Board a private pontoon boat in Mission, Texas and drift the Rio Grande from Anzalduas Dam upriver toward La Joya — one of the most productive birding corridors in North America. This is the only place in the United States where you can see all three kingfisher species in a single morning.
The Rio Grande between Anzalduas Dam and La Joya is accessible only by boat, offering intimate views of riparian habitat that roadside birding cannot match. We drift quietly along the river, scanning the banks, overhanging branches, and exposed rocks where birds feed, bathe, and hunt.
South Texas is the only place in North America where all three kingfisher species — Ringed, Green, and Belted — share the same territory. Resident Ringed and Green Kingfishers are present year-round, and in winter the migratory Belted joins them along the riverbanks. Seeing all three in a single trip is entirely possible, and on good mornings, likely.
Beyond kingfishers, the river corridor hosts Green Jays, Altamira Orioles, Great Kiskadees, Neotropic Cormorants, and an impressive variety of herons and egrets. Hook-billed Kites and Gray Hawks patrol overhead. In winter, flocks of shorebirds and waterfowl crowd the sandbars.
Trips run 2 to 4 hours, morning or late afternoon into sunset. Maximum 4 guests ensures everyone gets great views and plenty of time with the guide.
The Rio Grande River between Anzalduas Dam and La Joya is a hidden gem for birders. Accessible only by boat, this stretch of river offers intimate views of riparian habitat that roadside birding simply can't match. We drift quietly along the Mexican side of the river, scanning the banks, overhanging branches, and exposed rocks where birds feed, bathe, and hunt.
South Texas is the only place in North America where all three kingfisher species — Ringed, Green, and Belted — share the same territory. Resident Ringed and Green Kingfishers are present year-round, and in winter the migratory Belted Kingfisher joins them along the riverbanks. Seeing all three in a single trip is entirely possible, and on good mornings, likely.
Beyond kingfishers, the river corridor hosts an extraordinary mix of resident South Texas specialties and migratory species. Expect Green Jays, Altamira Orioles, Great Kiskadees, Neotropic Cormorants, and an impressive variety of herons and egrets working the shallows. Hook-billed Kites and Gray Hawks patrol overhead. In winter, flocks of shorebirds and waterfowl crowd the sandbars.
Trips run 2 to 4 hours, either in the morning or late afternoon into sunset. Maximum 4 guests ensures everyone gets great views and plenty of time with the guide.
Private pontoon boat, expert river guide, all river access and fuel
Binoculars, food and drinks, personal gear
Full refund if cancelled 48 hours or more before trip. No refund for cancellations within 48 hours.