
South Padre Island Birding & Nature Center is part of a network of birding meccas in south Texas, collectively called the “World Birding Center”. It sits next door to the Convention Centre, which I love, and so I’ve not bothered to pay my fees to enter its grounds. On Monday, with my time in Brownsville winding down, I thought I should investigate this site, and see what all the fuss was about.
The Nature Center sports 5/8th of a mile of elevated boardwalks that traverse 40 or 50 acres of wetlands. A nearby water treatment facility discharges freshwater into the marsh, which eventually flows through a forest of Black Mangrove into the shallow waters of Laguna Madre. Habitats bordering both fresh and saltwater can support a rich biosphere where plants and creatures come together and build vibrant, living communities.
While here, I met the following life-forms: American Alligator, American Wigeon, Black-Bellied Plover, Black-Necked Stilt, Black Skimmer, Blue-Winged Teal, Caspian Tern, Clapper Rail, Great Blue Heron, Great Egret, Great Kiskadee, Green Heron, Laughing Gull, Little Blue Heron, Mottled Duck, Striped Mullet, Neotropic Cormorant, Northern Pintail, Pied-Billed Grebe, Reddish Egret, Redhead, Red-Winged Blackbird, Ring-Billed Gull, Roseate Spoonbill, Snowy Egret, Spotted Sandpiper, Tricolored Heron, White Ibis, Willet, and Yellow-Rumped Warbler.
One of my favorite moments on the marsh was meeting a Clapper Rail. In their ongoing effort to confuse birders and put their own stamps on the world we live, the AOS (formerly AOU) renamed our southern California Light-Footed Clapper Rail to Ridgeway’s Rail. In fact, they renamed all the former members of this clan, except those found here in coastal Texas and the rest of the eastern seaboard. We still call these birds Clapper Rails. [I had to look this stuff up!]
Other experiences I enjoyed were meeting adult Roseate Spoonbills, coming into their breeding attire. How different they are from the juveniles I met last spring along the Gulf coast! Watching Black-Skimmers at work on the water was also fun for me. I’ve not met them on clear, glassy waters while in Texas, like I have in southern California.
A couple of birds I would have liked to catch eluded my camera. One was a Mangrove Warbler that teased me with a brief appearance in the mangroves at the margin of Laguna Madre. Several of us waited in vain, hoping to get an encore. The other birds I saw were Yellow-Crowned Night-Herons that flew into the marsh and settled into a stand of cattails, taking up a position impossible to get a line-of-sight view <sigh>.
So was it worth the price of admission? Absolutely! Will I give up visiting the Convention Centre now that I explored these grounds? Not-a-chance! Would I visit here again? You bet!

American Alligator(Alligator mississippiensis) |
Description: The SPI Nature Center displays alligators among the birds that share the wetlands. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 13:45 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/800 |
File Name: AmericanAlligator_D5X1098SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


American Wigeon(Mareca americana) |
Description: The SPI Nature Center had superior access to several species, like these wigeons, I could not see from next door. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 9:22 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/1000 |
File Name: AmericanWigeon_D5X9861SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


