Birds and Other Wildlife of South Central Texas: A Handbook 9781477300343

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NUMBER TWENTY-FOUR THE CORRIE H ERRING HOOKS

SERIES

Birds and Other Wildlife of South Central Texas

Birds and Other Wildlife of South Central Texas A Handbook by Edward A. Kutac and S. Christopher Caran

University of Texas Press, Austin

Copyright © 1994 by the University of Texas Press All rights reserved Printed in the United States of America First edition, 1994 Requests for permission to reproduce material from this work should be sent to Permissions, University of Texas Press, Box 7819, Austin, t x 78713-7819. © The paper used in this publication meets the minimum requirements of American National Standard for Information Sciences —Permanence of Paper for Printed Library Materials, a n s i Z 3 9 . 4 8 - 1 9 8 4 . Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data Kutac, Edward A. Birds and other wildlife of south central Texas : a handbook / Edward A. Kutac, S. Christopher Caran. — 1st ed. p. cm. — (The Corrie Herring Hooks series : no. 24) Includes bibliographical references (p. ) and index. is b n 0-292-75550-3. — isb n 0-292-74315-7 (pbk.) 1. Bird watching—Texas—Guide­ books. 2. Wildlife watching—Texas—Guide­ books. 3. Wildlife viewing sites—Texas— Guidebooks. 4. Natural history—Texas— Guidebooks. 5. Birds—Texas. 6. Zoology— Texas. I. Caran, S. Christopher. II. Title. III. Series. Q L 68 4. T 4 K 8 7 7

1993

598'.o7234764—dc20

93-15432

Contents

Introduction and Acknowledgments CHAPTER

I

CHAPTER 2

Natural Features

vii

1

Locations of Interest to Naturalists

17

Maps following page 46 CHAPTER 3

Birds 47

CHAPTER 4

Mammals

CHAPTER 5

Amphibians and Reptiles

CHAPTER 6

Fishes

CHAPTER 7

Land Snails of Travis County

CHAPTER 8

Butterflies

APPENDIX.

Description of Terms

103 113

131 146

152

Selected References

165 169

Index of Natural Features and Locations by Counties

177

Index of Animals and Plants

183

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

Introduction and Acknowledgments THE OBJECTIVE of this guide is to provide residents of and visitors to South Central Texas with a concise overview of the natural features and biological diversity of the area. It is intended that the information be up-to-date and technically accurate yet presented in a manner accessible to any interested reader. The text includes the scientific and English (common) names of all birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fishes, land snails, and butterflies known or suspected to inhabit South Central Texas at present and /or in the historic past. Brief comments are provided regarding the current status, preferred habitat, and abundance of each species, along with other information where appropriate. Terms used to describe species characteristics are defined in the Appendix. Published sources of information concerning these species are cited in the Selected References. In the listing of birds, specific locations where certain spe­ cies have been observed previously are included. In Chapter 2, selected public lands and campgrounds are listed with facilities offered, and spe­ cial attention is given to bird-finding opportunities. For purposes of this guide, South Central Texas has been somewhat arbitrarily defined to include the following counties: Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Blanco, Burleson, Burnet, Caldwell, Comal, Fayette, Gillespie, Gonzales, Guadalupe, Hays, Kendall, Lee, Llano, Milam, Travis, and Williamson. These counties lie wholly or partly within a radius of 70 miles from Austin, Travis County, the state capital. This guide focuses on the natu­ ral history of these nineteen counties; however, the fauna, flora, geol­ ogy, and habitats discussed are represented in counties outside this area as well. In the pages that follow, South Central Texas will often be referred to as ''the area." Included within these nineteen counties are fifteen sites administered by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: Bastrop State Park, Blanco State Park, Buescher State Park, Enchanted Rock State

viii

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Natural Area, Guadalupe River State Park, Inks Lake State Park, Lake Somerville State Park, Lockhart State Park, Longhorn Cavern State Park, Lyndon B. Johnson State Historical Park, McKinney Falls State Park, Monument Hill/Kreische Brewery State Historical Parks, Old Tunnel Wildlife Management Area, Palmetto State Park, and Pedernales Falls State Park. Also, the parks of many of the cities, towns, and counties, as well as those of the Lower Colorado River Authority, provide at least limited opportunities for observing nature. Many of these parks are sig­ nificant natural areas. The diversity of flora and fauna at any given site is, of course, deter­ mined by the available habitats. Within its range, or the geographic area that a species normally occupies, individuals will likely be found only in their preferred habitats. For example, a typically marsh-dwelling bird probably will be found in a marsh, but not elsewhere in its range. Each habitat, in turn, is defined by its geology, physiography, soils, climate, vegetation, wildlife, and land use. The ecological diversity of South Central Texas will easily arouse the curiosity of the most avid naturalist. These nineteen counties encom­ pass a wide variety of habitats. The Balcones Fault System, a network of fractures in the Earth's crust, runs generally northeast to southwest across the middle of the area. There are relict pine forests in Bastrop County,- sphagnum peat bogs in Bastrop and Lee counties; hot springs near Gonzales; and tall-grass prairie remnants near Elgin. Some of the oldest rock formations in the state are found in the Llano Uplift region in Burnet, Llano, and Gillespie counties. Major cold-water springs emerge along faults in Austin, San Marcos, New Braunfels, and San Antonio, and there are numerous caves and other karst features in counties within and west of the Balcones Fault System. In addition, there are several longextinct volcanoes in southern Travis County, Pilot Knob being the most widely known. The Colorado River, with its origin in the Staked Plains region some 400 miles to the northwest, traverses the area northwest to southeast. Other rivers of the area include the Pedernales, Blanco, Guadalupe, San Marcos, Lampasas, Little, and San Gabriel, all draining southward and eastward off the Edwards Plateau. In addition, the entire chain of High­ land Lakes on the Colorado River is included, as are seven other major reservoirs. These recreational waterways and the many oil fields, rock quarries, feedlots, wastewater treatment facilities, farmlands, pastures, small towns, and sprawling metropolitan centers have created additional habitats shunned by many species but frequented by others. One of the intrinsic effects of land use is the development of a trans­ portation network. Many plants have capitalized on the creation of road­

Introduction and Acknowledgments

ix

way corridors with broad rights-of-way free from grazing. This is nearly the final refuge for some prairie species, whereas opportunistic "weedy" plants also take advantage of these open strips. Nearly 2,000 of the more than 4,800 vascular plants of Texas have been documented in the nineteen counties of the South Central Texas area, and many species can be seen along the roadsides. Spring is a par­ ticularly delightful time to drive through the countryside. Two species of bluebonnets occur in the area, Lupinus texensis, which grows in clayey soils, and L. subcarnosus, a species found in sandy soils. In addi­ tion to bluebonnets, wildflowers such as Indian paintbrush, Castilleja indivisa and C. purpurea; Indian blanket or firewheel, Gaillardia pulchella; and greenthread, Thelesperma filifolium, are found in great abun­ dance along roadways, particularly from mid-March to mid-April. Natu­ ral occurrences of these species are augmented along major highways with plantings by the Texas Department of Transportation. From midApril through May, look for Mexican evening primrose, Oenothera speciosa; lazydaisies Aphanostephus spp.; goldenmane coreopsis, Coreopsis basalis; and phlox, Phlox drummondii and P. roemeriana. A few excel­ lent roads for viewing wildflowers in spring are US 183 in Gonzales County, RR 1431 from Kingsland to SH 29 in Llano County, SH 29 from Burnet to Llano and beyond, and SH 71 between Austin and Bastrop. There are many other scenic routes, as well. Throughout this book, the scientific and English (common) names of grasses conform to The Grasses of Texas (Gould 1975). Other plant names conform to the Manual of the Vascular Plants of Texas (Correll and Johnston 1970). There have been numerous revisions and cor­ rections of plant names in the years since these references were pub­ lished, and some of these changes affect species mentioned in this book. As an aid to the reader, we have compiled a list of those changes in scientific names of which we are aware, in the order in which these species are mentioned in the book (see following page). Note spelling differences. In accordance with conventional usage, the English (common) names of birds are capitalized (for example, Mourning Dove and Blue Jay) throughout the text and in the bird checklist. A different convention has been adopted for other animals and all plants: English names for these species are not capitalized (for example, nine-banded armadillo and Texas bluebonnet) except in some taxonomic references. For this reason, En­ glish names of plants and all animals except birds are not capitalized in this handbook except in their respective checklists. Eventually, English names may become standardized for all organisms, allowing consistent treatment in publications of this kind.

