smith oaks bird sanctuary

I am ready to go back!! We went there for the bird photography, especially the Roseate Spoonbills. I would definitely recommend this place for people who are there to see the birds. It's was amazing! I could have stayed there a couple more days. We made a good choice by going in April when the birds were in their breeding plumage. There is also a large tree near the parking lot, where you will see lots of other birds like Scarlet Tanagers, Summer Tanagers, Rose Breasted Grosbeaks, etc.

The only bad thing is that it gets very crowded in the late afternoon. There are viewing platforms but the folks with huge lens and large tripods take them over. They have postings asking people to limit picture taking to 20 minutes but they ignore that. I have a camera and take pictures but I wouldn't hog the very limited space.

One canopy and older trees make the birding good. Lovely views of the roseate spoonbill rookery. Good range of different habitats.

Just returned from this Houston Audubon birding park located in High Island. The trails are nice with benches and viewing platforms along the routes, but could use some markers. The park has some very nice ponds and wetland areas, and The Rookery in the middle of Claybottom Pond is terrific. We saw many winter birds, but the park is known for the spring and fall migration seasons. I recommend this park for birders. There are other Audubon parks near this location.