Birds and Nature

I stopped back in the Texas Hill Country as I began my trip back to Colorado (and away from temps in the 100's). I birded again at Neal's Lodges in Concan, some public areas around there and at Lost Maples State Natural Area (a really scenic location that is reported to have the largest population of Golden-cheeked Warblers). This is one of at least 2 Golden-cheeked Warblers I saw. SeEtta

This bird will likely be the best bird of the trip because the Golden-cheeked Warbler is an Endangered Species and listed as 'one of the most at-risk species in North America' by the National Audubon Society. It's breeding range is restricted to fewer than 25 counties in Central Texas. The neatest part of seeing this Golden-cheeked Warbler was watching it go to a nest which is visible in the lower pic. This male bird stayed at the nest for a minute or so, possibly feeding a female on the nest or maybe doing some work on the nest (females do most of the building but males may assist) According to Texas Parks & Wildlife , "Golden-cheeked warblers are endangered because many tall juniper and oak woodlands have been cleared to build houses, roads, and stores. Some habitat was cleared to grow crops or grass for livestock. Other habitat areas were flooded when large lakes were built." SeEtta

I had arranged to meet Bob Rasa, who leads tours around the famous Neal's Lodges on the Frio River in Concan, TX. Bob graciously offered to work me in to his schedule and I spent the day benefiting from his experience with the birds in this area. We birded around Neal's Lodges in the morning which is where I photographed this Black-throated Sparrow. I also saw this Long-billed Thrasher at the Neal's. This species has a fairly limited range, mostly in Mexico but coming into south and central Texas. SeEtta