Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area for native Texas wildlife that spans more than 100,000 acres. The refuge is located between Corpus Christi and Port O’Connor in the city of Austwell, Texas. Hundreds of native birds, mammals, and reptiles are found at the sanctuary throughout the year.

Additionally, Aransas National Wildlife Refuge plays an important role in the American wildlife conservation movement. The refuge is famous for rescuing the endangered whooping crane from extinction. In 1941, the refuge was recognized as the focal point for saving these beautiful birds.

Aransas National Wildlife Refuge in Texas

Visitors from around the world come to this wildlife sanctuary to hike trails, enjoy wildlife photography, and observe some of the most diverse wildlife found in the state of Texas. Sightings of greater roadrunners, raccoons, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys are common. Birdwatchers visit the refuge to observe the migratory flock of whooping cranes that winters there from November through April.

See One of the Rarest Birds in North America

Aransas National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1937 as a refuge and breeding ground for migratory birds. In 1941, just four years later, the refuge became the heart of the worldwide effort to save whooping cranes from extinction. Due to habitat loss and unregulated hunting, only 15 whooping cranes remained in the wild at the time. All remaining birds belonged to the flock that migrated from Buffalo National Park to Aransas National Wildlife Refuge.

Over the course of several decades, conservationists worked with government agencies to help bring North America’s tallest bird back from the brink of extinction. Conservation efforts were put in place by both the United States and Canada. As a result, whooping cranes were given domestic and international legal protection. Habitat preservation and captive breeding programs were also put in place in an effort to save these magnificent birds.

Thankfully, the hard work paid off. Today, the whooping crane population surpasses several hundred. Although it’s hard to tell exactly how many birds there are, reports state the wild population consists of at least 500 birds. Currently, the whooping crane is listed as the second-rarest bird in North America. Visitors have the chance to see these rare birds at Aransas NWR every year from November through April.

Observe Prehistoric Reptiles

In addition to the whooping crane, numerous species of reptiles shelter at the wildlife refuge. One of the largest and most prominent species is the American alligator. American alligators are the largest reptiles found in the United States and can reach lengths of up to 15 feet. These prehistoric reptiles are found throughout the park and often congregate near bodies of water. Although their size may be alarming, alligators rarely show aggression toward humans. To be on the safe side, it’s best to observe them from a distance.

Lizards are another prominent species found throughout the refuge. Sightings of eastern fence lizards, green anoles, and six-lined racerunners are common. During the warmer months, lizards are often seen scurrying along pathways and rummaging around on leaves in the woods. Visitors have the best chance of seeing lizards near hiking trails.

Even though sightings are less frequent, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has documented about 35 snake species at Aransas National Wildlife Refuge. Fortunately, only 5 of these snakes are venomous. Venomous snakes found at the refuge include the broad-banded copperhead, Texas coral snake, western cottonmouth, western diamondback, and western massasauga. Other nonvenomous snakes found there include the bull snake, prairie king snake, Texas rat snake, and western coachwhip.

See Both Diurnal and Nocturnal Mammals

Finally, Aransas NWR is home to nearly 50 mammal species. Visitors can observe both diurnal and nocturnal species. Diurnal animals are most active during the day, while nocturnal animals come out at night. Common sightings include the bobcat, common peccary, feral pig, raccoon, and white-tailed deer. Although rare, people have even reported sightings of the evasive ringtail.

Generally speaking, raccoons are considered a nocturnal species. However, the raccoons at Aransas National Wildlife Refuge have adapted to a more diurnal lifestyle. Raccoons often forage for crayfish and other small animals near bodies of water throughout the wildlife sanctuary.

Visit Aransas National Wildlife Refuge

In summary, people visit the refuge for a handful of reasons. The refuge provides a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages, ranging from biking and hiking to birdwatching and fishing. The main attraction, however, is the group of Aransas National Wildlife Refuge whooping cranes that winter at the sanctuary.

Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher, wildlife photographer, or simply someone who loves the great outdoors, this refuge is worth the visit! The refuge is open every day from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset. General entrance fees may vary and range from $3 – $5 per vehicle. For more information, check out the resources below.