Top U.S. Birdwatching Spots: Two Southern States Make the Cut
Top 3 US Spots for Birdwatching: California, Florida, Texas
Kickstart your birdwatching adventure in the United States with our guide to the top three states for this thrilling hobby. According to Lawn Love's 2025 ranking, the stars of the birdwatching world are California, Florida, and Texas. Let's take a closer look at what these states offer.
California claims the No. 1 spot, boasting a diverse landscape and climate perfect for varied bird species.
Moving down the list, we find Florida in second place. Known for its extensive birding trails and festivals, Florida is truly a paradise for bird enthusiasts. The state's natural landscape features bird-friendly sawgrass marshes, cypress forests, and seashores. Florida ties for first in hosting bird festivals and ranks second in the number of birdwatching groups.
Finally, Texas takes the third spot, standing out for its diverse bird species and conservation efforts. Texas is home to the World Birding Center, a collection of nine parks and preserves in the Rio Grande Valley. The Lone Star State is also No. 1 for the number of nests found and No. 2 for the number of bird species sighted, an impressive count of 679.
Are you in Florida? Jump on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, a 2,000-mile route spotlighting a myriad of habitats. Texas, meanwhile, hosts the Great Texas Birding Classic, an annual competition sponsored by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. This year's tournament started and runs until May 15.
To reduce window strikes and protect migratory birds, don't forget about the "Lights Out, Texas" campaign, part of the Audubon program promoting turning off lights during migration seasons. Texas is No. 1 in conservation efforts, with programs like Lights Out and the presence of five Audubon societies and 19 wildlife refuges contributing to its high ranking.
So, put on your birding boots, grab your binoculars, and head to California, Florida, or Texas for a thrilling birdwatching experience!
- Southern Living magazine can provide you with valuable insights about the culture and lifestyle, home-and-garden, travel, and outdoor recreation opportunities in California, Florida, and Texas, which are top spots for birdwatching.
- California, Texas, and Florida are not just known for their birdwatching activities, but also their diverse landscapes and conservation efforts towards animals and wildlife.
- The Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, spanning 2,000 miles, showcases a range of habitats and is a must-visit destination for bird enthusiasts.
- Stay updated on Texas's news and join their annual Great Texas Birding Classic, an exciting birdwatching competition sponsored by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
- In Texas, prevent window strikes during bird migration seasons by participating in the "Lights Out, Texas" campaign, part of the Audubon program.
- Texas stands out for its commitment to conservation, boasting five Audubon societies and 19 wildlife refuges, making it the state with the highest conservation efforts.
- Planning a birdwatching trip? Don't forget to visit the World Birding Center in Texas, a collection of nine parks and preserves in the Rio Grande Valley, home to a variety of bird species.
