Bolivar Flats Shorebird Sanctuary

Texas · Southeast

Habitat
ForestWetland
Best Seasons
SpringFallWinter
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

Entrance Fee

Free

Hours

Open daily

About This Location

Bolivar Flats Shorebird Sanctuary is a productive birding destination in Texas, with 312 species recorded on eBird. This forest and wetland habitat attracts Mottled Duck, Mourning Dove, and Black-necked Stilt 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

Red-throated Loon

Gavia stellata

3/6/2026Texas City Dike (UTC 074)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mottled Duck

43/3/2026

Mourning Dove

23/3/2026

Black-necked Stilt

33/3/2026

American Avocet

35003/3/2026

American Oystercatcher

33/3/2026

Black-bellied Plover

263/3/2026

Killdeer

23/3/2026

Semipalmated Plover

163/3/2026

Piping Plover

403/3/2026

Wilson's Plover

33/3/2026

Snowy Plover

603/3/2026

Long-billed Curlew

43/3/2026

Marbled Godwit

753/3/2026

Short-billed Dowitcher

1003/3/2026

Wilson's Snipe

13/3/2026

Lesser Yellowlegs

303/3/2026

Willet

2003/3/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

253/3/2026

Ruddy Turnstone

203/3/2026

Sanderling

5003/3/2026

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

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

  5. 5

    Waterproof boots are recommended as trails near marshes can be muddy, especially after rain.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Bolivar Flats Shorebird Sanctuary for birding?
The best months to visit Bolivar Flats Shorebird Sanctuary for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Bolivar Flats Shorebird Sanctuary?
Notable species at Bolivar Flats Shorebird Sanctuary include Mottled Duck, Mourning Dove, Black-necked Stilt, American Avocet, American Oystercatcher, American Herring Gull, Double-crested Cormorant, Great Egret, Red-breasted Merganser, Ruddy Turnstone, Laughing Gull, Ring-billed Gull. The area supports forest, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Bolivar Flats Shorebird Sanctuary?
Birding at Bolivar Flats Shorebird Sanctuary is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
Is there an entrance fee at Bolivar Flats Shorebird Sanctuary?
There is no entrance fee at Bolivar Flats Shorebird Sanctuary. Hours: Open daily.
What amenities are available at Bolivar Flats Shorebird Sanctuary?
Bolivar Flats Shorebird Sanctuary offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.