American Wigeon(Mareca americana) |
Description: The SPI Nature Center had superior access to several species, like these wigeons, I could not see from next door. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 9:22 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/800 |
File Name: AmericanWigeon_D5X9866SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Black-Bellied Plover(Pluvialis squatarola) |
Description: Early morning action on Laguna Madre was so furious, I didn’t know I’d met this plover until I reviewed my images. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 9:33 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/1000 |
File Name: BlackBelliedPlover_D5X9980SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Black-Necked Stilt(Himantopus mexicanus) |
Description: Stilts spent most of their time loafing during my visit to the shallows of Laguna Madre on the lee side of the island. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 10:10 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/2000 |
File Name: BlackNeckedStilt_D5X0297SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Black Skimmer(Rynchops niger) |
Description: This bird just made a successful catch. Skimmers danced over the shallows for me during my vigil to the laguna, sometimes providing head on views, showing how razor-thin their bills are. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 9:38 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/1000 |
File Name: BlackSkimmer_D5X0054SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Black Skimmer(Rynchops niger) |
Description: Skimmers danced over the shallows for me during my vigil to the laguna, sometimes providing head on views, showing how razor-thin their bills are. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 9:38 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/1000 |
File Name: BlackSkimmer_D5X0062SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Black Skimmer(Rynchops niger) |
Description: Skimmers danced over the shallows for me during my vigil to the laguna, sometimes providing head on views, showing how razor-thin their bills are. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 9:39 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/1000 |
File Name: BlackSkimmer_D5X0097SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Black Skimmer(Rynchops niger) |
Description: Skimmers danced over the shallows for me during my vigil to the laguna, sometimes providing head on views, showing how razor-thin their bills are. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 9:40 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/1000 |
File Name: BlackSkimmer_D5X0165SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Black Skimmer(Rynchops niger) |
Description: Skimmers danced over the shallows for me during my vigil to the laguna, sometimes providing head on views, showing how razor-thin their bills are. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 9:44 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/800 |
File Name: BlackSkimmer_D5X0199SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Black Skimmer(Rynchops niger) |
Description: Skimmers danced over the shallows for me during my vigil to the laguna, sometimes providing head on views, showing how razor-thin their bills are. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 9:32 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/1000 |
File Name: BlackSkimmer_D5X9968SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Blue-Winged Teal(Spatula discors) |
Description: Blue-Winged Teal are common winter ducks in south Texas. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 11:06 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/800 |
File Name: BlueWingedTeal_D5X0361SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Blue-Winged Teal(Spatula discors) |
Description: Blue-Winged Teal are common winter ducks in south Texas. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 11:07 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/800 |
File Name: BlueWingedTeal_D5X0393SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Caspian Tern(Hydroprogne caspia) |
Description: This Caspian Tern made several passes over the marsh, allowing me to capture a few frames. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 13:15 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/1000 |
File Name: CaspianTern_D5X1042SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Clapper Rail(Rallus crepitans) |
Description: Normally a secretive species, this rail blessed us with an open view. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 12:13 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/800 |
File Name: ClapperRail_D5X0733SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Clapper Rail(Rallus crepitans) |
Description: Normally a secretive species, this rail blessed us with an open view. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 12:14 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/500 |
File Name: ClapperRail_D5X0771SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Clapper Rail(Rallus crepitans) |
Description: Normally a secretive species, this rail blessed us with an open view. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 12:15 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/800 |
File Name: ClapperRail_D5X0813SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Clapper Rail(Rallus crepitans) |
Description: Normally a secretive species, this rail blessed us with an open view. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 12:15 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/800 |
File Name: ClapperRail_D5X0834SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Great Blue Heron(Ardea herodias) |
Description: These herons were the largest birds on the marsh, and this one captured a prize mullet and swallowed it as I watched in disbelief. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 13:48 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/800 |
File Name: GreatBlueHeron_D5X1131SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Great Blue Heron(Ardea herodias) |
Description: These herons were the largest birds on the marsh. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 9:29 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/1000 |
File Name: GreatBlueHeron_D5X9889SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Great Egret(Ardea alba) |
Description: Great Egrets prowled the wetlands in stately elegance. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 11:51 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/1000 |
File Name: GreatEgret_D5X0527SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Great Kiskadee(Pitangus sulphuratus) |
Description: I heard kiskadees from the dense mangroves throughout the marsh, but only near the visitor center did they allow me to see them clearly. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 13:59 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/800 |
File Name: GreatKiskadee_D5X1289SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Green Heron(Butorides virescens) |
Description: Green Herons provided me with unusually clear views while they captured their dinner or rested between meals. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 11:13 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/1000 |
File Name: GreenHeron_D5X0413SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Green Heron(Butorides virescens) |
Description: Green Herons provided me with unusually clear views while they captured their dinner or rested between meals. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 11:53 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/250 |
File Name: GreenHeron_D5X0566SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Green Heron(Butorides virescens) |
Description: Green Herons provided me with unusually clear views while they captured their dinner or rested between meals. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 12:05 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/800 |
File Name: GreenHeron_D5X0685SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Green Heron(Butorides virescens) |
Description: Green Herons provided me with unusually clear views while they captured their dinner or rested between meals. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 12:12 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/800 |
File Name: GreenHeron_D5X0727SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Green Heron(Butorides virescens) |
