Let’s be honest—birding in Texas during June requires a little dedication, a decent amount of water, and a borderline concerning relationship with your bug spray. But if you can brave the heat (and the occasional face-full of spiderweb), you’ll find that Texas offers some incredible birding opportunities during the early summer months.

Here are the top five places to break out the binoculars this June—plus what to look for, what to avoid, and where not to step if you don’t want to surprise a rattlesnake.

1. Davis Mountains State Park

Location: Fort Davis, West Texas
Theme: High elevation = lower sweat levels

Why Go:
Think “mountains,” but in Texas—and yes, they actually exist. Cooler temps and dramatic landscapes make this a June birding gem, especially for desert and mountain species you won’t find in your backyard feeder.

What to Look For:

Montezuma Quail (if you see one, celebrate appropriately)
Varied Bunting (Texas’ unofficial rainbow sparrow)
Scott’s Oriole
Gray Flycatcher
Hummingbirds that act like they own the feeders (because they do)

Map It:
Davis Mountains State Park Map (PDF)

2. South Llano River State Park

Location: Junction, Central Texas
Theme: Shady trails and colorful songbirds—yes, please

Why Go:
This park is an oasis for birds and birders alike. Whether you’re stalking a Painted Bunting or relaxing in a bird blind with a cold drink (no judgment), this place is full of eye candy and easy trails.

What to Look For:

Painted Bunting (prepare to gasp audibly)
Golden-cheeked Warbler (only found in Texas—and only briefly!)
Black-capped Vireo
Vermilion Flycatcher
Summer Tanager, aka “the ketchup bird”

Map It:
South Llano Park Map (PDF)

3. Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park

Location: Mission, South Texas
Theme: Tropical birds without the passport

Why Go:
This is as close to birding in Mexico as you can get without leaving the U.S. Expect feathered drama queens, jungle calls, and possibly an unexpected chachalaca encounter that will make your day.

What to Look For:

Green Jay (like a parrot in party mode)
Plain Chachalaca (it sounds like its name, and yes, it’s hilarious)
Groove-billed Ani
White-tipped Dove
Olive Sparrow (the quiet introvert of the group)

Map It:
Bentsen-RGV Park Map

4. Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge

Location: Upper Texas Coast, Chambers County
Theme: Marsh birds, mosquitoes, and miracles

Why Go:
Coastal birding in June means wading birds, marsh dwellers, and enough avian drama to fuel a soap opera. Drive the loops with your AC on and your windows cracked—perfect for birding and bug defense.

What to Look For:

Purple Gallinule (basically a tropical chicken on stilts)
Least Bittern (good luck spotting this ninja)
Black-bellied Whistling-Duck
Seaside Sparrow
Marsh Wren with a side of sass

Map It:
Anahuac NWR Trails Map

5. Caddo Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Location: Karnack, East Texas
Theme: Cypress swamps and birds that love a good mystery

Why Go:
This place looks like something out of a Southern gothic novel—Spanish moss, water trails, and a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack of bird calls. Bring your kayak or hop on a tour boat for the full swamp-birding experience.

What to Look For:

Prothonotary Warbler (glows like a sunrise in a swamp)
Barred Owl (“Who cooks for you?”—you’ll know it when you hear it)
Northern Parula
Swainson’s Warbler (if you find one, brag responsibly)
Red-headed Woodpecker (just a little show-off)

Map It:
Caddo Lake NWR Map

Bonus Tips for June Birding in Texas:

Bird Early: You’ll beat the heat, the crowds, and the fire ants.
Pack Like a Pro: Sunscreen, water, hat, bug spray. Optional: a fan you can strap to your binoculars.
Dress Like You’re in a Safari: Lightweight, breathable, and at least one pocket filled with snacks.
Keep a Backup Pair of Socks: Wet shoes ruin lives.

Birding in June is a test of endurance—but also a reward for the dedicated. The birds are there. The trails are waiting. And the shade? Well, find it when you can.

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