The Rio Grande Valley is home to a wide variety of wildlife. This is in part due to its unique habitats and proximity to the coast and Mexico. With a little over 500 different species of birds that can visit the region during a year, the RGV is a birder’s paradise. Join Isidro Montemayor Jr., March 19, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. to learn about some of the Valley’s specialty birds as part of Quinta Mazatlán’s ongoing Thursday Night Live Speaker Series.

“Specialty birds” refers to species with highly specific ecological needs, often meaning they cannot easily adapt to new conditions, making them key indicators of healthy habitat. When birds live in an ecological niche, they have adapted to thrive in a specific place rather than across various geographical areas. What makes the Valley even more unique are the specialty birds that can only be found in South Texas. There are roughly 30 species of birds that are a must see when visiting the RGV.

Isidro Montemayor Jr. is a Valley native from La Paloma, TX who has enjoyed nature his entire life. Throughout his adult career Isidro has been a Park Ranger and Educator in Texas, Louisiana, Oregon, and Alaska teaching students about the area's native flora and fauna. His interest in birds steadily grew from his travels, and now Isidro spends his time birding throughout the Rio Grande Valley.

Join Isidro Thursday March 19th from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. to explore the different species of specialty birds who call the Rio Grande Valley home. This program is free with general admission. For more information, call (956) 681-3370 and follow Quinta Mazatlán on social media for updates.

 

 

 

Photo Caption: Isidro Montemayor Jr. is a well-known Birding Guide and Environmental Education Specialist at Quinta Mazatlán.