Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge is a 2,088-acre National Wildlife Refuge situated along the banks of the Rio Grande in far south Texas.Established for the protection of migratory birds in 1943 this refuge is noted for its unusual flora and fauna. The habitat known as subtropical Rio Grande Delta riparian forest was protected as most of it had been lost to agricultural clearing in the Rio Grande Valley.
Many species of plants and animals found in far southern Texas cannot be seen anywhere else in the United States. Ocelots, Green Jays, Chachalacas and several others are unique to this area. Thus, ecotourism is a popular pastime especially with the birders who hope to see some of the over 400 different species recorded.
Sharon and I love hiking in this park as there are over 12 miles of trails taking us through this unique subtropical Rio Grande Delta riparian forest. Scattered throughout the park are several bird blinds set up for those of us who like to see and photograph up close many of the birds that either live at or visit during migration.
While there isn’t a lot of shade on the trails, as most of it is low level shrubbery, there are some interesting and unique segments along the trails. One area we particularly love is on the southwestern edge of the Willow Lakes trail. This part of the trail takes us through a mystical looking area of tall oak trees draped in moss.
With this park being less than 15 minutes from Casa Del Valle Park where we were staying it was convenient to visit for a nice hike while enjoying some of the best nature this area has to offer.
NOTE: We left Alamo TX and are now in Choke Canyon Lake State Park until April 29th…
For the past couple years the White Pelicans have been stopping here on their annual migration. Rare for us, such a beautiful formations as they cluster together.
ReplyDeleteYes, it is quite fascinating to watch them in these large gatherings.
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