Now through July 31, 2023, National Wildlife Federation is offering Wild Birds Unlimited customers 20% OFF habitat certifications! The North American bird population has decreased by 2.9 billion breeding adults, a net loss of 29% over the last half-century.* Scientists have identified habitat loss as the biggest reason for the decline. Wild Birds Unlimited is proud to be a Champion for the National Wildlife Federation Certified Wildlife Habitat program, whose goal is to inspire everyone to create a haven for wildlife in their yard.

What bird are you most excited

 to encounter? 

The Central Texas region boasts a diverse collection of bird species, making it one of the top birdwatching destinations in the country. Located in close proximity to Central and South America, it is a popular pit stop for rare tropical birds during their migrations. Additionally, the region is home to many eastern and western bird varieties. For me, the thrill of birdwatching in this area lies not in anticipating a particular sighting, but rather in the excitement of the unknown sighting that could be waiting.

We interviewed an avid birdwatcher from out of state (residing in Oregon) who has visited Dripping Springs to check out the birds! Meet Addison Dobias!

Would you tell our readers a bit about yourself & where your passion for birds came from?

My interest in birding began as a result of two things. Firstly, my partner took a Biology of Birds elective while studying biology in college, which taught her a lot about birds. This led us to go on weekly birding trips together. Secondly, while out birding, I came across a spark bird - a bird that really caught my attention and made me want to learn more. This bird was the Northern Flicker - a ground-feeding woodpecker with beautiful and unique coloring.

What is your favorite park/area in the Texas Hill Country area & surrounding to go birding and take photographs?

Two of my favorite parks for birding in central Texas are Pedernales Falls State Park and Hornsby Bend Bird Observatory. Pedernales Falls State Park is conveniently located near Dripping Springs and has an excellent selection of easily accessible bird blinds. It is also home to one of the largest concentrations of Ashe Junipers, which is where the Golden-cheeked Warbler, a delightful bird that exclusively breeds in Central Texas. Hornsby Bend Bird Observatory is situated just north of AUS airport and boasts one of the largest concentrations of waterfowl in the nation. Although it is a wastewater treatment facility and has a noticeable odor, you can still find an incredibly diverse range of dabbling ducks, such as the Shovellers and Teals, diving ducks like the Buffleheads and Scaups, and maybe even a rare and lost Long-tailed Duck if you're lucky like me.

The Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council confirmed that this is only the second time that this species has been seen in Galveston County; the first time was in 1982. Those searching for the long and lanky birds will notice their long tail with prominent white spots, thick curved yellow and black bills and peachy brown bodies. 

photojournalist Bob Becker