Birds
Not only do the Central and Mississippi flyways meet here, but the most southern
tip of Texas is also the northernmost range for many bird species. This,
combined with the climate (temperate, desert, coastal and sub-tropical), is what
makes the Valley an international birding favorite. Nearly 500 species,
including neotropical migratory birds, shorebirds, raptors, and waterfowl, can
be found here. The plain chachalaca, green jay, great kiskadee, least grebe, and
many other species exclusive to this area establish LRGV as one of the premier
birding refuges in the nation. More detailed bird information can be found here:
Butterflies
Zebra longwings, Julias, and Mexican bluewings are but a few of the 300+
butterfly species that make South Texas a must for butterfly enthusiasts. Peak
diversity falls between October and December. A single October day has been
known to produce a tremendous 65 documented species!
Other Wildlife
The diversity of habitat in the lower Rio Grande Valley has resulted in a
diversity of wildlife. The speckled racer, southern yellow bat, Kemp's ridley
turtle, white-tailed deer, and collared peccary are but a few of the species
found in the lower four counties of Texas. The endangered ocelot that once
roamed eastern, central and southern portions of Texas today exists mainly in
the South Texas brush lands. Because 95% of the vegetation in the Valley has
been cleared or altered, LRGV is a crucial link in the effort to protect the
region’s tremendous biodiversity.
Habitat
Eleven unique plant and animal communities are found in the four most southern
counties of Texas. Once completed, LRGV will be made up of anywhere from 2,000
to 20,000 acres of each identified community. Coastal barrier islands, resacas
(oxbow lakes), desert-like brushlands, riverside woodlands, and caliche
hillsides play host to a variety of plant and animal life. Native brush and
trees include mesquite, sabal palm, Texas ebony, prickly pear, and Montezuma
bald cypress.
Volunteering at the Refuge
