As in many other parts of the country, large numbers of fall migrants pass through South Texas as cold fronts hit the area. Since that cooler weather brings the birds with it, it’s always a good idea to go birding when the weather makes a change. I caught some of that cold front migration on a recent trip into the field and as expected, the birding was great. Although I had hoped to get shots of Least and American Bitterns, those shy birds just didn’t show. Nevertheless, there was still plenty of other birds to see along with a nice big American Alligator.
This beautiful male American Redstart was present and showed its Halloween-like colors with charm.
There were also several Scissor-tailed Flycatchers in the area.
The sleek Scissor-tailed Flycatcher is always nice to see.
Least Flycatchers were also moving through. This small Empid. is one of our most common flycatchers.
A nice close look at a Least Flycatcher.
Great-tailed Grackles are always resident and easy to see in south Texas. This one was filling up on dragonflies.
A female Great-tailed Grackle.
Birds also showed up at the water drip, including a smart looking Wilson’s Warbler. With its wet plumage, it almost looked like a different species.
A wet Wilson’s Warbler.
It almost looks like a very yellow kinglet!
Another look at that wet Wilson’s Warbler.
Here’s what the male Wilson’s Warbler looks like with dry plumage.
In the wetlands, there were American Coots as well as other waterbirds.
An American Coot taking a bath.
The coot and all of the wetland birds have to watch out for American Alligators. Although they mostly eat fish, they won’t hesitate to catch and eat any unwary birds.
An American Alligator warms up in the sun.
A closer look at that gator. Note the sharp teeth!
There’s always lots of good birds to see in South Texas but the day after a cold front is always the best.