A note on playback: Playback is strictly prohibited in ALL State Parks, National Wildlife Refuges, and many if not all private nature parks. In addition to being potentially harmful to birds when used extensively, it is also disruptive towards other birders. Thank you for not using playback!
The Valley from West to East:
Starr County
Two Red-breasted Nuthatches were documented at Falcon State Park on 10/15.
Several BROWN JAYS continue at Santa Margarita Ranch (restricted access), having originally been found in March 2023, and have been returning to oranges during weekly visits by birders. Check the blog post for updates on sightings, terrain, and access. Wild Muscovy Ducks, Red-billed Pigeons, Rose-throated Becards and Morelet's Seedeaters have been somewhat regular here as of recently.
Brown Jays have been seen very irregularly at Salineño along the river trail over the last six months as well, and the possibility exists that they may find the feeders at Salineno this upcoming season. The Salineno feeding station will re-open for the season on November 1st and will remain open through mid-March.
Hidalgo County
A Red-naped Sapsucker was found at Bentsen State Park near the Nature Center on 10/17 and a Rose-throated Becard was found at Ebony Grove Picnic Area at Bentsen State Park on 10/18. Hook-billed Kites have been sporadically seen, distantly from the hawk watch during the fall hawk count.
Two dark morph Reddish Egrets (rare inland) were found on Delta Lake on 10/21.
Cameron County
An AMERICAN FLAMINGO was found at Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, resting on the water just out from Alligator Pond. A Tropical Parula was also found on 10/22 at Laguna Atascosa, near the Visitor Center.
A Palm Warbler was found on the Laguna Vista Nature Trail on 10/19, continuing through at least 10/20.
A Green-tailed Towhee continues at the Valley Land Fund Lots / Sheepshead Street, through at least 10/22.
A DOWNY WOODPECKER was found at the South Padre Island Convention Center on 10/22.
Willacy County
No rarities have been observed recently in Willacy (mostly due to limited birder presence).
Good Birding!
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Compiled by Tiffany Kersten
