Texas has an amazing amount of plant, animal and bird life. Additionally, visitors to the Lone Star State have no shortage of options when it comes to choosing an area to view this vast variety of wildlife.
1. Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge
Danno Wise
Located a short drive from South Padre Island, Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge boasts half a dozen trails on which visitors can view an amazing variety of bird and animal life, including the reclusive Ocelot.
2. Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
This 1,700-acre wildlife center, located in Glen Rose, is dedicated to preserving and protecting endangered and threatened species. Visitors can view over 1,000 animals from their own car or on guided tours.3. Great Texas Birding Trail
Developed by Texas Parks and Wildlife, this unique birding trail takes birders from the Rio Grande to Sabine Pass, crossing through 43 counties along the way. Broken into three sections (Upper, Middle, and Lower Coast) this trail boasts over 300 viewing sites and hundreds of avian species.4. Matagorda Island Wildlife Management Area
The Matagorda Island Wildlife Management Area/State Park is a joint effort between USFWS and Texas Parks and Wildlife. Matagorda Island Wildife Management Area/State Park is accessible by boat - either private or via the state park ferry.5. Big Thicket National Preserve
National Park Service
Covering nearly 100,000 acres, Big Thicket National Preserve was the first such preserve in the United States. The Big Thicket NP is home to a diverse group of plants and animals and plays host to thousands of nature enthusiasts annually.
