I’m no birdwatcher, but I still have a lot of appreciation for our feathered friends. Whether you’re like me or you consider yourself an avid birder, you’ll love a trip to the World Birding Center in Texas. With nine sites spanning a 120-mile stretch of road in the Rio Grande Valley, this unique place is every nature lover’s dream.
The name “World Birding Center” is somewhat of a misnomer because it’s actually made up of nine separate sites within the Rio Grande Valley — one of the most diverse regions on earth.
You’ll find the headquarters for the center at Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park, but all nine sites are connected via a 120-mile historic river road.
This relatively small stretch of land from the town of Roma to South Padre Island is home to over 500 species of birds. My jaw nearly dropped to the floor when I first heard that!
The WBC includes three state parks - Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley, Estero Llano Grande, and Resaca de la Palma. Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley alone boasts over 350 bird species, attracting birdwatchers from all over the world.
Edinburg Scenic Wetlands World Birding Center, Harlingen Arroyo Colorado World Birding Center, and Quinta Mazatlan Historical Mansion and World Birding Center are all urban centers with gorgeous nature trails that emphasize the importance of being good stewards of the land. Kids love them!
As a history buff, one of my favorite World Birding Center sites is Old Hidalgo Pumphouse Museum and World Birding Center. You can still see the boilers once used to irrigate the surrounding farmland in the early 20th century!
Some of the best views can be found at Roma Bluffs World Birding Center and South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center. At Roma Bluffs, you can gaze across the International Bridge into Mexico!
South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center has a 5-story viewing platform that overlooks the pristine Laguna Madre Bay, and the sunsets are truly spectacular.
Visit the City of Mission website to learn more about the World Birding Center in Texas.
Have you ever visited this incredible place? If so, what birds did you see? Tell us in the comments! Check out REI if you need a good pair of binoculars. Happy birdwatching!
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