Permian Basin East Loop

0.7 miles east of Hwy 385, along SE Ave. E in Andrews or 0.2 miles south of SH 115/176, along SE Mustang Dr., then back east on SE Ave. about 1,000 feet.

A 0.2-mile walking trail meanders to the Andrews Bird Viewing Area. The site is along the North American Migratory route for birds flying from Canada/Central U.S. through the Texas Panhandle to South Texas, Mexico and Central America. Over 30 species of birds have been spotted by bird enthusiasts, including Cattle Egrets, Great Blue Heron, pelicans, Red-wing Blackbirds, and Osprey. Fortunate visitors may also see mule deer, fox, javelina and even a bobcat.

www.cityofandrews.org

There are two entrances to the park. One is located on West County Rd. near the intersection of Clements St. and West County Rd., and the other is off of the south service road of I-20, near the intersection of I-20 and Hwy 385.

Comanche Trail Park contains a linear asphalt 6-foot-wide walkway that is 1.3 miles in length, starting at the West Country Rd. entrance and terminating at the pond near the I-20 entrance to the park. Approximately half of this trail system is located in undeveloped draw area of park site that provides a natural habitat for birding.

Winter offers multi-species flocks of birds from the Rocky Mountains such as the Red-breasted Nuthatch, Brown Creeper, Golden-crowned and Ruby-crowned Kinglets, Lesser and American Goldfinches, Pine Siskins, Yellow-rumped and Orange-crowned Warblers, and White-crowned Sparrows. Spring migration in the forest is an excellent "migrant trap" for many species of warblers, grosbeaks, tanagers, buntings, and sparrows. Summer nesters and residents include Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Lesser Goldfinch, Curve-billed Thrasher, Cactus Wren, Painted Bunting, Blue Grosbeak, Black-chinned Hummingbird, and Lark Sparrows. Fall migration brings in the warblers. The first week in October is also when the monarch butterflies will sometimes gather in huge numbers (thousands) and spend the night in the trees.

www.odessa-tx.gov/564/Hike-Bike-Trailshttps://www.mybigspring.com/336/Comanche-Trail-Park

From the east on I-20 take Midkiff Rd. exit 134 in Midland. Stay on north service road heading west 1.7 miles. Located between S. Warehouse Rd. and S. Midland Dr. on the north service road of I-20.

The I-20 Wildlife Preserve, located in Midland, is 86 acres of urban playa habitat that is essential to the survival of local bird populations, native wildlife, and thousands of migratory birds. It is located in the West Central Flyway where migrating birds, waterfowl, and butterflies can be seen throughout the year. The 3.4 miles of trails and viewing platforms provide visitors access to enjoy wildlife feeding in the playa. The trails include canopy walks, boardwalks, bridges, bird blinds, photography blinds, hawk tower, and butterfly and hummingbird paths. Developed site is ADA accessible.

432-853-9453
https://www.i20wp.org/

Go north 2.4 miles on US 349 from I-20 and go past downtown Midland. Turn left on Cuthbert and go .2 miles to A St.

Wintering ducks often use the park. Bufflehead, Wigeon, and Shoveler are common. White Pelicans, gulls, and Canada Geese are sometimes present in winter. Groups of robins, bluebirds, and nuthatches can be found in the park's trees.

From Loop 250 in Midland take the Old Lamesa Rd. exit. Go south 1 mile and turn left on Wadley. Go .2 miles and turn left at second entrance to Hogan Park. The Sibley building is on the corner.

The trees at the edge of the playa along Sibley's nature trail are a migrant trap both spring and fall. The trees in Hogan Park often have bluebirds and various woodpeckers in winter. Year-round residents include Greater Roadrunner, Pyrrhuloxia, Cactus Wren, Curve-billed Thrasher, and Cassin's Sparrow.

(432) 684-6827
www.sibleynaturecenter.org