Pathways & Goose Island State Park Aransas Bird Days 2026
Theme: “Wings of Spring”
A New Annual Birding Tradition Begins in Aransas County!
The Inaugural Aransas Bird Days of Spring marks a milestone for Aransas County. It reflects a shared commitment to conservation, community connection, and celebrating the ecological richness of the Texas Gulf Coast.
Why Aransas County Is a Premier Spring Migration Destination
Located along the Central Flyway, Aransas County offers some of the most important coastal stopover habitats in Texas. During April, migratory songbirds, shorebirds, raptors, and wading birds move through the region, creating exceptional birdwatching opportunities.
Aransas Bird Days of Spring highlights:
- Coastal birding hotspots
- Migration science and conservation
- Local ecotourism experiences
- Community-based stewardship
This event supports conservation awareness, educational outreach, and sustainable tourism across the Coastal Bend.
Event Overview
Dates: April 18–19, 2026
Location: Multiple Aransas County sites, including Goose Island State Park
Host: Aransas Pathways
Partner: Goose Island State Park
What to Expect at Aransas Bird Days of Spring
Participants of all ages and experience levels are welcome.
Event Schedule and Registration
Browse the events below to plan your visit. Some activities are free and open to the public, while select guided tours and sessions require advance registration. Please review each listing for details.
Whether you are a seasoned birder or discovering migration for the first time, this weekend offers accessible, meaningful experiences in nature.
Goose Island State Park Programming
For additional Goose Island State Park programming updates, visit:
Aransas Bird Days – Wings of Spring — Texas Parks & Wildlife Department
Pathways Events & Registration
April 18, 2026
8:00 AM-11:00 AM-Live Bird Banding Experience: Science in Action
No pre-registration required.
Where: Linda S. Castro Nature Sanctuary, 4041 Hwy 35 N Bypass, Rockport, TX 78382
Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/aar9sa58FBQrR8JZ8
What: Get an up-close look at the fascinating world of bird science during a live bird banding demonstration led by three experienced researchers working along the Texas Gulf Coast: Rebekah Rylander, Kelly Bryan, and guest bird bander Rebecca Bracken of the Gulf Coast Bird Observatory. Learn why and how this research is used.
Bring: a chair, hydration, bug spray, and sun protection
Accessibility: This program is located on a flat surface with accessible parking on-site.
8:30 AM-11:30 AM-Pathways Guided Nature & Historical Tour of Aransas County
Registration Required – limited seating available
Eventsbrite Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1984933762316
Departure location: Aransas County Courthouse Parking Area 301 N Live Oak St, Rockport, TX 78382. The van departs promptly at 8:30am.
Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Axi3ewktj7JVvXe16
What: A guided nature and history van tour of Aransas County. Discover the beauty, wildlife, and rich coastal heritage of Aransas County on this guided Nature & Historical Tour. Lunch is not provided.
Bring: snacks and your sense of adventure!
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM-Pathways Family Birding Event & Craft Time
Where: Connie Hagar Cottage Sanctuary 1429 S Church St, Rockport, TX
Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Axi3ewktj7JVvXe16
What: Bring the whole family and enjoy a fun and educational day celebrating birds and nature at the beautiful Connie Hagar Cottage Sanctuary. This family-friendly event features a mini bird walk, an introduction to birding for all ages, hands-on nature crafts for youth, and opportunities to learn more about local birds and their habitats.
Bring: sun protection, bug spray, hydration
Accessibility: This event takes place on an uneven surface. Accessible parking nearby.
5:00 PM-8:00 PM-Birding Talk with Dr. Carter Crouch (International Crane Foundation) & Reception
No pre-registration required.
Location: Aransas County Community Center, 302 N Live Oak St, Rockport, TX
Google Map Link:
Join us for an evening of birding, conservation, and community connection as part of Aransas Bird Days of Spring 2026.
Enjoy:
Vendor and exhibitor booths
Networking with community and visiting guests
A featured birding discovery session with expert speakers
Also, we invite you to be part of Aransas Bird Days of Spring 2026 as a vendor or exhibitor.
To apply, please register using the link below:
Aransas Bird Days Vendor Registration: https://AransasBIrdDays2026_Vendor_Registration.eventbrite.com
For complete event details, including schedule and locations, please visit:
Aransas Bird Days of Spring 2026: https://aransaspathways.com/event/aransas-bird-days-of-spring-2026/
We look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with you.
Mark your calendar.
Invite a friend.
Experience spring migration in one of Texas’ most vibrant coastal birding corridors.
One County, Countless Adventures.
Birding. History. Kayaking. Trails.
