Chisos Mountains rising above the Chihuahuan Desert at Big Bend

Big Bend National Park

Texas · Southwest

Habitat
DesertMountainForest
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May

Entrance Fee

$30 per vehicle (7-day pass)

Hours

Open 24 hours

About This Location

Big Bend National Park encompasses a vast and remote desert landscape along the Rio Grande in far west Texas. The Chisos Mountains rise from the Chihuahuan Desert, creating sky island habitats where the Colima Warbler breeds at its only US location.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Elf Owl

17/20/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

17/20/2026

Mourning Dove

17/20/2026

Common Black Hawk

17/20/2026

Ladder-backed Woodpecker

27/20/2026

Say's Phoebe

17/20/2026

Vermilion Flycatcher

17/20/2026

Bell's Vireo

17/20/2026

Verdin

17/20/2026

Canyon Wren

17/20/2026

Northern Mockingbird

27/20/2026

House Finch

17/20/2026

Yellow-breasted Chat

17/20/2026

Bullock's Oriole

17/20/2026

Summer Tanager

37/20/2026

Pyrrhuloxia

17/20/2026

Painted Bunting

27/20/2026

Lark Bunting

17/17/2026

Black Vulture

17/16/2026

Acorn Woodpecker

27/16/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Hike the Pinnacles Trail to Boot Canyon for Colima Warbler

  2. 2

    The Rio Grande Village area has excellent riparian birding

  3. 3

    Visit during spring migration (April-May) for the greatest species diversity

  4. 4

    Arrive at dawn for peak bird activity, especially during migration seasons

  5. 5

    Listen for woodpecker drumming and warbler songs before scanning the canopy

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Big Bend National Park for birding?
The best months to visit Big Bend National Park for birding are April-May. The best seasons are Spring.
What birds can I see at Big Bend National Park?
Notable species at Big Bend National Park include Colima Warbler, Lucifer Hummingbird, Mexican Jay, Scott's Oriole, Black-capped Vireo, Northern Mockingbird, Black Phoebe, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, White-winged Dove, Greater Roadrunner. The area supports desert, mountain, forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Big Bend National Park?
Birding at Big Bend National Park is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
Is there an entrance fee at Big Bend National Park?
The entrance fee at Big Bend National Park is $30 per vehicle (7-day pass). Hours: Open 24 hours.
What amenities are available at Big Bend National Park?
Big Bend National Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Visitor Center, Trails, Campground.