Texas is one of the most amazing states in the U.S. for birding. With many species that can’t be found anywhere else in the country, Texas is a must-visit destination for people looking to go on a truly great adventure and add birds to their life list. When in a state as large and diverse as Texas, it can be helpful to have a guide to show you the key locations to find your target birds and make sure you get the most out of your trip. Fortunately, we can help you find the best guides in the state!
Meet the Guides
Ty Allen
Location: Dallas and Fort Worth area but willing to travel to other locations.
This Dallas-Fort Worth area native developed a keen interest in birding at a young age. At 16, he started leading monthly bird walks, and since then, he has co-lead various birding tours for Birding with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Ty also serves as an eBird regional reviewer for several counties in Texas, including Bosque, Erath, Hill, Hood, Johnson, and Somervell. He actively participates in Christmas Bird Counts and spring counts. Ty loves assisting others in achieving their birding goals and helping them find their target birds. He is also passionate about making contributions to the data in eBird for areas that are under birded. Below are some of Ty’s specialty trips:
Village Creek Drying Beds
Experience one of Dallas-Fort Worth’s best hotspots. With over three hundred species recorded here, there’s always plenty to see. Situated conveniently in the heart of the metroplex, this tour encompasses a wide variety of habitats including wetlands, woodlands, and grasslands. Waterfowl and sparrows are especially plentiful here. This spot is also famous for being one of the prime locations in DFW to host the amazing courtship displays of the American Woodcock in February.
Best time of year: September-May
Meridian State Park
Situated on the outskirts of Dallas-Fort Worth and at the gateway to the Texas Hill Country, this tour offers opportunities to observe the endangered and range restricted Golden-cheeked Warbler. Other breeding birds at this location include, Black-crested Titmouse, Painted Bunting, Black-and-white Warbler, and more.
Best time of year: March-June
Click here to book a tour or get info on pricing!
Isidro Montemayor Jr
Location: The Rio Grande Valley in South Texas
Nestled in the Southernmost tip of Texas the Rio Grande Valley is home to nearly 500 species of birds.
With a range of habitats including Tamaulipan Thornscrub, coastal areas, freshwater habitats, and arid
regions; the Rio Grande Valley is perfect for birding. The RGV offers 30 specialty birds that can only be
found in South Texas, such as Green Jays, Kiskadee, and Altamira Orioles. In addition to local specialties, every year we are greeted by one or more Mexican rarities such as the Golden-crowned Warbler and Crimson-collared Grosbeak. There are many hotspots to visit including South Padre Island
and Estero Llano Grande State Park to name a few.
A South Texas Native, Isidro has enjoyed nature watching his entire life, leading him into a career in the outdoors. Isidro works as an Avian Biologist/Environmental Scientist conducting environmental wildlife surveys, such as bird nesting surveys and species counts. Currently he volunteers with Texas Parks and Wildlife co-leading weekend morning bird walks. Isidro is also a guide at multiple Birding Festivals in
Texas, including the Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival, Spring Chirp, and the Whooping Crane Festival. In winter he actively participates in multiple Christmas Bird Counts throughout the Rio Grande Valley. When not working, you can find Isidro out birding.
Currently Isidro only guides in Cameron and Hidalgo county.
His tour rate includes up to a total of 3 people. For larger groups an additional fee per person will be
added.
A note about the South Texas Summer: During the summer months temperatures can exceed 100 degrees by the afternoon. If you choose to do a Full Day be aware and prepared with enough water. It is suggested that any
sites visited in the afternoon should have covering or indoor options.
Click here to book a tour or get info on pricing!