A pair of Crested Caracaras sit on a curved tree branch.

Aransas National Wildlife Refuge lies along the central flyway, a major migration route. Each spring and fall millions of waterfowl, shorebirds and songbirds pass through the Refuge. The uniqueness of this location has resulted in an astounding 405 documented species. Spring and fall are the premier times to visit, however in all seasons the Refuge is truly a birder’s paradise. 

Whooping cranes are the Refuge’s most famous migrants, typically arriving in late October and departing by mid-April. Planning your trip around these dates will maximize your chances of seeing these birds.