Wildlife of South Central Texas

x

Correli and Johnston

Gould

Hatch et al.

( 19 70 )

( 19 75 )

(1990)

Carya illinoinensis Quercus fusiformis Q. sinuata var. breviloba

Not listed Not listed Not listed

Q. texana Bothriochloa saccharoides var. longipaniculata Fraxinus pensylvanica var. integerrima

Not listed B.s. var. longi­ paniculata

C. illinioensis Q. viiiginana Q. durandii var. breviloba Q. buckleyi B. longipani­ culata

Not listed

F. pennsyl-

Commelinantia anomala Berberis tìifoliolata

Not listed

Tinantia anomala Mahonia trifoliolata

Not listed

Johnston

¡1990)

C. illinoinensis Q. fusiformis Q. sinuata var. breviloba Q. buckleyi B. longipani­ culata F. pensylvanica var. subintegerrima Commelinantia anomala Berberis trifoliolata

Throughout the text, particularly in Chapter 2, frequent reference is made to specific highways and roads. Conventional abbreviations for road types have been used. These road types and abbreviations include: IH US SH FM RR RM CR PR

Interstate or Interregional Highway United States (Federal) Highway State (Texas) Highway Farm-to-Market Road Ranch Road Ranch-to-Market Road County Road Park Road

A publication of this kind results from the compilation of records and past experiences of a great many people (many unknown to the authors), and a debt of gratitude is due all of them. Everyone who has observed and reported a bird, mammal, reptile, amphibian, fish, land snail, or butterfly in the area has contributed directly or indirectly to this guide. Persons who contributed directly are Ben Archer, Diane Birsner, Joye Johnson, Nan Hampton, Clark Hubbs, Pat Johnson, Raymond Neck, David Riskind, Ernest Roney, Willie Sekula, Rickard Toomey III, and Sue Wiedenfeld. Clifton Ladd reviewed the entire manuscript while Ernest Lundelius reviewed the checklist of mammals and Greg Lasley and Law­ rence Buford reviewed the checklist of birds. A botanist who wished to remain anonymous reviewed Chapter 1. We thank these readers for their

Introduction and Acknowledgments

xi

invaluable comments and insights. The authors are also indebted to the Austin Parks and Recreation Department, Lower Colorado River Author­ ity, San Antonio Parks Department, Seguin Parks Department, Texas Department of Transportation, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Travis County Parks Department, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for maps and information requested. Ad­ ditional acknowledgments accompany each of the species checklists in the following chapters. Finally, thanks are due our wives, Amy and Kay, for their continued un­ derstanding and support. E.A.K. S.C.C.

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Birds and Other Wildlife of South Central Texas

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

CHAPTER I

Natural Features

SOUTH CENTRAL TEXAS includes portions of two major physio­ graphic provinces, the Great Plains and the Gulf Coastal Plains. In South Central Texas, these provinces are separated by a prominent natural land­ mark, the Balcones Escarpment, which roughly bisects the South Central Texas area. Interregional Highway 35 is located just east of the escarp­ ment through most of this area. The escarpment forms the conlmon boundary of many eastern and western species whose ranges do not over­ lap. For other species, this borderland affords unique habitat conditions, and some of these plants and animals are found nowhere else in the world. The Great Plains Province extends from central Canada southward through the west-central United States, east of the Rocky Mountains, and terminates in central Texas at the southern edge of the Edwards Pla­ teau. The Edwards Plateau is the southernmost major subdivision of this province. The Gulf Coastal Plains Province lies adjacent to the Gulf of Mexico and extends from northern Mexico through Texas, up the Missis­ sippi River valley as far as southern Illinois, and through the southeast­ ern states to the southern tip of Florida. In Texas, the Gulf Coastal Plains comprise marshes, prairies, and woodlands from the coastline westward to the Balcones Escarpment. Strong east-to-west environmental con­ trasts (related to topographic, climatic, and pedologic differences) com­ bine with a north-south temperature gradient and southward increase in the length of the growing season to enrich the area's overall ecological diversity. Within the area, the Edwards Plateau can be further divided into the Balcones Canyonlands or "Hill Country," the Llano Uplift, and the Lampasas Cut Plain. That portion of the Gulf Coastal Plains in the area encompasses parts of the Blackland Prairie (including the Fayette Prairie) and the Post Oak Savannah. Some authorities place southern­ most Bexar County in the Rio Grande Plain (or South Texas Plain) sec­ tion of the Gulf Coastal Plains Province, but we do not here subscribe to

2

Wildlife of South Central Texas

1. South Cen tral Te xas

Location of counties in this g ui debook

• South Central Texas a c co r d i n g to this gu i deb ook ■ Water shed

M iles

mm

0

20

Natural Features

3

2. G e o g r a p h ic Regions of South C en tral Texa s

Great Plains Province

Bastrop: BA

Gonzales: GO

Llano Uplift

Bell: BE

Guad alup e: GU

Bexar: BX Blanco: BC

Hays: HA

L a m p a s a s Cut Plain

Kendall: KE

Balcones Canyonlands Burleson: BR Lee: LE Burnet: BN Llano: LL Gulf Coastal Plains Province Caldwell: CA Milam: Ml Comal: CO Blackl and Prairie

Fayette: FA

Post Oak Sa va nn a h

Gillespie: Gl

Travis: TR Williamson: WM

( a d a p t e d f r o m W. K. F e rg u s o n , The G e o g ra p h ic P ro v in c e s o f T e xas [A ustin : T e x a s M osaics, 1 9 8 6 ] )

4

Wildlife of South Central Texas

that interpretation, instead treating southern Bexar County as part of both the Blackland Prairie and Post Oak Savannah regions. Each of these regions is discussed more fully below as is the escarpment itself.

