https://www.chron.com/life/wildlife/article/texas-big-bend-national-park-20276679.php
Amid the sweeping desert landscapes of western Texas, two national parks in the Lone Star State have emerged as top destinations in the nation for wildlife enthusiasts. In a new study, outdoor apparel brand KÜHL ranked Big Bend National Park and Guadalupe Mountains National Park among the top 10 best national parks to spot wildlife, with both Texas sites offering people opportunities to encounter everything from colorful birds to elusive desert creatures in their natural habitat.
The rankings were determined by analyzing eight major categories of wildlife, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and more—factoring in both species diversity and visitor interest. “Wildlife spotting is one of the best ways to experience nature, and both Big Bend National Park and Guadalupe Mountains National Park offer some of the most incredible opportunities to see diverse species in a breathtaking setting,” said Oded Gross, marketing specialist at KÜHL, in a statement.
No. 3 – Big Bend National Park
With its astonishing variety of reptiles, birds, and mammals due to its location on the U.S.-Mexico border, Big Bend NP ranked third overall for wildlife watching on KÜHL’s list. Positioned where open desert landscapes meet dark, star-filled skies, Big Bend NP makes it relatively easy to spot animals, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
Home to 59 reptilian species—including sun-loving desert tortoises, harmless whiptail lizards, and Texas horned lizards—Big Bend NP leads among national parks for reptile spotting. The park comes in second for birdwatching, with 412 recorded avian species, including the brilliantly colored painted bunting and the social Mexican jay. “Texas was recently ranked the top U.S. state for birdwatching, and Big Bend plays a major role in that reputation,” read a news release.
Big Bend NP ranks fourth in the mammal category, with 80 species, including fuzzy javelinas, elusive bobcats, and agile kangaroo rats. Notably, black bears were left unmentioned in KÜHL’s release, though park-goers have frequently spotted the creatures roaming the Chisos Mountains in recent years as they make a comeback in the Trans-Pecos region.