Coastal birding habitat

High Island - S.E. Gast Red Bay

Texas · Southeast

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

High Island - S.E. Gast Red Bay is a productive birding destination in Texas, with 274 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Northern Shoveler, Green-winged Teal, and White-winged Dove among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Northern Yellow Warbler

Setophaga aestiva

5/31/2026High Island--Smith Oaks Sanctuary (UTC 052)2 observed

Peregrine Falcon

Falco peregrinus

5/23/2026Bolivar-High Island Shorebird Survey Start1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

35/31/2026

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

15/31/2026

Common Gallinule

65/31/2026

Purple Gallinule

45/31/2026

Anhinga

115/31/2026

Neotropic Cormorant

1355/31/2026

White Ibis

255/31/2026

Roseate Spoonbill

1355/31/2026

Tricolored Heron

1505/31/2026

Snowy Egret

1905/31/2026

Green Heron

15/31/2026

Western Cattle-Egret

2255/31/2026

Great Egret

1505/31/2026

Turkey Vulture

35/31/2026

White-eyed Vireo

25/31/2026

Blue Jay

45/31/2026

Purple Martin

125/31/2026

Carolina Wren

35/31/2026

Boat-tailed Grackle

35/31/2026

Great-tailed Grackle

85/31/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  3. 3

    Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit High Island - S.E. Gast Red Bay for birding?
The best months to visit High Island - S.E. Gast Red Bay for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at High Island - S.E. Gast Red Bay?
Notable species at High Island - S.E. Gast Red Bay include Northern Shoveler, Green-winged Teal, White-winged Dove, Black-necked Stilt, American Avocet. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at High Island - S.E. Gast Red Bay?
Birding at High Island - S.E. Gast Red Bay is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at High Island - S.E. Gast Red Bay?
High Island - S.E. Gast Red Bay offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.