Alligator as seen from the
Alligator Viewing Platform

Whooping Cranes are still being seen from the Observation Towers at Aransas National Wildlife Refuge. However, many of the cranes have already headed north on their 2500 mile journey to their breeding grounds.

The whoopers began leaving in mid-March. Many of the cranes stop at Quivira National Wildlife in Kansas to rest and feed. The first confirmed sightings there this spring were on March 26. At least 16 of the magnificent birds have now made it to Grasslands National Park in southern Saskatchewan.

Most of the flock will arrive at Wood Buffalo National Park in late April and May. Some years one or more Whooping Cranes will remain in Texas instead of migrating with the rest of the flock. These are usually sub-adults, young birds the size and plumage of adults, but which have not yet formed a pair bond. It’s too soon to know if any will remain this year.

Due to our increased rainfall, the cranes appear to have had a good winter with plentiful food. We look forward to their return this fall.

Although the cranes are leaving, other birds are arriving for the summer, or passing through on their way north. Recent sightings have included Yellow-throated Vireo, Yellow-throated Warbler, Black and White Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, American Redstart, Roseate Spoonbill, Couch’s Kingbird, Red-breasted Merganser, Anhinga, Osprey (with fish), and Wild Turkey (in full display).

You never know what might turn up this time of year. Everyone is invited to come look for themselves! The refuge is open every day from 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset. The Visitor Center is open Thursday through Sunday, from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Free bird checklists are available, and during Visitor Center hours, binoculars and field guides can be borrowed at no charge. Be sure to bring water, snacks, insect repellent and sun protection.

You may also want to visit the Alligator Viewing Area. Visitors can look down from the platform on the area the gators like to lie in. This gives great close views, while everyone remains safe. It also gives better views of the gallinules and other birds that like to hide among the cattails.

Aranasas National Wildlife Refuge is located on FM 2040. From Tivoli, take TX Hwy 35 & 239 south. Continue on 239 when it splits from 35. Turn right onto FM 774, and then left at the first cross street, which is FM 2040. FM 2040 will take you right into the refuge. It’s about 14 miles from Tivoli.

Alligator Viewing Platform