Snapshot:
Go for the GOLD and spend your morning looking for the golden-cheeked warblers and black-capped vireos at this private ranch located on the West Nueces River! Participants will enjoy seeing the ranch and birds as you head out on ATVs and hunting vehicles to stop and walk short distances at various birding hot spots on the ranch. Three endangered species can be found at Dobbs Run Ranch – golden-cheeked warblers, Tobusch fishhook cactus, and Texas snowbells. The Smith family has purposefully managed for wonderful golden-cheeked warbler and black-capped vireo habitat on the ranch which has allowed Birding the Border participants the past 2 years to enjoy seeing both species! Even if you choose this trip for the golden-cheeked warbler, the diversity on this ranch will allow participants the opportunity to see a variety of different species of birds.
Trip Dates:
Friday, April 28 Sunday, April 30 (beginner track)
Departure Time: 6:00 AM
Trip Fee: $145
Guides:
Romey Swanson (Friday, April 28) Bill Sain (Sunday, April 30 – beginner track)
Birding Buddies: Erin Swanson (Friday, April 28) Connie Hoke (Sunday, April 30 – beginner track)
Travel and Facilities:
Target Birds:
Canyon wren, gray vireo, golden-cheeked warbler, yellow-throated warbler, Scott’s oriole
Bryan’s Birdy Bulletin
The owners of Dobbs Run are among of the most impressive private landowners I have met. They actively manage their land for birds, and Mrs. Smith stays on top of where you are most likely to find all the different species. Just as beautiful as the birds (like the golden-cheeked warbler and Scott’s oriole here) are the tall bluffs and sweeping vistas of quintessential Texas hill country. This is one of my favorite local places to visit, and you will soon see why if you register for this trip. Not to mention, the Smiths recently purchased a new tract of land expanding their ranch to the south, and I am just itching to get back out there and do some more exploring!