Join us in Kinney County, Texas, for three full days of birding in the borderlands of southwest Texas! Upon arrival, you will learn about the area and expected species while enjoying a meal at the historic Fort Clark Springs in Brackettville. The first morning, we will bird around the Fort, where dozens of species of migrants pass through on their way north. In the afternoon, we will bird at a local private ranch with golden-cheeked warbler habitat, then enjoy a catered picnic at Kickapoo Ranch State Park in time to watch the bats depart and listen for owls. Our second day will begin at a ranch with painted buntings, northern bobwhite, and orioles. Lunch in the native plant garden at the ranch will include a program on habitat management for songbirds. In the afternoon, we will travel to a ranch on Pinto Creek, with the opportunity to spot some local riparian species such as. On the last day, we will have the option to return to golden-cheeked warbler hotspots in the morning, or enjoy a driving trip through a variety of habitats on Tularosa Road. Our final afternoon trip will take us to San Felipe Creek in Del Rio and we will conclude with dinner in Del Rio the final evening.
Accommodations
All nights will be at the same lodging in Fort Clark Springs. You may check in as early as 2pm on April 23 and must check out by noon on April 26. The hotel at Fort Clark Springs includes beds, linens, and a bathroom with sink and shower. It does not provide shampoo, soap, or blow dryers. Coffee is not available in the room but will be available at breakfast each morning.
Schedule
Breakfast will be held at 6:30 AM the first morning; on the next two days breakfast will be at 6:00 AM with departure scheduled for 6:30 AM.
Climate
Spring in southwest Texas can be lovely! Daytime highs are usually in the low 80s, with nighttime lows in the mid 50s. However, unexpected weather can occur at any time, including temperatures far above or below the averages. Check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. April is also when this region typically gets some rain, so we recommend a good rain coat and any protective gear needed for your birding equipment.
Clothing
We recommend that you check the weather as you pack for your trip and be prepared for the unexpected! Spring in Texas can be lovely but is also unpredictable. Recommended clothing to pack includes a light jacket, a rain jacket, long pants, shorts, long-sleeved shirts, and short-sleeved shirts. Sturdy walking/hiking shoes are a must. We will be fairly remote for most of the trip; there are no laundry facilities nearby. In the case of inclement weather during the program, we may modify our schedule. No refunds will given due to weather.
Equipment
Please bring any equipment that you would like to use for birding, such as binoculars, spotting scopes, cameras, and field guides.
Internet and phone service
Wi-fi internet is available at the hotel. Cell phone service is limited throughout the areas we will travel. Other than when we go to Del Rio on the third night, please do not expect reliable cell phone service.
Insect protection
Mosquitos, horse flies, gnats, chiggers, and other biting insects live in this region. While they will not be out in full force at this time of year, biting insects may be still be encountered during hikes and walks. Please bring insect repellant.
Liability
Participants will be required to sign a liability form upon arrival. Participants who do not sign a form will not be able to join in the program activities.