Most birders come to Texas during the winter months or April. Given the hot humid summer weather and fewer numbers of birds, I can’t blame them. Nevertheless, there is plenty to see in south Texas at any time of the year, including the muggy days of July. On a recent trip to Laguna Atascosa, I was entertained by a nice variety of birds and other wildlife.
A curious female Nilgai. Native to India, this introduced antelope species has become established in various parts of southern Texas.
This is a good time of year to see young animals, including juvenile raptors.
Two adult Crested Caracaras and a juvenile.
The juvenile in the picture above can be recognized by its buffy chest and grayish bill. Overall, it’s duller than the orange-billed adults.
A close shot of the face of an adult Crested Caracara.
Birds can also be seen with food in their bills as they forage to feed their youngsters.
A Curve-billed Thrasher with food for its young.
As always, water acts as a bird magnet in the arid scrublands of south Texas. If you can stand the heat, patiently waiting by a water drip usually results in good shots of birds and whatever else comes in for a drink.
A Common Ground Dove coming in for a drink.
The Common Ground Dove is a beautiful, sparrow-sized dove. In certain lighting, their red bill almost looks as if it’s made of plastic. Mourning Doves also show up at water sources and are a fairly common sight in many areas.
Mourning Doves are named after their mournful sounding cooing calls.
Sometimes, a Javelina makes a sudden appearance.
Our only native wild pig, the Javelina.
Also known as the Collared Peccary, this wild pig is a tough character that frequents brushy habitats. The Texas Tortoise is a lot more docile and easier to photograph.
Texas Tortoise.
Not all birds rely on water for bathing. Many also take dust baths and seem to enjoy the experience very much!
A happy, dust-bathing Long-billed Thrasher.
There’s lots of wildlife to see in Texas no matter when you visit!