Each fall, the Greater Houston area plays a critical role in one of the planet’s most remarkable natural events – the migration of millions of birds. Located along the Central Flyway, Houston serves as a key stopover and refueling zone for migratory species traveling between breeding grounds in North America and wintering habitats in Central and South America.

Diverse habitats of Houston, including coastal marshes, estuaries, bottomland hardwood forests, and barrier islands, offer essential resting and foraging areas. Locations such as Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge, Bolivar Flats, and the Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge provide nutrient-rich wetlands where shorebirds, waterfowl, songbirds, and raptors can regain energy lost during long migratory flights. The region also supports threatened and endangered species such as the Piping Plover and Red Knot during their passage.

With increasing urban development and industrial expansion, especially along the Gulf Coast, many natural habitats are under threat. Identifying critical habitats through field surveys, endangered species assessments, and wetland delineations ensures the key migration corridors and stopover sites are protected.

Preservation of these habitats is not only vital to the survival of migratory bird species, but also supports broader ecosystem functions, such as flood control, water quality improvement, and biodiversity protection. Wetlands conservation, marsh restoration, and responsible land use planning are essential tools in maintaining the integrity of these stopover zones.

Let us assist you in playing your part to protect these migration corridors!