Join us on this exclusive trip for 6 to experience nesting birds up close. The spectacle of a water bird nesting rookery is a birder “must see.” North Deer Island has 1.7 miles of protected shoreline which supports nesting habitat for the threatened Reddish Egret and 16 other bird species. Rookeries dot the Texas Gulf coast. Among the best in Texas is 144-acre North Deer Island, shared by nesting herons, egrets, ibis, cormorants, shorebirds and seabirds. You’ll witness the sight, sounds and smells of thousands of Brown Pelican (approximately 40% of TX coastal nesters), Little and Great Blue Herons, Snowy and Great Egrets, White and White-faced Ibis and Roseate Spoonbill. The rookery pairs will show you their best plumage, but North Deer Island is way more than just a pretty face.
The true highlight of the boat trip is the ceaseless activity including mating display, nest building, incubation and the endless feeding of partners and nestlings. Viewing this Global Important Bird Area site NDI is by boat only. Viewing distances will be determined by the tides and prevailing winds.
This special trip, arranged by FeatherFest, allows us to approach this island while following a special protocol to minimize impact on the colonial birds. There are no restrooms on the boat, and we will not land on any islands. This trip takes place on a small boat (there will only be six participants) and you will be on the boat the entire trip.
This is a birding trip. Although many photo ops will be available, this is not a photography trip and large cameras with tripods are not recommended.
Don’t forget your jacket, as it is usually windy & can be very cool on the boat.
Driving directions to the meeting site will be emailed prior to the festival.
Bring: water, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray
