Birdwatch in a Wetland Pine Savannah

Remember to bring your binoculars!

NPS Photo

The dense woods of the Big Thicket make birdwatching a challenge, but this is a little easier in the open grassland and longleaf pine forest of the wetland pine savannah habitat. A prime example of this habitat, known informally as the “Solo Tract,” lies along the north side of FM 420 just east of the preserve visitor center and headquarters.

Getting Here

GPS Coordinates:
30.457401, -94.383218

Park at the visitor center at 6102 FM 420 in Kountze, then walk 285 yards east on FM 420 to a tan gate across a dirt road leading into the savannah. Birders can also park along the road shoulder near the gate. Follow the dirt road into the pine savannah and wander as you please. There are no trails in this area. Use caution, as the numerous crawfish towers make the ground uneven. Muddy conditions are common.

What to Look For

Look and listen here for birds of the grassland and pine forest, including the rare Henslow’s sparrow and Bachman’s sparrow. Woodpeckers are common, including red-bellied and pileated, as are brown-headed nuthatches. Visit during the spring migration for the best chance at seeing a variety of species.

Naturalist Notes

Look carefully along the road for small red sundew plants, which grow there profusely during the winter and spring. As this is a longleaf pine restoration area, you’ll find longleaf pines in many different growth stages. Preserve staff conduct periodic prescribed burns here to help maintain the ecology of this ecosystem.

More Information

Read more about the birds of the Big Thicket.

Details

Duration

1-2 Hours

Activity

Birdwatching

Pets Allowed

Yes

Pets must be on-leash (no longer than 6 feet). Please pick up your pet's poop!

Activity Fee

No

Big Thicket National Preserve does not charge entrance fees.

Location

Kountze, TX

Park at the visitor center at 6102 FM 420 in Kountze, then walk 285 yards east on FM 420 to a tan gate across a dirt road leading into the savannah. Birders can also park along the road shoulder near the gate. GPS coordinates: 30.457401, -94.383218

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Birds are present year-round, but the annual spring migration is the recommended time of year for this activity.

Time of Day

Day, Dawn

Accessibility Information

Wheelchair users may have difficulty getting past the large metal gate at the entrance. The unpaved path is flat but can be muddy if it has rained recently.