying the island's unique wildlife.

Safety Tips:

  • Pick up all trash. Animals can eat trash and get stuck in cups or plastic, causing them to become sick or injured.
  • Do not pet any wildlife. Animals are wild and may bite, sting, or hurt you or themselves.
  • Do not feed wildlife. Animals need to stay wild, and eating human food can make them sick and dependent on humans for survival.
  • Keep your dogs on a leash at all times in Port Aransas to ensure they stay close to you and out of harm's way.
  • Many species of snakes, including poisonous ones, make their home in the dunes. Keep pets and children away from the dunes to ensure the safety of everyone.

Dune Safety

The sand dunes lining the coast are not only a signature feature of Port Aransas and Mustang Island, but also an important one. Read more about the dunes and how to aid in their conservation here.

Conservation

Protection and preservation of the Port Aransas way of life is about more than just the people who live there. Port A is home to a myriad of coastal wildlife, vegetation, and landscapes that contribute to the island’s ecosystem…

Turtles

The shores of Port Aransas are well-known for being home to a variety of sea turtles, including the endangered Kemp’s Ridley. Protection of these turtles and their nests is crucial, and you can read about those protection efforts…

Sea Turtle Safety

  • Watch for nesting turtles and hatchlings, especially from April to July

  • Do not touch or disturb turtles or nests—it's illegal and harmful

  • Report turtle sightings to Sea Turtle Rescue Hotline: (866) 887-8535

Dolphin Etiquette

  • Enjoy from a safe distance—never chase, touch, or feed dolphins

  • Use binoculars or zoom lenses for better viewing

  • Feeding wild dolphins can change their behavior and is a federal offense

Birdwatching Best Practices

  • Port Aransas is a top birding destination—bring binoculars, not breadcrumbs!

  • Avoid disturbing nests and roosting areas, especially during migration and breeding seasons

  • Stay on marked trails at birding centers and preserves

Visit spots like Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center and Mustang Island State Park for safe, respectful wildlife viewing.

Coyote Awareness

  • Keep pets leashed and food secured

  • Never feed coyotes—this encourages risky behavior

  • Make noise to scare them off if encountered

See the Coyote Safety Page for full tips.