Edinburg, Mission to South Padre Island

We took a road trip north to the Edinburg Scenic Wetlands,  wherever there is water in a desert environment, there you will find the birds.  Many ducks were found, including the Green-winged Teal (pictured above).  The tiny Green Kingfisher posed for us in between diving for small fish.

Soft-shelled turtles fighting over an old tire floating in the pond

Belted Kingfisher

Bronzed Cowbird

He wasn't alone.  This is what we found when we went to lunch.

Ringed Kingfisher

Last tram ride around Bentsen RGV State Park, Ty asked the driver to stop for this Western Diamondback Rattlesnake.

Javelinas jousting for the last of the bird seed

White-tailed Hawk

Red-tailed Hawk

 As we leave Mission for the next 3 months, we found a flock of Monk Parakeets.  They have established themselves in big numbers in the Rio Grande Valley.

We crossed the causeway and bridge to South Padre Island and checked in at Isla Blanca County Park.  Listening to the waves every night is quite soothing compared to the noise of several contruction projects going on during the day at the park.

Brown Pelican

Black-necked Stilts, 2 adults and 2 young

Sea Hibiscus

American Kestrel

We went to the Birding Center a few miles up the road from us, we met up with a couple from Wisconsin who lead hikes there and asked if we would like to volunteer leading while here on the island.  We may start next week.

This Black-bellied Whistling Duck greeted us on the Boardwalk railing as we started our hike.

Reddish Egret

Little Blue Heron

American Wigeon getting blown about on the Laguna Madre

White Ibis preens feathers back into place

Pied-billed Grebe

Mangrove Warbler, subspeies of the Yellow Warbler

Merlin

Man-o-war Jellyfish stranded on the beach

Royal Tern

Pod of Dolphins in the Laguna Madre - baby leads the way

Baby takes a quick rest on Mom

Waving Good-bye

Seven foot Indigo Snake crossed our path at Sabal Palm Sanctuary

Long-billed Curlew on the road to Boca Chica

Gulf Coast Snowy Plover

New bird for the year - Chihuahuan Ravens

One week gone on SPI with 7 more to enjoy the beach.

Love & Prayers,
Ty & Ida Baumnn