The Guide to
Austin-area Birding Sites

Good places to see birds in and around Austin

Austin: A Unique Location

Within a sixty-mile radius of Austin, more than four hundred bird species have been recorded out of the over six hundred documented in the state of Texas. While this area may seem small for such a large number of birds to have been recorded, its geographic location explains the city's unique status as a hot destination for avid birders. Austin is situated along the Central Flyway, one of the four major avifaunal migration routes which criss-cross North America. Birds migrate through the Austin area almost year round (February – May and July – December). During spring, the widest variety of birds can be seen from mid-April through early May (including as many as 20 warbler species in a single day). In fall, the migration is more drawn out.

Birders also benefit from the unique geological and, subsequently, biological setting of Austin. Approximately forty million years ago, the Balcones Escarpment was formed along a fault zone which runs Northeast to Southwest through the western half of the city. The uplift resulted in the formation of two topographically unique provinces: to the west an uplifted plateau of limestone, now deeply eroded into steep sided, rocky hills (the Hill Country, also known as the Balcones Canyonlands), and to the east, the flat, lowland Blackland Prairie with broad valleys and gentle hills.

Each province harbors its own unique combination of soil, vegetation and animals, including distinct bird populations. Many bird species reach the edge of their distributional ranges near the Balcones Escarpment. Western species such as Golden-fronted Woodpecker, Ash-throated Flycatcher, and Western Scrub-Jay attain their eastern limit along the uplift while eastern species like the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Red-bellied Woodpecker, and the Eastern form of the Tufted Titmouse approach the edge of their nesting range. These bird species, among others, may be observed within several miles of the escarpment.

Texas weather can be hot and humid, so precautions need to be taken when venturing out to these birding sites. Some general guidelines include bringing sufficient water, wearing appropriate footgear on trails, wearing a hat in sunny weather, and remembering to wear sun screen and bug spray as needed. Most importantly, remember to have fun and enjoy seeing the birds!