Located on the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail, Bay Area Houston is an ecotourism haven. The region is a popular rest stop for North American migratory birds traveling the Central Flyway. Purple Gallinule, Red-Headed Woodpecker, Great White Pelican and the once-endangered Brown Pelican are among the many birds that can be seen along local trails and in bird-appreciation parks. The 2,500-acre wildlife preserve, Armand Bayou Nature Center, is home to more than 370 species of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians. Visitors can explore miles of wildlife trails and discover how deer, armadillos, bobcats, snakes, alligators, frogs, birds and others rely on wetland, forest and prairie environments for survival.

Nine parks along the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail are specifically designated as official birding locations:

• Armand Bayou Nature Center
• McHale Park
• Hester Garden Park
• Pine Gully
• Robinson Park
• Bay Area Park
• Nassau Bay Park
• Challenger 7 Memorial Park
• Walter Hall County Park
• Paul Hopkins Community Park

Eco Paddle Association works to increase public awareness of the bays natural resources and see wildlife in its natural habitat. For more information EcoPaddle.org

Houston/Bay Area Rowing - Sculling kayaking and sailing instructions. For more info visit HoustonRowing.com

Clear Creek Nature & Cultural Tourism Council, contact Judy Kimball 281-993-2089 or email judylk@swbell.net