Recently, I had the privilege of birding on a ranch west of San Antonio near Bracketville. There are many different species of birds living in this habitat of live oaks, cacti, thorny shrubs and other mixed plant life. An expert birder and guide, Romey Swanson, the Executive Director of the Devil’s River Conservancy, led us throughout the ranch while riding on ATVs in search of the many bird species on the property. We found two specialties which were the Golden-cheeked Warbler and Black-capped Vireo. It is always a treat to see these two species because of their rare existence and specialized habitat. We also did some night owling and saw the Elf Owl (smallest owl) and the Eastern Screech Owl.

We also went to Fort Clark Springs and found many species of birds. It was refreshing to see so many migrants including the Painted Bunting, Blue Grosbeak, Summer Tanager, Nashville Warbler, Red-eyed Vireo, Scott’s Oriole, Vermilion Flycatcher, and the Orchard Oriole. We ended up at the Fort Clark Springs Water Treatment ponds where we observed many water birds including ducks that had not migrated north yet and many types of sandpipers. The White-rumped Sandpiper was a life bird for me. I feel fortunate to have been a part of this birding excursion and witnessing these wonderful avian treasures.

Elf Owl – Photo taken by Romey Swanson

Summer Tanager – taken by Sherie Gee

Vermilion Flycatcher – taken by Sherie Gee