SPI Birding & Nature Center

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND BIRDING & NATURE CENTER

ALLIGATORS AND BUTTERFLIES AND BIRDS OH MY!

At the southern tip of the world’s longest barrier island, South Padre Island Birding & Nature Center brings you up close and personal with inhabitants of this wildlife sanctuary.

“Every month is different,” states naturalist/educator Javi Gonzalez. “Throughout the year, visitors can see 70-80 different species of birds who live or migrate through the Island.”

South Padre Island is a crucial first landfall for birds making a difficult 200 miles cross-Gulf migration from Southern Mexico and northern Central America. Especially after a spring storm, wooded lots of the island abound with a kaleidoscope of warblers, tanagers, orioles, and thrushes. Wetlands harbor a variety of shorebirds and waterfowl, while endangered species such as the Brown Pelican, Piping Plover, and Peregrine Falcon may also be found here.

Birds aren’t the only species you’ll find at the center. Depending on when you visit, the air may be filled with a variety of butterflies or dragonflies, creating a beautiful symphony of color and peace.

Along with migratory and island birds, visitors can also see alligators, snakes, and tortoises. The center is the permanent home to Big Padre, a 12.5’ alligator, along with over 50 juvenile gators who will be rehomed as they grow. Daily “Gator Talks” educate visitors on alligator biology and the alligator sanctuary.

A Unique Physical Environment

On its 50 acres near the convention center, one can see dune meadows, salt marsh, intertidal flats, and thickets of native shrubs and trees that are irresistible to migrating birds in their season. “This is a very unique place,” Gonzalez reflects. “We have both saltwater and freshwater because of the treatment plant. This makes for a very rare and rich wildlife environment.”

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND BIRDING & NATURE CENTER 6801 Padre Boulevard www.SPIBirding.com

NATURALIST/EDUCATOR JAVI GONZALEZ

3300+ Feet of Boardwalk Five-Story Viewing Tower Alligator Sanctuary

With 43 acres of wetlands and 3,300 feet of boardwalk, visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of their surroundings. “Take a stroll out to the bird blind over the Laguna Madre,” Gonzalez recommends. “The water is clear, and you can see fish and crabs along with a variety of birds.”

“Nature is a way to release tension,” Gonzalez states. “The center is very peaceful and allows visitors to slow down and enjoy the natural world around them.”

Take time to visit the South Padre Birding & Nature Center, and Alligator Sanctuary on your visit to South Padre Island. The center is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM and is located at 6801 Padre Boulevard, South Padre Island. Visit SPIBirding. com for more information on tours and events.