Introduction
In part 1 of this series, we introduced you to a couple of the premier bird watching sites in Corpus Christi: The South Texas Botanical Gardens and Packery Channel Sanctuary
Today, in part 2, we will show two more of the amazing opportunities Corpus Christi offers for some of the most incredible bird watching in the world!
Hazel Bazemore Park: A Premier Destination for Hawk Watching in Corpus Christi, Texas
Hazel Bazemore Park, located on the scenic Northwest side of Corpus Christi, is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, especially those fascinated by raptors. Spanning 77.6 acres along the Nueces River, this park offers unparalleled opportunities for hawk watching and is renowned for hosting the highest concentration of migrating raptors in the United States.
With its unique position at the convergence of several major flyways, Hazel Bazemore Park is a haven for both birds and birdwatchers, making it a must-visit spot for anyone interested in witnessing the awe-inspiring spectacle of hawk migration.
Hawk Watching at Its Best
What sets Hazel Bazemore Park apart is its status as a prime location for observing migrating hawks. Thousands of hawks pass through this area during the spring and fall migrations, offering an extraordinary viewing experience.
The park’s position along key migration routes makes it one of the most important raptor watching sites in the country. In fact, hawk enthusiasts have been flocking to Hazel Bazemore for over thirty years, with formal counts beginning in 1990.
A Location Unlike Any Other
Thanks to its strategic location along the Gulf Coast, Hazel Bazemore Park records not only vast numbers of hawks but also an impressive diversity of species. In a single season, it’s not uncommon to spot over a million raptors, including Broad-winged Hawks, Swainson’s Hawks, and even rarities like the Zone-tailed Hawk.
The highlight of the migration season comes in September when birdwatchers from all over the world gather to witness the skies engulfed by huge numbers of hawks, raptors, and a number of other species of fowl.
The Celebration of Flight: A Festival for Hawk Enthusiasts
For those wanting to experience the migration at its peak, Hazel Bazemore Park hosts the annual “Celebration of Flight” festival. This family-friendly event, organized in partnership with HawkWatch International and the Audubon Outdoor Club of Corpus Christi, coincides with the highest concentration of migrating Broad-winged Hawks.
Taking place from September 27-29, 2024, the festival offers free activities for visitors, including educational kiosks, expert hawk identification sessions with volunteers, and opportunities to purchase raptor-related merchandise from vendors.
A Spectacle for Both Newbies and the Expert
The event is a highlight for both experienced birders and newcomers alike, providing a chance to be inspired the sight of thousands of hawks soaring overhead.
This is an unforgettable experience, and volunteers are on hand to help visitors identify the various species as they pass through.
A Rich Ecosystem to Explore
While hawk watching is the main attraction, Hazel Bazemore Park offers much more for nature lovers. The park includes wetlands, woodlands, and ponds, creating diverse habitats that attract a variety of bird species beyond raptors.
The combination of these ecosystems makes the park an excellent destination for birdwatching year-round. Birding kiosks are located throughout the park, offering information and guidance to enhance the experience for visitors.
Beyond Birding
In addition to birdwatching, Hazel Bazemore Park is a great spot for outdoor activities like picnicking, fishing, and even kayaking along the Nueces River. With well-maintained facilities and scenic views, the park is a relaxing retreat for nature lovers.
A Hawk Watching Legacy
Since 1997, HawkWatch International has managed the official hawk count at Hazel Bazemore Park, with numbers that have consistently ranked among the highest in North America.
In one record-setting year, over 992,000 migrating hawks were counted, a testament to the park’s importance as a migration hotspot. Then in 2004, the count exceeded 1 million migrants, marking a historic moment in North American birding.
One of the “Birdiest” Spots in the “Birdiest City
Corpus Christi’s title as the “birdiest” city in the U.S. is well-deserved, with Hazel Bazemore Park playing a significant role in that distinction. Not only does the park provide incredible hawk watching opportunities, but it also underscores the city’s commitment to bird conservation and education.
Why Hazel Bazemore Park Should Be on Every Birdwatcher’s List
Whether you’re an avid birder with a passion for raptors or someone just discovering the joy of birdwatching, Hazel Bazemore Park offers an experience like no other.
The combination of breathtaking raptor migrations, diverse ecosystems, and community events like the Celebration of Flight make it a standout destination for bird enthusiasts.
A Must for Hawk Lovers
There is truly no better place in the country to witness the majesty of these birds in flight. Head out to the park this fall to behold the unforgettable sight of thousands soaring overhead—a celebration of nature at its grandest!