Description: Green Herons provided me with unusually clear views while they captured their dinner or rested between meals. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 12:34 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/800 |
File Name: GreenHeron_D5X0859SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Laughing Gull(Leucophaeus atricill) |
Description: Laughing Gulls roosting on the rails required staff to wash the decks periodically. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 9:34 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/1000 |
File Name: LaughingGull_D5X9991SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Little Blue Heron(Egretta caerulea) |
Description: The views of waders at the Nature Center were generally more satisfying than from the Convention Centre. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 11:55 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/1000 |
File Name: LittleBlueHeron_D5X0595SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Mottled Duck(Anas fulvigula) |
Description: Mottled Ducks are a specialty of the Texas Gulf Coast. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 9:38 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/500 |
File Name: MottledDuck_D5X0034SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Striped Mullet(Mugil cephalus) |
Description: Mullet thrive in the shallow mangrove-lined waters of the Texas coast and provide food for several species. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 12:44 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/250 |
File Name: Mullet_D5X0882SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Neotropic Cormorant(Phalacrocorax brasilianus) |
Description: Neotropic Cormorants plied the shallow marsh waters for fishy prey. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 13:09 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/800 |
File Name: NeoTropicCormorant_D5X0971SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Neotropic Cormorant(Phalacrocorax brasilianus) |
Description: Neotropic Cormorants plied the shallow marsh waters for fishy prey. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 13:12 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/800 |
File Name: NeoTropicCormorant_D5X1007SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Northern Pintail(Anas acuta) |
Description: The SPI Nature Center had superior access to several species, like this male pintail, I could not see from next door. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day, I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 9:19 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/1000 |
File Name: NorthernPintail_D5X9842-SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Pied-Billed Grebe(Podilymbus podiceps) |
Description: Pied-Billed Grebes patrolled the deeper sections of the marsh waters. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 13:19 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/2000 |
File Name: PiedBilledGrebe_D5X1078-SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Reddish Egret(Egretta rufescens) |
Description: Reddish Egrets fared well in the mangrove lined shallows of Laguna Madre. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 12:48 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/1000 |
File Name: ReddishEgret_D5X0889-SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Redhead(Aythya americana) |
Description: Usually found in freshwater in the summer, Redheads (ducks) populate the salty lagunas in south Texas. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 9:37 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/800 |
File Name: RedHead_D5X0030SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Redhead(Aythya americana) |
Description: Usually found in freshwater in the summer, Redheads (ducks) populate the salty lagunas in south Texas. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 9:40 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/1000 |
File Name: Redhead_D5X0157SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Red-Winged Blackbird(Agelaius phoeniceus) |
Description: Female and male Red-Winged Blackbirds usually travel separately in the winter. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 12:41 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/500 |
File Name: RedWingedBlackbird_D5X0872SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Ring-Billed Gull(Larus delawarensis) |
Description: Ring-Billed Gulls share company with Laughing Gulls in south Texas. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 9:40 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/1000 |
File Name: RingBilledGull_D5X0155SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Roseate Spoonbill(Platalea ajaja) |
Description: Spoonbills provide a splash of bright color to the birds frequenting the mangrove-lined laguna shallows. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 9:36 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/800 |
File Name: RoseateSpoonbill_D5X0016SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Roseate Spoonbill(Platalea ajaja) |
Description: Spoonbills provide a splash of bright color to the birds frequenting the mangrove-lined laguna shallows. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 9:51 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/1000 |
File Name: RoseateSpoonbill_D5X0249SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Snowy Egret(Egretta thula) |
Description: Mature Snowy Egrets are supposed to have black bills. This bird did not get the memo. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 10:41 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/1000 |
File Name: SnowyEgret_D5X0312SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Snowy Egret(Egretta thula) |
Description: Mature Snowy Egrets are supposed to have black bills. This bird did not get the memo. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 10:44 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/2000 |
File Name: SnowyEgret_D5X0340SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Spotted Sandpiper(Actitis macularius) |
Description: These small sandpipers seem to show up wherever I visit near wetlands in south Texas. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 13:47 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/2000 |
File Name: SpottedSandpiper_D5X1113SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Tricolored Heron(Egretta tricolor) |
Description: Tricolored Herons were among the many waders I met at the wetlands. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 12:53 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/500 |
File Name: TriColoredHeron_D5X0953SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


American White Ibis(Eudocimus albus) |
Description: White Ibis were another species I met at the Nature Center I did not see well at the Convention Centre. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 11:38 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/2000 |
File Name: WhiteIbis_D5X0492SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


American White Ibis(Eudocimus albus) |
Description: White Ibis were another species I met at the Nature Center I did not see well at the Convention Centre. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 13:10 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/2000 |
File Name: WhiteIbis_D5X1002SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Willet(Tringa semipalmata) |
Description: Among the waders, gulls and other shorebirds, I met a few Willets in the shallow mangrove-lined waters of Laguna Madre. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 10:10 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/2000 |
File Name: Willet_D5X0295SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |


Yellow-Rumped Warbler(Setophaga coronata coronata) |
Description: Myrtle Warblers were by far, the most common warbler in the marsh. There are wetlands that the South Padre Island Convention Centre (free access) and the Birding & Nature Center (admission fee required) share. My previous visits to the wetlands had been to the Convention Centre. On this day I would find out why folks pay money to see the marsh, when there is free access next door. |
Date Taken: 2021:02:08 14:03 |
Location:
South Padre Island WBC |
Camera Information: NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/11.0, 1/800 |
File Name: YellowRumpedWarbler_D5X1305SouthPadre-WBC |
© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com |

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