Balcones Escarpment and Environmental Diversity The Balcones Escarpment is a major environmental boundary separat­ ing the steep, rocky hills of the state's interior from the flat to rolling plains of the humid coastal region. The escarpment was produced by geologic processes operating over millions of years. During most of the Cretaceous and Early Tertiary periods of Earth's history (from roughly 140 million to 58 million years before the present), South Central and South Texas were covered by ocean waters. For some 82 million years, sediment was continually deposited on the sea floor throughout this area. The resulting horizontal layers of sand, clay, limey mud, and other materials later became rock strata of Cretaceous age, which in some places are collectively more than 3,000 feet thick. Plant and animal re­ mains accumulated in the shallow seas and coastal flats and became fos­ silized, providing a glimpse of the distant past when dinosaurs and other extinct life forms thrived in South Central Texas. The Tertiary Period was a time of transition throughout this area as elsewhere. Between 58 million and 37 million years ago, much of South Central Texas alternated between periods of marine inundation and emer­ gence of coastal lowlands. Sediment accumulated in broad bays when ocean waters rose to their highest levels. During periods of low sea level, great rivers deposited vast quantities of sand and clay that ultimately became more than 4,000 feet of Tertiary sandstone and shale. Biological remains were once again preserved as fossils, which reveal the nature of environmental conditions at the time. Forests and swamplands were common on land while a wide variety of marine organisms thrived in the warm coastal waters. Since 37 million years ago, this area has remained above sea level. Rivers eroded older strata and deposited a veneer of sedi­ ment, much of which was later stripped away without a trace. Then, about 20 million years ago, major faults fractured the strata along a line running roughly northeast to southwest through what are now the communities of Hillsboro, Waco, Temple, Austin, San Marcos, New Braunfels, and San Antonio, then westward to near Uvalde and Del Rio. Rock layers to the east and south of this line began to slip downward along the break, producing some 600 feet of vertical shifting, or throw, at the Main (or Mount Bonnell) Fault in Austin. A series of roughly par­ allel faults developed, producing a combined throw of more than l fDOO feet in some places. These faults compose the Balcones Fault System, and the area of intense faulting is known as the Balcones Fault Zone.

Natural Features

5

On the eastern and southern sides of the Balcones faults, relatively young rock formations consisting of Late Cretaceous-age strata were displaced downward into contact with older rock layers of Early Creta­ ceous age lying west and north of the faults. The older and harder Early Cretaceous limestone deposits contrast sharply with the younger, more easily eroded, soft Late Cretaceous limestones and shales. A long interval of intense weathering subsequently created the dramatic differences in landscape visible today: steep, rocky hills on the "up" side of the fault zone to the west and north were left in stark relief above low, rolling hills, and broad valleys cut into strata on the "down" side to the east and south. The transition is so abrupt, in fact, that in many areas a near ver­ tical cliff, the Balcones Escarpment, has resulted. (An excellent point from which to view the Escarpment today is Mount Bonnell City Park in western Austin.) Rivers draining southward and eastward to the Gulf of Mexico cut deep, narrow canyons through the Balcones Escarpment as the rivers adjusted to the difference in elevation across the fault zone. Sand and gravel deposits were stranded at various levels along the valley walls, particularly in the areas immediately east and south of the fault zone, as the rivers cut ever deeper. The Generalized Geologic Map il­ lustrates the surface geology of South Central Texas. Refer also to the generalized cross section (Figure i) which depicts geologic, biologic, and topographic variations, as well as topographic features of the major phys­ iographic provinces. The hard Early Cretaceous-age limestones typically give rise to thin, stony soils, whereas the softer Late Cretaceous limestones and shales allow development of thick, arable soils. Differences in soil types influ­ ence both the natural vegetative cover and potential land use. Thick soils of the Gulf Coastal Plains support tillage agriculture, which has shaped much of the history of the region. In contrast, thin soils of the Edwards Plateau provide few opportunities for cultivation, such that most of the region has been given over to a ranching economy. Exceptions to this pat­ tern are the vineyards and fruit orchards of the Llano Uplift, where sandy soils predominate, and the pecan groves of river bottoms, which have thick alluvial soils and shallow ground water. The Balcones faults were thus indirectly responsible for much of the present character of the area. As is to be expected, variations in topography and other factors pro­ duced floristic differences across the area. The Gulf Coastal Plains were originally unbroken ribbons of riverside (riparian) forests and upland tallgrass prairies, brushlands, and woodlands, although few intact areas of natural vegetation remain. Plant associations of the Edwards Plateau in­ clude upland and riparian woodlands, particularly in spring-fed portions of the Balcones Canyonlands, and mixed-grass and short-grass prairies. These associations are discussed separately below.

6

Wildlife of South Central Texas

3. G e n eralize d Geologic Map of South Ce ntral Texas

B alc ones Fa ult Z o n e Luling Fa ult Zone

B alc ones Fault Z one

□

Qal

Qu ate rnar y alluvium

Tom

Tertiary (Oligocene; Miocene)

PI Te

/ y,

Tertiary (Eocene: Cl aibor ne, Jac kson)

Tpe

Tertiary (Paleoc ene ; Eocene: Wilcox)

Ku

U p per Cretace ous

KI2

Lower Cretaceous (F re de ri cks bu rg , Washita)

Ü KI1

Lower Cretaceous (Trinity)

PCP

P r e c a m b r ia n ; Paleozoi c

—

Fault

Major episodes of faulting: Pennsylvanian

Period System and other faul ts of the Inner Coastal Plains) ( a d a p t e d f r o m H. B. R e n fr o , D. E. Feray, o n d P. B. King, G e o lo g ic a l H ig h w a y M ap o f Texas [T u ls a: A m e r i c a n A ssocia tion of P e tr o le u m Geologists, 1 9 7 3 ] )

Natural Features

S a n S a b a Co.

Llano Co.

B urnet

Travis Co.

7

B astro p

Fayette

C o lo r a d o

Co.

Co.

Co.

Co.

B alc ones B l a c k C a n y o n - la nd la n d s P r a ir ie Post O a k S a v a n n a h

Llano U plift NW

SE

P a le o z o ic ft A / \ PCm 2000 -, L

B alc ones Fa ult Z o n e

Luling F ault Zone

P a le o z o ic \

\lu ra s s ic Precam b rian

0

10 2 0 3 0 4 0 5 0

Miles

V e r tic a l e x a g g e r a t io n : 2 0 x

I

P a le o z o ic ( f o ld e d a n d

C r e t a - I T e rtia r y ceous

thrust fau lted , ( as wel1 as in p a r t ) J u ra s s ic s tr a ta d o w n dip )

Tom

Tertiary

Te

Tertiary

Tpe

Tertiary

Ku

U pp er Cret aceous

Arrows indicate relative

KI2

Lower Cret aceous

motion of blocks on

KI1

Lower C retaceous

No rmal fault

N ^ ^ T h r u s t faul t

opposite sides of faul t pl ane.

Paleozoic PCi ^

PCm

Folded strata

P r e c a m b r i a n (i gn eous) Precambrian (m e ta m o rp h ic )

( a d a p t e d f r o m H. B. R e n fr o , D. E. Fe ra y, a n d P. B. King, G e o lo g ic a l H ig h w a y M ap o f T exas [T uls a: A m e r i c a n A ss o cia tio n of P e tr o le u m Geolo gis ts, 1 9 7 3 ] )

