Discover the Hidden Gems at Las Ciénegas
From the road, you can catch a glimpse of the amazing birdlife at “The Duck Pond,” but why not join us for a special “behind the scenes” experience at Las Ciénegas? Many don’t realize that this breathtaking property covers 280 acres of lush greenery, nourished by the Ciénegas Creek. The creek flows throughout the ranch, forming five stock tanks, the largest of which spans over eight acres.
Trip Dates:
Saturday, May 3 (Beginner Track)
Sunday, May 4
Departure Time: 6:30 AM
Trip Fee: $135
Guide:
Mike McDermott (Saturday, May 3 – Beginner Track)
David Tonnessem (Sunday, May 4)
Birding Buddies:
Barbara Pankratz (Saturday, May 3 – Beginner Track)
Stephanie Lopez (Sunday, May 4)
Travel and Facilities:
Spotlight Birds: White-faced ibis, common gallinule, ringed kingfisher, long-billed thrasher, indigo bunting
Bryan’s Birdy Bulletin
Welcome to the vibrant habitats managed by the Lopez family! These areas are a treasure trove for bird enthusiasts seeking rare and fascinating species. The property features a series of lush ponds, each surrounded by dense, wet vegetation beneath the shade of towering hackberries, mulberries, and other large trees that various birds love. The Ciénegas Creek links these ponds, bordered by rich riparian zones that attract a distinct array of birdlife. This wetland oasis showcases different birds than those typically found in the Tamaulipan thornscrub, which characterizes the Del Rio region and the broader Val Verde County.
Discover the Duck Pond on the Beginner Track!
Join us on the Beginner Track at Birding the Border—an exclusive opportunity for 10 novice birders to explore all three ecoregions with guidance from our expert birding guide. Experience a diverse range of birds at a special rate! The Duck Pond, representing the Del Rio area, is located within the Southern Texas Plains ecoregion. However, it’s significantly influenced by the nearby Rio Grande and several springs, offering a unique birding experience.
Whether you’re an experienced birder or just starting out, these habitats promise rich discoveries and an unforgettable birding adventure.
Previous eBird Checklists:
2023
Saturday
Sunday
2021
Saturday
Sunday
2020