Birding at Davis Mountains State Park in August: Cool Nights, Hot Days, and Surprising Birds
Michael Mathews 
Discover cooler summer birding at Davis Mountains State Park. Spot Acorn Woodpeckers, Scott’s Orioles, and more in scenic West Texas.
If you’re looking for birding in West Texas that doesn’t leave you feeling like you’ve been broiled in a convection oven, put Davis Mountains State Park at the top of your August travel list. Perched at over 5,000 feet in elevation, this scenic park offers warm but tolerable summer days and cool, refreshing nights—perfect conditions for both people and birds.
In August, the Davis Mountains are alive with bird activity, making it one of the best birding spots in Texas during the late summer. You’ll not only enjoy the cooler weather compared to much of West Texas, but also a surprising lineup of species that are hard to find elsewhere in the state.
Birds You Might See in August at Davis Mountains State Park
When birding here in August, keep your binoculars ready for these feathered locals and seasonal visitors:
- Acorn Woodpeckers – Dressed in a quirky mix of black, white, and clown-red, these social birds are known for drilling holes in trees to stash their winter acorns.
- Scott’s Orioles – Striking yellow-and-black plumage makes them easy to spot against the desert hillsides.
- Canyon Towhees – Humble in color but abundant in character, you’ll find these birds hopping around brushy areas near trails and campsites.
- Black-headed Grosbeaks – A splash of orange, black, and white with a sweet, melodic song that carries through the pines.
- White-winged Doves – They are everywhere in August. If the park had a theme song, it would be their constant cooing in the background.
Why August Birding Works Here
Unlike much of West Texas birding in summer, where the midday heat can send even the hardiest birder indoors, the Davis Mountains enjoy daytime highs in the 80s or low 90s, with nighttime temps in the 60s. That means early mornings are crisp and comfortable—perfect for catching peak bird activity.
And while you may have to take an afternoon break when the sun is strongest, the evenings cool down fast, giving you a second chance to spot species at the park’s bird blinds, along trails, or even from your campsite.
Tips for Birding Davis Mountains State Park in August
- Arrive Early – Morning light is gorgeous, and birds are most active before 10 a.m.
- Check the Bird Blinds – The park’s blinds provide easy viewing of species like Acorn Woodpeckers and Black-headed Grosbeaks.
- Bring a Camera – Between the dramatic mountain landscapes and colorful birdlife, you’ll want plenty of photos.
- Stay Hydrated – Even here, August is still Texas. Keep water handy on the trails.
Why You Should Visit
Whether you’re a casual birder or chasing your Texas life list, August birding in the Davis Mountains is worth the trip. You’ll enjoy cooler nights, scenic mountain views, and a chance to see birds like Scott’s Orioles and Canyon Towhees that don’t show up in most parts of the state.
With its mix of comfort, scenery, and wildlife diversity, Davis Mountains State Park proves that late-summer birding in Texas can be more than just enduring the heat—it can be the highlight of your birding year.
There are two great bird blinds here. One at the Interpretive Center and one just before you get to the campground area. Both have outside viewing areas and air-conditioned areas inside the building.
The Interpretive Center is a good spot to see Montezuma Quail. At times, they may show up every morning and, maybe, every evening. Then, sometimes, they are very inconsiderate and don’t show up at all.
So grab your binoculars, point your GPS toward Fort Davis, and get ready to meet the mountain birds of August.
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