8

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Edwards Plateau The Edwards Plateau is recognized as a distinct geologic and physio­ graphic region characterized by limestones of the Lower Cretaceous Se­ ries and in the Llano Uplift, by rocks of varying composition and age (mostly pre-Cretaceous). In South Central Texas, the plateau can be di­ vided into three subregions: the Llano Uplift (also called the Central Basin and the Central Mineral Region) west of Burnet; the Balcones Canyonlands (also known as the Hill Country) adjacent to and west of the Balcones Escarpment; and the Lampasas Cut Plain, that portion of the Edwards Plateau drained by tributaries of the Brazos River. The true plateau portion of the Edwards Plateau lies west of the South Cen­ tral Texas area as here defined. The most widely publicized vertebrates of the Edwards Plateau (all three local subregions) are the Golden-cheeked Warbler, Dendroica chrysoparia, and Black-capped Vireo, Vireo atricapillus, each of which is listed as an endangered species by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. In South Central Texas, both are restricted to the Edwards Plateau. Golden­ cheeked Warblers nest exclusively in Texas in a narrow band adjacent to and west of the Balcones Escarpment. See Chapter 3 for known locations both within and outside the nineteen-county area covered by this hand­ book where these two species can likely be observed in spring. Other vertebrates whose eastern boundaries occur at or near the Balcones Es­ carpment include Common Poorwill, Phalaenoptilus nuttallii; Goldenfronted Woodpecker, Melanerpes aurifrons; Ladder-backed Woodpecker, Picoides scalaris; Black-chinned Hummingbird, Archilochus alexandri; Ash-throated Flycatcher, Myiarchus cinerascens; Scrub fay, Aphelocoma coerulescens; Verdin, Auriparus flaviceps; Canyon Wren, Catherpes mexicanus; Bell's Vireo, Vireo bellii; Canyon Towhee, Pipilo fuscus; Rufouscrowned Sparrow, Aimophila ruficeps; Black-throated Sparrow, Amphispiza bilineata; House Finch, Carpodacus mexicanus; Lesser Goldfinch, Carduelis psaltria; cave myotis, Myotis velifer incautus; Mexican ground squirrel, Spermophilus m ex ica n u srock squirrel, Spermophilus variegatus; Merriam's pocket mouse, Perognathus merriami; white-ankled mouse, Peromyscus pectoralis; American badger, Taxidea taxus; cliff chirping frog, Syrrhophus marnockii; eastern green toad, Bufo debilis debilis; great plains skink, Eumeces obsoletus; Texas alligator lizard, Gerrhonotus liocephalus infernales; Texas night snake, Hypsiglena torquata jani; Texas longnose snake, Rhinocheilus lecontei tessellatus; and plains blackhead snake, Tantilla nigriceps. Numerous invertebrates are restricted to the Edwards Plateau or there reach the eastern limit of their range. See the checklists of land snails and butterflies later in this book and refer to publications cited in the Selected References.

Natural Features

9

Llano Uplift

The Llano Uplift area of Llano County and most adjacent counties is a tectonic uplift or dome of Paleozoic sedimentary strata and Precam­ brian igneous and metamorphic rocks. These rocks have been deeply eroded, forming an irregular topographic basin surrounded by hills of hard erosion-resistant Lower Cretaceous (Early Cretaceous-age) lime­ stone. Approximately one billion years ago, molten rock, or magma was pushed toward the surface by pressures in the Earth's mantle and crust. The magma solidified into discrete masses of igneous rock called batholiths. Intrusion of the molten rock caused preexisting strata to be meta­ morphosed. These igneous and metamorphic rocks were gradually buried by marine sediment of Cambrian to Pennsylvanian age (570 million to 286 million years before present). The area was then uplifted, forming a broad dome with Precambrian batholiths and metamorphic rocks at its core and Paleozoic strata dipping away from the center of the uplift. Much later, after a long period of erosion, a sequence of Lower Creta­ ceous sandstones and limestones covered the entire area; eventually, however, this overburden was breached and stripped away by additional erosion, revealing the underlying Precambrian granites, gneisses, and schists and Paleozoic sandstones, limestones, and shales as well as the Lower Cretaceous sandstones and limestones at the borders of the Llano Uplift. Soils of the uplift are largely derived from these diverse rock types, which in weathering leave a calcareous sandy residue. The plants of this region are well adapted to these soils. Typical vegetation includes post oak, Quercus stellata; blackjack oak, Q. marilandica; cedar elm, Ulmus crassifolia; Arizona walnut, Juglans major; buffalograss, Buchloe dactyloides; common curlymesquite, Hilaria belangeri; Texas grama, Bouteloua rigidiseta; sideoats grama, B. curtipendula; and hairy grama, B. hirsuta. Peaches are a major agricultural product in soils developed on Lower Cretaceous sands in eastern Gillespie County, at the margin of the uplift, and grapes grown in this area support a flourishing wine industry. Several species of plant, such as rock quillwort, Isoetes lithophylla, and basin bellflower, Campanula reverchonii, are largely or exclusively con­ fined to granite outcrops and their associated soils. Balcones Canyonlands

The Balcones Canyonlands subregion is deeply dissected by streams and is noted for its scenic ruggedness and biological diversity. Much of the region is subject to severe erosion, even under the best land management. Nearly one-third of the Balcones Canyonlands consists of barren rock outcrops and rough, stony, steep slopes with little or no soil cover. The canyonlands are predominantly rangeland, with cultivation restricted to the deeper soils of river valleys. Except for the deep, fertile, clayey sands

10

Wildlife of South Central Texas

along streams, soils over virtually the entire region are stony, shallow, and highly calcareous. Bottomland soils may have low concentrations of lime in their topsoils, while their subsoils are calcareous, and they usu­ ally overlie limestone or marl. Many trees thrive in the bottomlands and spring-fed canyons, including cedar elm, Ulmus crassifolia; little wal­ nut, fuglans microcarpa; Texas redbud, Cercis canadensis; sugar hackberry, Celtis laevigata; pecan, Carya illinoinensis (C. illinioensis); and baldcypress, Taxodium distichum. In contrast, the uplands sustain pla­ teau live oak, Quercus fusiformis (Q. virginiana); shin oak, Q. sinuata var. breviloba (Q. durandii var. breviloba); Spanish oak, Q. texana (Q. buckleyi); Ashe juniper (commonly called cedar), Juniperus ashei; mescalbean (commonly called mountain laurel), Sophora secundiflora; and honey mesquite, Prosopis glandulosa. Common grasses include little bluestem, Schizachyrium scoparium; Texas grama, Bouteloua rigidiseta; Texas wintergrass, Stipa leucotricha; common curlymesquite, Hilaria belangeri; buffalograss, Buchloe dactyloides; and seep muhly, Muhlenbergia reverchonii. The limestones of the Edwards Plateau are porous and contain numer­ ous caves and vertical sinkholes. Enormous quantities of rainwater and runoff seep into and thus recharge the limestone aquifers, which serve as natural underground reservoirs. The most important of these is the Edwards Aquifer. A myriad of aquatic and nonaquatic cave-dwelling or­ ganisms occupy caverns throughout this aquifer. Long isolated from con­ tact with other breeding populations, the Edwards Aquifer cave fauna in­ cludes a disproportionately large percentage of species known only from this region, including several endangered species. Springs discharging from the Edwards Aquifer supply the headwaters of countless streams and supplement the flow of several rivers. The aquifer is also an impor­ tant source of well water. Major springs along the Balcones Escarpment include Comal Springs, the headwaters of the Comal River in Landa Park, New Braunfels; San Marcos Springs, which form Spring Lake at the head of the San Marcos River in San Marcos; San Pedro and other springs that are the headwaters of the San Antonio River in San Antonio,- and Barton Springs, with an average flow of 37 million gallons per day, in Zilker Park, Austin. The communities that grew up near these springs and rivers were founded by early settlers who knew the value of a con­ stant source of pure water. Lampasas Cut Plain Northeast of the Llano Uplift and north of the Colorado River basin is the region known as the Lampasas Cut Plain. The Lampasas Cut Plain is characterized by grass-covered low hills and oak-juniper woodlands, al-

