Sam Rayburn Lake Birdwatching
category : Birdwatching
Birds are probably the main category of wildlife that is of most interest to visitors of Lake Sam Rayburn. Songbirds can be found, depending on the season, in abundance at any of the parks. Waterfowl are best observed in fall and winter from the many bridges that cross the lake (SH 147 in middle of lake, SH 103 to the North, and FM 83 at Ayish Bayou). Wading birds, such as herons and egrets, can be found in the same areas, as well as US 96 at Devil's Ford between Brookeland and Pineland. Woodpeckers, including the endangered Red-cockaded Woodpecker, may be observed in Ebenezer Park and on the Angelina National Forest property between Ebenezer Park and Sandy Creek Park. Raptors, including Bald Eagles and Osprey, are most often encountered in fall and winter on the south end of the reservoir from RR 255 which runs along the top of the dam. Gulls and terns can be found near the powerhouse, especially when the generators are in operation. Species such as White Pelicans and Common Loons can be found in the winter depending on the weather, usually on the south end of the lake. Bobwhite and Mourning dove can be heard regularly near the project office, Ebenezer Park and the spillway area.Lake Sam Rayburn has been recently included in the "Great Texas Coastal Bird Trail - East Texas Coast" program sponsored by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department sponsors an annual Eagle count every January. If you would like to participate, please contact the project office and we can let you know the details.
Address: From Jasper, 15 mi NW on TX 63, then E on TX 255
Phone: 409-384-5716
Our Email: CESWF-OD-SR@swf.usace.army.mil
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