Bentsen-Rio Grande Val. State Park WBC (Mission)

Texas · Southeast

Habitat
ForestWetland
Best Seasons
SpringFallWinter
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

October-April

Entrance Fee

$5 per person

Hours

Open daily, 7 AM - 10 PM

About This Location

Bentsen-Rio Grande Val. State Park WBC (Mission) is a productive birding destination in Texas, with 356 species recorded on eBird. This forest and wetland habitat attracts Plain Chachalaca, Wild Turkey, and White-winged Dove among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Crimson-collared Grosbeak

Periporphyrus celaeno

3/6/2026Edinburg Scenic Wetlands WBC (LTC 061)1 observed

Swainson's Hawk

Buteo swainsoni

3/5/2026Bentsen-Rio Grande Val. SP--Hawk Watch1 observed

Greater Pewee

Contopus pertinax

3/4/2026610 E Houston Ave, McAllen (26.1939,-98.2151)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Plain Chachalaca

43/6/2026

White-tipped Dove

13/6/2026

White-winged Dove

143/6/2026

Mourning Dove

113/6/2026

Black-chinned Hummingbird

13/6/2026

Turkey Vulture

33/6/2026

Gray Hawk

13/6/2026

Golden-fronted Woodpecker

53/6/2026

Great Kiskadee

53/6/2026

Couch's Kingbird

13/6/2026

White-eyed Vireo

23/6/2026

Green Jay

433/6/2026

Black-crested Titmouse

33/6/2026

Verdin

23/6/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

43/6/2026

Northern House Wren

13/6/2026

Long-billed Thrasher

23/6/2026

Northern Mockingbird

13/6/2026

Olive Sparrow

13/6/2026

Lincoln's Sparrow

13/6/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  3. 3

    Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

  4. 4

    Purchase your day pass online in advance to avoid wait times at the entrance station.

  5. 5

    Bring insect repellent — wetland areas can have significant mosquito activity, especially in warmer months.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Bentsen-Rio Grande Val. State Park WBC (Mission) for birding?
The best months to visit Bentsen-Rio Grande Val. State Park WBC (Mission) for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Bentsen-Rio Grande Val. State Park WBC (Mission)?
Notable species at Bentsen-Rio Grande Val. State Park WBC (Mission) include Plain Chachalaca, Wild Turkey, White-winged Dove, Mourning Dove, Great Egret, Green Jay, Curve-billed Thrasher, Northern Mockingbird, House Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, Pyrrhuloxia, Blue-winged Teal. The area supports forest, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Bentsen-Rio Grande Val. State Park WBC (Mission)?
Birding at Bentsen-Rio Grande Val. State Park WBC (Mission) is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
Is there an entrance fee at Bentsen-Rio Grande Val. State Park WBC (Mission)?
The entrance fee at Bentsen-Rio Grande Val. State Park WBC (Mission) is $5 per person. Hours: Open daily, 7 AM - 10 PM.
What amenities are available at Bentsen-Rio Grande Val. State Park WBC (Mission)?
Bentsen-Rio Grande Val. State Park WBC (Mission) offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.