Natural Features

11

though much of the land has been cleared for grazing. There are many similarities between this region and the Balcones Canyonlands in terms of geology, soils, and physiography. In both regions, thin, stony soils cover broad hills, and narrow valleys cut into Lower Cretaceous lime­ stones, although sandstones become more widespread to the north. There are, however, significant botanical differences. For example, Ashe juni­ per, Juniperus ashei, is common in the uplands of both regions, but the plateau live oak, Quercus fusiformis (Q. virginiana), of the Balcones Canyonlands is gradually replaced northward by post oak, Q. stellata, and blackjack oak, Q. marilandica, which dominate the Cross Timbers near Dallas (north of South Central Texas). Canyon habitats, so impor­ tant to the flora of the canyonlands, become less common northward, and most of the canyon species are progressively eliminated. Grasslands also change to the north, where remnants of once vast, treeless prairies provide a glimpse of the past. Although all of the grasses and many of the upland forbs that are found in the Balcones Canyonlands are present in the Lampasas Cut Plain, many of these species are more common to the north. The Lampasas Cut Plain is, therefore, an ecotonal or transitional region biologically, affording a bridge between the restricted species as­ sociations of the Edwards Plateau and the formerly widespread woodland and true prairie associations of the Central Lowland Province north of the Lampasas Cut Plain. Yet even the vegetational components of the two areas are becoming more alike because of progressive invasion of the grasslands by scrub species. The shallow soils of both the Lampasas Cut Plain and the Balcones Canyonlands are easily disturbed by human influence.

Gulf Coastal Plains The Gulf Coastal Plains encompass a suite of habitats very different from those of the Great Plains. In South Central Texas, the major regions of the Gulf Coastal Plains are the Blackland Prairie and Post Oak Savan­ nah. The Blackland Prairie is the down-faulted block of soft limestones and clays of Late Cretaceous age, which forms the low, mostly flat, for­ merly grass-covered terrain at the foot of the Balcones Escarpment. The escarpment thus serves as the western boundary of the prairie. East of the Blackland Prairie is a zone of Early Tertiary-age sandstones and shales, the Post Oak Savannah, which is a rolling landscape with dense woodlands. These regions form parallel bands extending through the South Central Texas area from northeast to southwest. The Gulf Coastal Plains support a wide-ranging fauna. Vertebrates reaching their western range limits along or near the Balcones Escarp­

12

Wildlife of South Central Texas

ment include the Crested Caracara, Polyborus plancus; Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Archilochus colubris; Red-bellied Woodpecker, Melanerpes carolinus; Great Crested Flycatcher, Myiarchus crinitus; Eastern Kingbird, Tyrannus tyrannus; Blue Jay, Cyanocitta cristata; Prothonotary Warbler, Protonotaria citrea; Common Grackle, Quiscalus quiscula; eastern mole, Scalopus aquaticus; swamp rabbit, Sylvilagus aquaticus; eastern gray squirrel, Sciurus carolinensis; northern pygmy mouse, Baiomys taylorii; eastern woodrat, Neotoma floridana; smallmouth sal­ amander, Ambystoma texanum; central newt, Notophthalmus viridescens louisianensis; Hurter's spadefoot, Scaphiopus holbrookii hurterii; green treefrog, Hyla cinerea; upland chorus frog, Pseudacris feriarum feriarum; southern leopard frog, Rana utricularia utricularia; western chicken turtle, Deirochelys reticularia miaria; three-toed box turtle, Terrapene Carolina triunguis; western slender glass lizard, Ophisaurus attenuatus attenuatus; and broad-banded water snake, Nerodia fasciata confluens. The Balcones Escarpment provides an abrupt environmental transition, restricting the western distribution of these and many other species, including invertebrates and plants. Blackland Prairie

Occupying a narrow zone from the Balcones Escarpment eastward for 20 to 30 miles is the Blackland Prairie, which is underlain by Upper Cre­ taceous clays and soft limestones. The Blackland Prairie extends from the Red River southward to near San Antonio. The soils of this region are deep, dark, and clay-rich and are among the most productive croplands in the state. Prior to the local advent of agriculture, the Gulf Coastal Plains were virtually uninterrupted grasslands. Honey mesquite, Prosopis glandulosa; sugar hackberry, Celtis laevigata; and other woody vege­ tation has invaded areas improperly farmed and overgrazed, resulting in the loss of almost all of the original prairie. The true prairie consisted of a mixed grassland dominated by little bluestem, Schizachyrium scoparium. Other important grasses were (and in a few places, remain) big bluestem, Andropogon gerardii; yellow indiangrass, Sorghastrum nu­ tans; switchgrass, Panicum virgatum; sideoats grama, Bouteloua curtipendula; tall dropseed, Sporobolus asper; silver bluestem, Bothriochloa saccharoides (B. longipaniculata); and Texas wintergrass, Stipa leucotricha. A vast array of wildflowers cover remaining prairie remnants in sea­ son, including true prairie species and formerly uncommon plants that have become abundant in disturbed grasslands: Texas bluebonnet, Lupinus texensis; Texas paintbrush, Castilleja indivisa; obedient-plant, Physostegia pulchella; cobaea penstemon (commonly called foxglove), Pmstemon cobaea; poppymallow or winecup, Callirhoe involucrata; and

Natural Features

13

Engelmann daisy, Engelmannia pinnatifida, among many others. Along major waterways, pecan, Carya illinoinensis (C. illinioensis); American elm, Ulmus americana; red ash, Fraxinus pensylvanica (F. pennsylvanica); sugar hackberry, Celtis laevigata; eastern cottonwood, Populus deltoides; American sycamore, Platanus occidentalis; boxelder, Acer negundo; and other woody vegetation are dominant. Post Oak Savannah

In areas where sandy soils replace clayey soils on the inner Gulf Coastal Plains east of the Blackland Prairie, prairies give way to a savan­ nah dominated by post oaks. This plant association is so conspicuous that its name is applied to the region as a whole. As its name implies, the Post Oak Savannah was originally a grassy plain where trees were isolated or confined to groves, or mottes. Woodlands of post oak, Quercus stellata, and blackjack oak, Q. marilandica, originally occupied only narrow strips throughout the region but extended laterally as the prairies were destroyed by cultivation and grazing. Yaupon, Ilex vomitoria, is a very common understory shrub. Important grasses, in addition to those of the Blackland Prairie, include Texas cupgrass, Eriochloa sericea; east­ ern gamagrass, Tripsacum dactyloides; rough tridens, Tridens muticus; Florida paspalum, Paspalum floridanum; and Canada wildrye, Elymus canadensis. American beautyberry, Callicarpa americana; coralbean, Erythrina herbacea; and spiderwort, Tradescantia spp., are among the more conspicuous wildflowers. Within the Post Oak Savannah in Bastrop County, there is a popula­ tion of loblolly pines, Pinus taeda, known as the "Lost Pines," which are separated from the main body of pines in the East Texas forests. Appar­ ently, the deep, moist, acidic, sandy soil developed on sandstones of the Tertiary Carrizo, Reklaw, and Queen City formations provides the pines and associated biota with conditions suitable for their survival in an en­ vironment that today is otherwise unfavorable. Porous gravel deposited by the ancestral Colorado River covers the Tertiary formations of this area and may enhance storage and gradual infiltration of supplemental moisture. The Lost Pines provide some of the best habitat in the area covered by this guide for a number of vertebrate species, including the Houston toad, Pileated Woodpecker, and Pine, Hooded, Kentucky, and Swainson's warblers.

