For birders, every season brings something new.

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Located along the Central Flyway and surrounded by diverse habitats, Bay City is a destination birders return to year after year. From coastal marshes and wetlands to bays and prairies, every season brings new species and new opportunities to experience one of the most

active birding regions in North America.

 

Matagorda County is home to the Matagorda County-Mad Island Marsh Circle for the Audubon Christmas Bird Count, a count circle that has led North America in species totals more often than any other location. In 2005, the area recorded the highest species count ever

documented by a U.S. count circle.

 

Best Times to Visit

• Spring Migration (March-May)

• Matagorda Bay Birdfest (April)

• Fall Migration (September-November)

• Christmas Bird Count Season (December)

 

Visitors planning a spring trip may want to coincide their stay with Matagorda Bay Birdfest,

one of Texas' premier birding events, offering guided access to many of the region's most sought-after birding locations.

 

Friday Evening

After arriving in Bay City, ease into the weekend with an afternoon visit to the Matagorda County Birding Nature Center.  

Wander the trails as the day begins to cool, watch for wildlife among the wetlands, and enjoy your first glimpse of the habitats that make this region so special.

 

As the sun begins to set and the park closes for the evening, return to town to freshen up before dinner at Blue Ocean Seafood. 

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Saturday

Rise early and head into the field. Whether you're searching for a life bird or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of migration,

the morning hours are often when the region is at its best. From coastal marshes and freshwater wetlands to bayside habitats

and native prairies, every stop offers something different. From coastal marshes and freshwater wetlands to bayside habitats

and native prairies, many of the region's top birding locations are featured on Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail. 

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To make the most of your visit, pick up a copy of the Matagorda County Birding Guide

at the Visitor Center Kiosk and discover some of the area's best birding opportunities.

 

Pack a lunch for a midday picnic before heading back into the field. Matagorda County

offers endless opportunities to connect with nature and over 300 recorded species. Keep your

eyes open for species that draw birders from across the country, including Yellow-billed Cuckoo,

Chuck-will's-widow, Yellow-throated Vireo, and Scarlet Tanager.

 

Sunday

Enjoy breakfast at 9er’s Grill before experiencing one more morning.

You'll likely leave with both new sightings and a reason to return. After all, with more than

300 recorded species and new migration activity throughout the year, no two birding trips

to Matagorda County are ever quite the same.