Texas Wildlife Newsletter

Over the years, we’ve heard a common question from conservation-minded folks: “What can I do to help at-risk wildlife in Texas?” 

Well…we’ve got answers! In addition to our general ways to Take Action for Wildlife, we’re excited to share 10 Conservation Action Species Spotlights — quick, practical guides that highlight a few actions landowners and others can take to support some of our Species of Greatest Conservation Need and their habitats.

The actions in these spotlights can help a host of wildlife and plants, not just the species in question. For example, brush management in the Post Oak Savannah ecoregion for Houston Toads also benefits Wild Turkey and Painted Bunting. Grassland restoration not only benefits the Eastern Meadowlark, but Northern Bobwhite, American Bumblebee, and numerous pollinators and grassland birds. Being a responsible recreationist along the coast not only supports Reddish Egrets, but also Brown Pelicans, Roseate Spoonbills, and numerous other coastal birds.

Whether you're managing land, a home gardener, or coastal enthusiast, these spotlights—including resources from Texas Parks and Wildlife and some Alliance member organizations—are a good place to start.

Check out the species spotlights HERE.

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Lights Out, Texas! and How to Reduce Bird Building Collisions at Home

Did you know 1 out of every 3 birds migrating through the U.S. passes through Texas? Most migratory birds fly at night, meaning the bright lights of commercial and residential buildings can attract and disorient birds. This distraction can cause collisions and leave birds vulnerable to threats on the ground. Take action to protect migrating birds by turning out all non-essential lights outside and inside from 11 pm - 6 am from August 15th - November 30th, and especially during Peak Migration from September 5th - October 29th.

Learn more and sign up for bird migration alerts HERE. 

It's important to remember that birds can die from window collisions all year long, not just during migration. Check out this brochure from National Audubon Society about how to make your windows and home safer for birds.

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Participate in the Texas Pollinator Bioblitz in October...

Search for butterflies, bees, moths and other pollinators during the 10th Annual Texas Pollinator BioBlitz! 🐝 🦋 🐞Learn moreat Texas Parks and Wildlife.

....and "Pledge to Plant" to Benefit Pollinators Next Year!

Think spring is the only planting season? Think again! Fall is actually the perfect time to plant native plants — and your local pollinators will thank you next year. Cooler temps and autumn rains give roots a head start before winter, so by the time spring rolls around, your garden is ready to bloom with color and buzzing life. Native plants offer the nectar, pollen, and habitat our bees, butterflies, and native insects need — and planting in fall means less watering and maintenance for you. 

Your localNative Plant Society of TexasorTexas Master Naturalist Chapter often has native plants sales in the fall. Check in with them and get planting!

Great fall flowering nectar plants include goldenrod, Maximilian sunflower, liatris, frostweed, mistflower/boneset, asters and more.

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WINS FOR TEXAS WILDLIFE

Record Number of Whooping Cranes Estimated Wintering on Texas Coast 

The results of the 2024–2025 Winter Whooping Crane Survey are in! According to USFWS, an estimated 557 whooping cranes were recorded wintering along the Texas coast, marking the highest count ever for the Aransas-Wood Buffalo population.

Among them were at least 41 juveniles, a promising sign of successful breeding in and around Canada’s Wood Buffalo National Park. Even more encouraging, 68 additional whooping crane sightings were documented outside the official survey area — a strong indication that the species' winter range is expanding as it continues to rebound from the edge of extinction. Read more. Photo: ©TPWD

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Record Number of Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle Nests on Padre Island 

"Kemp’s ridley sea turtles have built a record number of nests along the Texas coast this year.  That’s good news for biologists working to save the world’s most endangered turtle species. Nearly 400 nests have been found, with nesting season continuing." Read more from the Texas Standard. ©USFWS Headquarters, Public domain

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Please welcome Bear Creek State Park in the Texas Hill Country to the state park system—this future park is great news for Texans and wildlife!

Funds to develop the new park will come from the Centennial Parks Conservation Fund, a $1 billion endowment fund overwhelmingly approved by voters in 2023 to create a dedicated funding stream for acquiring and developing state parks. Since January, Texas has added more than 6,800 acres of new parkland. Read more about the property...

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