Climate Part of the diversity that characterizes biogeographical regions of South Central Texas is the result of climatic variations. As is true in all

14

W ildlife of South Central Texas

Thirty-Year Temperature and Rainfall Data, 1951-1980 Temperature (degrees F) County, Elevation of Reporting Station in Feet above Mean Sea Level

Means Average January Annual Annual Rainfall Mean High Low

August High

Low

Num­ ber of FrostFree Days

Bastrop (3 1 5 )

36.5

68

62

38

98*

72

268

Bell (700)

33.8

67

57*

36

97

72

260

Bexar (788)

29.1

69

62

39

95

74*

265

Blanco (1350 )

34.7

65*

60

33

95

69

234

Burleson (263)

39.1*

67

58

37

94

72

275

Burnet (13 20 )

30.4

65*

59

33

94

70

230

Caldwell (405)

34.7

68

61

37

96

72

275

Comal (7 1 8 )

33.6

69

62

38

97

73

261

Fayette (425)

37.4

69

62

41*

96

72

27 7 *

61

36

94

68

21 9 *

66

Gillespie (1747)

28.7

Gonzales (406)

32.6

70*

64

41*

97

72

276

Guadalupe (505)

31.4

69

63 *

40

97

72

267

Hays (600)

34.3

67

61

36

96

71

254

Kendall (1422)

32.2

6 5*

60

35

93*

68*

236

Lee (465)

35.1

67

58

38

94

72

273

Llano (1040)

26.6*

66

60

32*

97

71

229

M ilam (393)

34.3

68

61

38

96

72

256

Travis (597)

31.5

68

59

39

95

74*

270

Williamson (570)

34.2

67

58

35

97

72

258

Adapted from 'The Climate of Texas Counties/' 1987, Natural Fibers Informa­ tion Center, University of Texas, Austin. * Extremes for area (duplicate values at some stations].

of Texas, average rainfall generally increases in the area from west to east and from south to north. The accompanying table provides a climatic summary of data from representative sites in the nineteen counties. The highest recorded temperature in the area has been 1 1 3 0F. (August 1953) and the lowest, -6 ° F. (January 1949); both records were set in Llano County. Throughout the area, daily temperature variations in Au­

Natural Features

15

gust generally range from the low 7o's to the high go's with readings over ioo° occurring on a few days most summers. In January, temperatures usually vary between the mid-3o's and about 6o° F. Other modifying cli­ matic factors include a high evaporation rate (potential evaporation ex­ ceeds the amount of precipitation in most years) and a growing season averaging 219 to 277 days per year in the northern and southern parts of the area, respectively. In general, years of below-average rainfall are the rule and aboveaverage rainfall the exception. Extended drouth is not uncommon and with very rapid runoff, especially to the west, effective aridity through much of the area is even greater than the normal rainfall amounts would seemingly indicate. Rainstorms along and west of the Balcones Escarp­ ment are often intense but small and fast moving, which limits the rain­ fall received at any given site on an annual basis. Most of the rainfall occurs in spring and early autumn. At these times of the year, warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico is blown inland by prevailing south-southeasterly winds. When the moisture-laden gulf air mass overrides the escarpment and meets a dry frontal system from the north or west, thunderstorms may be triggered supplying most of the spring rains for the area. Based on past records, rainstorms exceeding 10 inches in 24 hours occur, on average, once each decade, and 24-hour rains in excess of 6 inches occur once every two years. This record is based on data from existing reporting rain gauges; the actual frequency is probably higher because the network of gauges is sparse compared to the small size and uneven distribution of local, high-intensity rain­ storms. There are also those times, mainly in the early fall, when hurri­ canes come ashore on the Texas coast, move inland a few hundred miles, then break up into individual storm cells depositing very large quantities of rain in a short period of time. The Edwards Plateau will experience a hurricane breakup of this type two or three times in a 10-year period. The largest 24-hour rainfall total ever recorded in the area was mea­ sured near Thrall, Williamson County, where 38.2 inches fell in the storm of September 9 -10, i9 2 i.In the United States, this deluge is ex­ ceeded only by an unofficial record of 43 inches at Alvin in southeast Texas, July 25, 1979, during Hurricane Claudette. Heavy rainstorms oc­ cur in the area along the escarpment with greater frequency than is true elsewhere. Rains such as the above have produced heavy flooding and are responsible for intermittent stream flows greater here than in compa­ rable watersheds anywhere else in the continental United States. Flood­ ing on the Edwards Plateau is further accentuated by the steepness of the hills and valleys and by the spareness of vegetation that might other­ wise retard the resulting rapid runoff. Also, inland hurricane-associated

16

Wildlife of South Central Texas

storms generally concentrate over a very small area, producing stream flows many times the normal carrying capacity of the natural drainage system. Hardly a year passes without loss of life, and extensive prop­ erty damage, due to flash floods somewhere along the Balcones Escarp­ ment. These conditions make development on floodplains particularly hazardous.

CHAPTER 2

Locations of Interest to Naturalists THIS CHAPTER gives directions to and information about sixty-eight parks, preserves, lakes, and other areas which the authors consider of interest to residents and visitors wishing to study and enjoy the wide diversity of habitats and the flora and fauna of the nineteen counties of South Central Texas. Included are fourteen areas administered by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, seven owned by the Lower Colo­ rado River Authority (most operated by others), twenty-two areas man­ aged by cities, and nine areas operated by other entities, along with thir­ teen lakes, plus areas for locating wildlife in three cities. Twenty-six other locations are mentioned but not described in detail. Locations are grouped by counties, which are listed in alphabetical order. Special em­ phasis has been placed on bird-finding possibilities and on the types of facilities offered at each location. Most locations are readily accessible to the public. If fees or permission are required for entry, that information is included also.

Bastrop County 3,500 acres, P.O. Box 518, Bastrop, TX 78602, (512) 321-2101, is 1 mile east of Bastrop. From Bastrop, drive east on SH 71/21; then go east on SH 21/95 a short distance, south on SH 21 to the top of the hill, and enter on Park Road 1. The park, along with Buescher State Park, encloses a large portion of the remaining "Lost Pines of Texas/' an isolated stand of the loblolly pine approximately 180 miles west of their principal range. Pine Warbler and Pileated Woodpecker are permanent residents. Other nesting birds include the Barred Owl, Yellow-throated Vireo, Northern Parula, Black-and-white Warbler, and Red-shouldered Hawk. Wintering species frequently found include Red-breasted Nuthatch, Solitary Vireo, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Purple Finch, and Hermit Thrush. b a s t r o p s t a t e p a rk ,

