Where to Find It
The Birding Center can be found on the South end of Ross Ave., down the street from the Community Park. Pollinator gardens, a large mural, bird drips, and educational signage flank the entrance to the site.
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Where: 1356 Ross Ave, near the Port Aransas Community Park, just down the street from the community park adjacent to the Nueces County Water District treatment plant. Pollinator gardens, a large mural, and educational signage flank the entrance to the site.
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Entry: Free and open daily from sunrise to sunset—ideal for both early birders and sunset watchers
What to Expect
With 1,250 feet of boardwalk and two shaded observation towers, visitors will have expansive views of the freshwater marsh. This marsh is fed by the Nueces County Water District treatment plant and all of the diverse wildlife it attracts. One tower is wheelchair accessible with a ramp, and the other has stairs. There is a trail off this boardwalk that connects to the South Trail at the Nature Preserve at Charlie's Pasture. From the Birding Center parking area to the Charlie's Pasture South Parking area, the trail length is 1.5 miles. From the Birding Center parking area to the observation tower on the South Trail is ~0.75 miles.
What to Look For
Visitors often see a large American alligator nicknamed “Boots” at this location, along with ducks, pelicans, wading birds, and songbirds. From the observation platform, look for waterfowl (Black-bellied Whistling-Duck, Cinnamon Teal), grebes (Least included), herons and egrets, cormorants, shorebirds (such as Black-necked Stilt), flaming pink Roseate Spoonbills, the Port Aransas city bird. The parking area and land along the boardwalk are planted with native species, so be alert for hummingbirds, warblers, and other songbirds during migration.
Join naturalist-led sessions every Wednesday at 9 a.m. with guides like Ray Dillahunty and Leslie Hoesktra. Binoculars are available for loan. It’s a family-friendly, educational experience suitable for all skill levels
