Perhaps the real draws of Austin birding are those very-rare-elsewhere Golden-cheeked Warblers and Black-capped Vireos, but birds of all types gather here in droves, and not only in the state parks and preserves. Some of the other rare birds you might see here (if you're lucky) are the Northern Jacana, the Spotted Redshank, and the Red Phalarope, although, unlike the Golden-cheeked Warbler, these aren't necessarily endangered, just rare in the United States.

Some of the birds you can definitely expect to find in Austin are the Ruby-crowned Kinglet, the Red-shouldered Hawk, the Barred Owl, the Belted Kingfisher, and the Green Heron. Look out for Monk Parakeets as well. In the winter, watch for Buffleheads and Double-crested Cormorants on the water, and for the Osprey overhead. In the summer, look for Dickcissels, Painted Buntings, and Yellow-billed Cuckoos in the trees.

Birding Sites