18

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Facilities available include campsites, group barracks and mess hall, lodge, cabins, picnicking sites, restrooms with showers, playgrounds, swimming pool, nine-hole golf course, an outdoor sports area, a small lake, and an 8.5-mile hiking trail. b u e s c h e r s t a t e p a rk , 1,017 acres, P.O. Box 75, Smithville, TX 78957, (512) 237-2241, is 2 miles northwest of Smithville. From SH 71, drive north on FM 153 for 0.5 mile,- enter on Park Road iC. The walk around the small lake at Buescher State Park is good in all seasons for seeking the Red-shouldered Hawk and Barred Owl. Northern Parula nests in spring and summer, and waterfowl can be found on the lake in winter. Camping and picnicking areas, a group facility, recreational hall, shel­ ters, restrooms with showers, and a playground are provided. A portion of the park has been redesignated as the University of Texas Environmen­ tal Science Park, a cancer research facility. The scenic 13 -mile drive between Bastrop and Buescher state parks on Park Road iC through the pines is particularly rewarding. The only Ham­ mond's Flycatcher recorded in the eastern half of Texas was found one February near where Alum Creek crosses Park Road iC. Species which have nested along this creek include Swainson's, Kentucky, and Hooded warblers. Red Crossbill has been a very rare winter visitor. l a k e b a s t r o p , 906 acres, created by the Lower Colorado River Au­ thority to provide cooling water for power generation, is between SH 21 and SH 95, 3 miles north of Bastrop. At the present time, North Shore Park is operated by the Lower Colorado River Authority and is open to the public. To reach the park, drive north from Bastrop on SH 95 about 3 miles to FM 1441; then go east on FM 1441, 2.4 miles to the entrance sign. Features include camping, fishing, boat launching, swimming, and picnicking. There is also a small store for buying snacks. Formerly the authority operated a park on the south shore, but this facility has been leased to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and will be developed into a state park. North Shore Park will also become a state park after the south shore is opened to the public several years hence. The lake is the winter home for a variety of water birds. Usually pres­ ent are American Wigeon, Gadwall, and large numbers of American Coot. Osprey is found in fall, winter, and spring, and occasionally a Bald Eagle is spotted over the water. Check the brushy cover along the roads approaching the lake as well as around the lake for land birds. The county roads in Bastrop County are favorable for observing resi­ dent Common Grackle. In winter, look for Brewer's and Rusty black­ birds. Also, Zone-tailed Hawks have been recorded on several Christmas Counts. One such road is an unpaved road from Elgin to Bastrop, west of

Locations of Interest to Naturalists

19

and more or less parallel to SH 95 through Sayersville. Sayersville is more easily located on county maps than it is found from the road. From Elgin, drive south on SH 95 for 0.5 mile to County Road 49, which becomes County Road 179 at Sayersville; then after 4.8 miles, it becomes County Road 157, which leads to Bastrop. Through small land holdings and large ranches, the road traverses grasslands, brushy fence rows, pecan bottoms, woodlands with and without dense undergrowth, and several creek cross­ ings. The variety of habitats make this an excellent drive in winter for a dozen or so sparrow species as well as a variety of other winter residents. The stream crossings can be especially productive for migrants in spring and fall. Red-shouldered Hawk and Crested Caracara are permanent res­ idents. Painted Buntings are always present in spring and summer. Another good bird-finding spot is the road along the Colorado River in Tahitian Village, a subdivision on SH 71 at the southeast edge of Bas­ trop. There is an abundance of riparian habitat along the river as well as grasslands and open woodlands. Pileated Woodpeckers are found occa­ sionally along this road.

Bell County s t i l l h o u s e h o l l o w la k e , 6,430 acres, is located approximately 8 miles southwest of Belton on FM 1670. This U.S. Army Corps of Engi­ neers impoundment on the Lampasas River is formed by a dam on the Lampasas River. Facilities include parks with boat ramps as well as camping and picnicking areas on the north and south shores. Depending on demand and budget constraints, some of the parks may be closed some seasons. Bald Eagle, Osprey, American White Pelican, and Double-crested Cor­ morant can be seen roosting on dead trees in the middle of the reservoir throughout the winter months and during migrations. An excellent bird location especially in fall, winter, and spring is the wildlife management area on the south shore of the lake just east of River's Bend Park. To reach the wildlife management area, drive west on FM 2484 5.4 miles from its intersection with FM 1670. At the village of Union Grove, take the right­ most road to a locked gate. From there, park and walk to the shoreline. At the end of this road are extensive mudflats frequented by shorebirds during migration. Ring-billed Gulls and Forster's Terns, along with nu­ merous waterfowl species, are usually present in winter. West of the mudflats are dense woods where Connecticut and Mourning warblers, Lazuli Bunting, and many other migrants have been seen. Union Grove Park west of the wildlife management area is also a fa­ vorable birding area. Another place for birding is the area along the Lam­

20

Wildlife of South Central Texas

pasas River just below the dam. A nature trail leads through a riparian area with tall trees and dense undergrowth. Not only is the area rich in wildlife, it also has a colorful local history. The cedar-covered, steep-walled canyons of the Edwards Plateau and the Lampasas Cut Plain offered excellent hiding places for moonshiners dur­ ing the Prohibition Era of the 1920's and i93o;s. Many "stillhouses" were operated here during this period. Thus the name Stillhouse Hollow Lake is especially appropriate. b e l t o n la k e , 12,300 acres at conservation pool level, is approxi­ mately 3 miles north of Belton and 14 miles northwest of Temple. The lake is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers impoundment on the Leon River. The corps has thirteen parks around the lake, most offering boat ramps and camping and picnicking areas. Some offer a fishing barge, restaurant, snack bar, and showers, besides camping and picnicking, o w l c r e e k p a r k on the north side of Belton Lake affords many birding opportunities. To reach Owl Creek Park from Belton, drive north on SH 317; or from Temple, drive north on SH 36 to the intersection of SH 317 and SH 36. Then go north on SH 36 approximately 6.5 miles to the Owl Creek Park sign, turn left and drive 1.1 miles on the road to the "Y "; then turn left and drive 2.2 miles to the Owl Creek Nature Area. The area, a cooperative effort of the Twin Lakes Audubon Society and the corps, is characterized by lake frontage, fallow fields, and mixed hardwoodjuniper woodlands. Extensive native plantings are currently in progress, and a nature trail is planned. Also, a guidebook is being prepared to en­ hance hikes along the trail. Painted Buntings are common summer residents here. The extensive marshes are excellent for sparrows in fall and winter, including Field, Vesper, Lark, Fox, Song, Lincoln's, White-crowned, and Harris'. In the wooded uplands look for Red-bellied, Ladder-backed, and Downy wood­ peckers, along with the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Northern Flicker, Her­ mit Thrush, Orange-crowned Warbler, Rufous-sided Towhee, Chipping Sparrow, and American Goldfinch. The water should be checked for gulls, terns, and waterfowl. The area is excellent for recording spring and fall migrants. te m p le l i o n s p a r k is located in southwest Temple and is operated by the Temple Parks and Recreation Department. To drive to the park from IH 35, take the Midway Drive Exit, Exit 297; drive east on Midway Drive 1.4 miles, then south on Hickory Road 1.0 mile to the Lions Park sign. Turn right and drive down the hill past the baseball fields to the picnic area. Permanent residents in the pecan bottoms include the Great Horned Owl, Red-bellied and Downy woodpeckers, Carolina Wren, and Eastern Bluebird. In summer watch for the Great Crested Flycatcher and

Locations of Interest to Naturalists

21

Yellow-crowned Night-Heron. The marsh area should be checked when water is present. Watching for migrants in spring and fall can be very rewarding. There are lots of warblers to see (thirty species have been re­ corded in the county) as well as Empidonax flycatchers, and with good fortune, Peregrine Falcon, Broad-winged Hawk, and Sora. White-breasted Nuthatch has been a recent summer resident. Wintering species include Golden-crowned and Ruby-crowned kinglets, American Kestrel, Red­ tailed and Cooper's hawks, and Ring-billed Gull, along with ten or so sparrow species. c a m p t a h u a y a is on the Lampasas River between Belton and Salado. It is operated by the Boy Scouts of America. From Belton, drive south on IH 35 approximately 5 miles to Exit 289A, then west 1.0 mile to the camp. From Salado, drive north on IF! 35 about 5 miles to Exit 289A. Several trails through open hardwood-juniper woodlands wind between the camping areas. The woodlands along the main trail, which leads to the river, are good for locating Carolina Wren, Brown Creeper, and Redbellied Woodpecker in fall and winter. There is a pond which can be good for finding ducks, including Wood Duck and Green-winged Teal in fall, winter, and spring. Migrants and sparrows are sometimes abundant in the open areas near camp headquarters. P e r m is s io n is r e q u i r e d f o r b i r d i n g . Call (817) 947-5525 for information.