Lake Corpus Christi State Park: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise in South Texas
Introduction
Nestled in the heart of South Texas, Lake Corpus Christi State Park is not just a scenic retreat; it’s a haven for birdwatchers. With over 200 species of birds recorded in its diverse habitats, the park offers a rich tapestry of natural beauty and wildlife.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just beginning your journey into birdwatching, Lake Corpus Christi State Park provides an ideal setting to explore the avian wonders of South Texas.
A History Rooted in Nature and Conservation
Long before Lake Corpus Christi became a state park, this land was home to the Karankawa and Lipan Apache tribes. The area also played a pivotal role in Texas’ early history, being the disputed boundary with Mexico after the Texas Revolution.
The creation of the lake itself has an interesting backstory. In 1929, La Fruita Dam was constructed across the Nueces River to form Lake Lovenskiold. However, a dam failure later that year led to the formation of Lake Corpus Christi, thanks to the New Deal in 1935.
Man Made Structures Enhancing Nature’s Beauty
Over the years, efforts to control the flow and storage of water resulted in one of Texas’ largest man-made lakes, now spanning 21,000 acres. As the lake grew, so did the rich ecosystems around it, leading to the flourishing wildlife that birders and nature lovers now enjoy.
The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) also played a vital role in developing the park in the 1930s, adding Mediterranean-style structures made from local materials that still stand today. One such structure, the CCC Refectory, is where many birdwatching tours begin.
An Ecosystem Built for Birds
Lake Corpus Christi State Park boasts an extraordinary diversity of bird species, thanks to its varied landscapes. The brushlands, marshy lake edges, and riparian woodlands along the Nueces River create a vibrant environment that attracts both native and migratory birds.
It’s one of the few remaining areas of Tamaulipan thorn scrub, or “chaparral,” near the city of Corpus Christi. This rich ecological zone plays a crucial role in conserving local plant and animal species, offering a sanctuary for birds and wildlife.
A Birdwatcher’s Dream
For birdwatchers, the park is an important landfall for Neotropical migrants, making it a prime spot during migration seasons.
Some of the most commonly sighted birds include the black-bellied whistling-duck, purple gallinule, white-winged dove, and long-billed thrasher.
The park’s field checklist, Birds of Lake Corpus Christi State Park, can help guide you as you search for these beautiful creatures.
Events All Year
The park hosts a number of events, both birdy and non-birdy, throughout the year. One of the highlights of the park’s calendar this October is the “Birding Tour” event, where birders of all experience levels are invited to explore the park’s natural beauty.
Whether you’re a beginner learning the basics of bird identification or an experienced watcher seeking to expand your list of sightings, this tour offers something for everyone.
The park’s friendly atmosphere makes it a perfect event for families, solo explorers, and groups alike. Remember to bring comfortable shoes, water, and cameras.
Also, bring binoculars—though the park can lend a pair to first-timers if notified ahead of time.
Birding Habitat Highlights
The habitats within Lake Corpus Christi State Park are as diverse as its birdlife. The brush-covered slopes host birds like the pyrrhuloxia and black-throated sparrow, while the marshy margins of the lake often reveal striking water-birds such as the black-bellied whistling-duck and purple gallinule.
The lush riparian woodlands along the Nueces River, home to species like the white-eyed vireo and long-billed thrasher, provide a shady respite and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
A Key Role in Local Conservation
The park’s location also plays a critical role in regional conservation efforts, preserving one of the few remaining brushlands in the South Texas mesquite grassland.
This conservation work ensures that future generations of birdwatchers can continue to marvel at the beauty of South Texas’ avian population.
Beyond Birdwatching: Wildlife and Recreation
While birdwatching is a major draw, Lake Corpus Christi State Park offers more than just feathered friends. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including javelinas, white-tailed deer, and a thriving fish population that makes it a favorite for anglers.
Looking to take a short break from birdwatching? Swimming, hiking, and picnicking are also popular pastimes in this tranquil setting.
An Unbeatable Spot for Any Bird Lover
Whether you’re captivated by the sight of a rare migratory bird or simply enjoy spending time in nature, Lake Corpus Christi State Park provides a one-of-a-kind birdwatching experience.
Its rich history, diverse habitats, and dedicated conservation efforts make it a treasure for both locals and visitors alike.
Corpus Christi, a Haven for Birds and Nature Lover Alike
Both Hazel Bazemore Park and Lake Corpus Christi State Park offer birdwatchers a unique and enriching experience. Hazel Bazemore Park is a must-visit for those hoping to witness majestic hawks in flight, while, Lake Corpus Christi’s diverse habitats provide a sanctuary for a wide array of bird species.
We Hope you enjoyed part 2 of our series about the best birdwatching spots in Corpus Christi. Please join us for part 3 coming soon!
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