A Birding Adventure Awaits
Texas Gulf Coast migration tells a story of birds on the move. Come experience the winged characters that bring one of nature's greatest stories to life, migration.
Birding the Central Flyway's Coastal Hotspots
Experience the magic of the Central Flyway's coastal migration at hotspots such as the Baytown Nature Center, Houston Audubon Sanctuaries, Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge, and the San Jacinto Museum and Battlefield. Perfectly positioned among these hotspots is Baytown, Texas. Its location maximizes your birding experience along the Texas Gulf Coast.
Baytown Nature Center
The Baytown Nature Center is a coastal sanctuary where nature and history intertwine. Once the Brownwood neighborhood, it is now a nature center where you can experience urban archeology and exceptional birding. Walk the streets that once were the pathways of a thriving community, but now are the pathways for the community to observe nature thriving in their environment.
Jocelyn Nungaray Refuge
The Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge protects important coastal wetlands. Formerly known as the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge, it was renamed to honor a young Houstonian who loved nature. It's unique feature is the Shoveler pond Auto Tour loop, which provides an excellent opportunity to see alligators and six species of rails without leaving your car.
Audubon Sancturaries
High Island Sanctuaries of the Houston Audubon are a haven for birds and visitors, especially during spring migration. High Island has four sanctuaries. Birders from across the U.S and from around the world come to experience a canopy walkway, which puts you in the treetops among birds who are not shy, and seem to know they are the show. Don't miss out on the High Island Sanctuaries.
Map your Birding Adventure!
Experience Birding in Baytown
Create, capture, and share your birding adventure in Baytown through these experiences offered by Visit Baytown.
Visit Baytown Birding Challenge
Discover why Baytown is a premier birding destination along the Upper Texas Coast by taking the Visit Baytown Birding Challenge.
Baytown Birding Week
November 18-22, 2026
Join us for Baytown Birding Week! This 3.5-day birding experience offers guided excursions in the Baytown area.
Birding for Jewels
Photo Contest
Capture the beauty of the Baytown Nature Center in the Birding for Jewels Photo Contest and showcase your wildlife photography.
Baytown Bird Count
The monthly bird count, called the Audubon, at the Baytown Nature Center provides an opportunity to collect valuable data of birds that breed, winter and migrate through the nature center. No previous experience is necessary. In fact, this is one of the best ways to gain experience in identifying birds. The surveys occur on the third Thursday of each month, September - May starting at 8:00 am. You will want to bring water, snacks, insect repellant, sunscreen and a hat. We ask that you bring your own binoculars and/or spotting scope. No registration required. Participation in the bird survey is free.
Joining the Baytown Nature Center Audubon is a great way to get you one step closer to completing the Baytown Birding Challenge and win your prize!
Why Baytown?
Baytown is perfectly positioned for birders looking to explore the Texas Gulf Coast year round. Located within an hour of several premier biding destinations, Baytown makes it easy to experience a variety of habitats. Each day offers the chance to discover a new location.
Baytown sits along two major “Flyways” that migratory birds travel along twice a year. During spring and fall migration, coastal areas are essential resting places for birds to recharge before finishing their journey.