South Padre Island - Birds and the Beach

 Another day on South Padre Island!

This morning we got up early and went birding again.  We went to the same places as yesterday - still lots to see.  This afternoon we headed to the beach where Ralph went in for a swim (I just got in up to my knees).  The water temperature was a toasty 78. The beach was very, very crowded, but it was a Sunday afternoon.  It was super windy with sand getting all over everything so we didn't stay for very long.  The next several days are forecast to be very windy as well, so while we have had a great time here, we are ready to continue on our adventure.  

Tomorrow we head to Houston for one night and then on to New Orleans for three nights.

This is a Mangrove Warbler and apparently seeing it was a big deal as it doesn't often come as far north as the US.  In this picture, he is singing away.

Mama and ducklings right on the side of a parking lot.  

The water stays shallow for a very long time.   Ralph is way, way out there and the water isn't even up to his waist.

A very crowded beach.  It is understandable that everyone flocks here.  The temperature is cooler near the water and it was a very warm, humid day.

I thought this sign was funny.  We are used to seeing signs that say watch for deer, or bear, or moose, but sure never have seen one that says to watch out for a bird. 

The cactus are blooming here and are really pretty shades of orange, pink and yellow.