North Beach

Planning a visit to North Beach—home to the Texas State Aquarium and USS Lexington—during the ongoing bridge improvements? Read here for everything you need to know, and be sure to check out our pinned Instagram post for helpful visuals. 

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Birding in Corpus Christi

For two decades, Corpus Christi has been recognized as the “Birdiest City in America.” Thanks to the presence of protected environments encompassing saltwater lagoons, marshes, and coastal grasslands, Corpus Christi offers a year-round haven for hundreds of bird species. Every year, bird enthusiasts from around the world flock to Corpus Christi to witness the nesting, feeding, wading, and flight of some of the country’s most interesting birds, creating a rich and ever-changing tapestry of birdlife in the heart of the Gulf Coast Capital.

  • Corpus Christi is located along the Central Flyway, and is considered one of the best birding destinations in North America. Its coastal location, wetlands, and varied ecosystems attract hundreds of migratory and resident species each year, making it a must-visit for serious birders and casual nature lovers alike. The region has even earned the nickname "The Birdiest City in America" due to the sheer number of species recorded here. 

  • The peak seasons for birding are Spring (March–May) and Fall (September–November) when migration is in full swing. During these times, you can see everything from warblers and hummingbirds to raptors and coastal waders. Winter also offers great birding opportunities, especially for species like whooping cranes. Check out our Birding Through the Seasons Guide for more information to determine the best time for your birding adventure. 

  • Corpus Christi offers a wide range of habitats, and some of the best birding spots include:

    Each site offers different viewing experiences, from open boardwalks to quiet trails through native brush. Read on to see where to find the best birding spots in Corpus Christi.

  • Most birding spots in Corpus Christi are free and open to the public. Some, like Padre Island National Seashore or Mustang Island State Park, may require a day-use or entrance fee. Check each location's website or signage for access rules before visiting.

  • Depending on the time of year, you might spot:

    • Whooping cranes 
    • Roseate spoonbills
    • Ospreys and hawks
    • Warblers and hummingbirds during migration
    • Herons, egrets, and pelicans year-round

    Corpus Christi’s blend of salt marshes, grasslands, woodlands, and tidal flats means you’ll find both coastal and inland species in close proximity. Keep in mind that bird species vary, and sightings are not guaranteed. For a list of the most common birds spotted in Nueces County, check out E-bird's list

  • Tours

    Nature Trails Kayaking 

    Certified guides at Nature Trails Kayaking lead eco-friendly paddles along Hazel Bazemore Park, Redfish/Bay area, Mustang Island canals, and through black mangrove estuaries toward Port Aransas. Expect excellent opportunities for shorebird, wader, and marsh bird sightings from the water.

    Festivals

    Birdiest Festival in America | April

    This multi-day event at the South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center includes guided field trips, photography workshops, and expert speakers. Year-round, several local organizations and nature centers offer guided bird walks and educational programs tailored to all skill levels.

    Celebration of Flight | September

    Celebrate the largest and most diverse Hawk migration at Hazel Bazemore County Park where large groups gather for a family-friendly event with free activities in the park for everyone.

    Whooping Crane Festival | February

    Held each February near Port Aransas, the Whooping Crane Festival at Aransas National Wildlife Refuge celebrates the return of one of North America’s rarest birds. This event offers guided tours, expert talks, and unforgettable chances to see whooping cranes in their winter habitat.

Top Birding Hotspots in Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi offers an unforgettable year-round birding experience, and with more than 200 species of birds in the area, it has been named the “Birdiest City in America” multiple years in a row by the Coastal Bend Audubon Society. The birds love our gulf beaches as…

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Birding Resources

 

Nueces County Birds
Corpus Christi is one of the most bird-rich regions in the U.S., making it a top destination for birding enthusiasts. Ready to explore the diverse bird species in this area? Check out eBird's current list of species spotted in Nueces County. 
 
South Texas Birds
Whether you're spotting rare birds or enjoying the vibrant local avian life, South Texas provides an unforgettable birding experience. Click the link below to explore a comprehensive list of bird species found in the area, curated by Gene W. Blacklock of the Coastal Bend Audubon Society. 
 

       

Corpus Christi’s Top Birding Hotspots

Corpus Christi is a haven for birdwatchers, offering countless spots to observe local and migratory species. Whether you’re hoping to catch sight of rare shorebirds, colorful songbirds, or majestic raptors, these hotspots reveal the rich biodiversity that makes Corpus Christi a top destination for birding year-round.