Seasonal Symphony: THE

YEAR-ROUND WONDERS OF SOUTH PADRE ISLAND SANCTUARY

By Dr. Kimberly Selber

Welcome to a world bursting with life. More than just a birding paradise, this haven vibrantly nurtures plants, fish, insects, and alligators too. Each season uncovers a new facet of this living gem. Spring blossoms, summer hums, fall unfolds a kaleidoscope of hues, and even winter holds its tranquil charm. There truly isn't a wrong time to visit. South Padre Island Birding, Nature & Alligator Sanctuary promises a rich, delightful spectacle throughout the year.

Spring

Imagine flying 600 miles over open water non-stop. No big deal, right? This is easily accomplished in a plane in about an hour. Not so for thousands of migratory birds who make this dangerous trip at night, navigating by the stars each spring to reach nesting grounds in Canada or Alaska. At the mercy of the Southwind, South Padre Island is the first sight of land for these weary travelers. Tired, thirsty, and hungry, these tiny aviators are ready for a much-needed rest before heading on to their final nesting destinations.

“We work year-round to assure that the habitat here at the Nature Center has everything the migrating birds need,” said Javier Gonzalez, SPI Birding and Nature Center Naturalist Educator. “They need bugs and berries, and we provide these by planting native plants and making sure they are in sync with the needs of the birds.”

“The best time to see migratory birds on South Padre Island is March through May, with the peak in late April,” said Gonzalez. On a good day, one can see up to 100 different species of birds. “This past Spring,” reflects Gonzalez, ”we had 240 different species drop in.”

Summer

Summer is hot, and most of the resident birds are nesting. But come late summer, the Island comes alive with new life. “We can see Reddish Egrets, Tricolored Herons, Black Skimmers, Black-bellied Whistling Ducks, Common Gallinule, and Kiskadees,” says Gonzalez. “I especially love the ducklings.”

Summer also means warm water for other nurseries, including crabs, turtles, and alligators. Visitors can also see lots of dragonflies and 20-25 different species of butterflies.

During the hot summers the Nature Center’s alligator population is very active. “They are cold-blooded creatures and move very slowly when it is cold,” Gonzalez stated. “When it is hot, they move around a lot and are fun to watch.” Currently, the Nature Center is home to over 40 nuisance-rescued alligators. These reptiles can never be returned to the wild because of their interaction with humans before being rescued. The Nature Center works with other sanctuaries as they grow and need additional space and care.

Fall

Fall is like a second spring on South Padre Island and, according to some, the most beautiful. Coastal nectar plants are in full bloom, the Nature Center’s gardens are bursting with colorful flowers, and the migrating birds are not in as much of a hurry to leave as they are in the spring.

“The best time for Fall birding is right after a cold front,” says Gonzalez. “The North winds come down, and the birds stop over to shelter.”

The South Padre Island Birding, Nature & Alligator Sanctuary is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. Visit SPIBirding.com for more information and to plan your visit.