Bexar County Bexar County is at or near the convergence of three very distinct natu­ ral areas. The southern part of the county is the northern extension of the South Texas Plains, or Tamaulipan Plains. West is the Balcones Canyonlands, and east, the southern portion of the Blackland Prairies. Sev­ eral lakes, some described later, are areas of special interest to natural­ ists. As always, the variety of landscapes provides a broad range of available habitats, which means a diverse flora and fauna. s a n a n t o n i o is one of the oldest cities in Texas. The city played a vital role in early Texas history, and there are many historic places open to visitors. The San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department main­ tains 136 parks in the city, ranging in size from less than an acre to over 1,000 acres. Birding locations include the San Antonio River along Mis­ sion Parkway, where one can not only visit the old missions but also follow the road along the river, several stretches of which are wooded. Barred Owls have been recorded regularly where Somerset Road crosses the Medina River. Somerset Road is south of San Antonio about 1 mile east of the intersection of IH 35 South and Loop 410. Green Kingfishers have been found along the Medina River.

22

Wildlife of South Central Texas

d w i g h t d . e i s e n h o w e r p a rk , 317 acres (50 developed), 19399 NW Military Highway (FM 1535), is operated by the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department. From the intersection of IH 10 and Loop 1604, drive 2 miles east on Loop 1604 to FM 1535, then north of FM 1535 2 miles to the park. There are restrooms, group and individual picnicking and camping areas, and 5.89 miles of well-marked trails, some paved for the mobility-impaired. Common birds include Scrub Jay, Chipping Spar­ row, and House Finch. The habitat is typical of the Balcones Canyon­ lands with a variety of Edwards Plateau trees, including oaks and Ashe juniper, as well as shrubs and herbaceous plants. The area appears to be favorable for Golden-cheeked Warblers. b r a c k e n r i d g e p a rk , 343 acres, 500 North St. Mary's, is located north of downtown San Antonio between North St. Mary's and Broadway, ei­ ther of which will lead to the park. It is near the headwaters of the San Antonio River and is operated by the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department. This heavily wooded park has concessions, a golf course, picnicking areas, playgrounds, and the Sunken Gardens. The variety of plant species at the Japanese Tea Gardens attract Black-chinned Hum­ mingbirds in spring and summer and Ruby-throated and Rufous hum­ mingbirds in migration. Broad-tailed and Anna's hummingbirds have also been sighted. s a n a n t o n i o zoo is adjacent to Brackenridge Park. In addition to one of the best displays in Texas of other animals from around the world, the zoo features approximately seven hundred bird species. Of special inter­ est to birders are the F. C. Hixon Tropical Bird House and the African Flight Cage, both of which have free-flying birds in an enclosed aviary. Waterfowl from around the world are on display; with them are freeflying Wood Ducks and Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks in summer and several North American species in winter. A Yellow-crowned NightHeron rookery is located on the zoo grounds. The woodlands in both the park and the zoo can be very good locations during spring and fall migra­ tion. In winter, look for Golden-crowned and Ruby-crowned kinglets, Brown Thrasher, sparrows, and woodpeckers. s o u t h s i d e l i o n s p a rk , 900 Hiawatha, and s o u t h s i d e l i o n s p a r k e a s t , 2800 Roland, 599 acres (275 developed), are operated by the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department. From the intersection of IH 37 and IH 10, drive south on IH 37 about 3 miles to Pecan Valley Drive, then north on Pecan Valley Drive approximately 2 miles to the park. There are playgrounds, picnicking areas, fishing spots, trails, and camping sites. The lake in Southside Lions Park is the wintering home for Pied-billed Grebe, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Green-winged Teal, Northern Shoveler, Lesser Scaup, American Coot, and other waterfowl.

Locations of Interest to Naturalists

23

The undeveloped portion of the park is typical South Texas brush where Curve-billed and Long-billed thrashers, Cactus Wren, and Pyrrhuloxia occur. All these South Texas species are near the northern limit of their range. Many sparrow species spend the winter here, and Salado Creek, which flows through a portion of the park, can be good for spring and fall migrants. w. w. m c a l l i s t e r p a rk , 856 acres, 1 3102 Jones-Maltsberger, is oper­ ated by San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department. From NE Loop 410 at the San Antonio International Airport, drive north on US 281, 3.2 miles to Bitters Road; turn right (east) on Bitters Road to the junction with Starcrest, and continue straight ahead on Starcrest (Bitters Road veers to the right). At Jones-Maltsberger (0.9 mile from US 281), turn left (north) and drive 0.8 mile to the entrance on the right. Facilities offered include a nature trail, hike and bike trail, campsites, playgrounds, rest­ rooms, and picnic areas. Vegetational areas include live oak groves, mesquite grasslands, and prairies. In spring and fall migrating shorebirds can be found at the lake; also look for wintering waterfowl. The lake may be dry during drought years. The woodlands should be checked for winter­ ing passerines. This is a good place for recording wintering sparrows, in­ cluding Fox Sparrow, and is a favorable spring and fall migration location. The park is usually crowded on nice weekends. e m ilie a n d a l b e r t f r i e d r i c h p a rk , 232 acres, 21480 Milsa, is oper­ ated by the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department. The park pre­ serves a portion of the Balcones Canyonlands. To reach the park from the intersection of Loop 410 and IH 10 northwest of the city, go 12 miles on IH 10 to the Camp Bullis Exit; drive west (left) at the underpass, then drive 1 mile north on the west access to the park sign. The park is about o. 5 mile from IH 10. In 1990, twenty-two pairs of Golden-cheeked Warblers and two pairs of Black-capped Vireos nested in the park. Other nesting spe­ cies include Greater Roadrunner, Golden-fronted Woodpecker, Ladderbacked Woodpecker, Ash-throated Flycatcher, Verdin, Bell's Vireo, Yellow-breasted Chat, Rufous-crowned Sparrow, Northern (Bullock's) Oriole, and Lesser Goldfinch. A stop at headquarters to get literature and information on which of the seven trails to hike is recommended. Facili­ ties include restrooms. The park is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Wednesday through Sunday, with no admission after 4:00 PM. j a c k j u d s o n n a t u r e t r a i l , io acres, is located in Alamo Heights. Because of vandalism and other problems, visitors must obtain permis­ sion from the Alamo Heights Police Department, (210) 822-3321, before entering. To reach the area from Austin Highway and Broadway, drive north on Broadway for 3 blocks to Ogden Lane, then west on Ogden, 5 blocks to Greely, and south a block or so to the entrance on the right.

24

Wildlife of South Central Texas

The Alamo Heights Swimming Pool is adjacent to the nature trail acre­ age. This heavily wooded area with thick underbrush is in a floodplain. Nesting species include Yellow-crowned Night-Heron, Chuck-will'swidow, Golden-fronted Woodpecker, Verdin, and House Finch. Wintering species include Brown Creeper, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Solitary Vireo, Rufous-sided Towhee, and Common Grackle. The undergrowth is excel­ lent for wintering sparrows, also. From time to time, the San Antonio Audubon Society, (210) 733-8306, conducts bird walks at this location. jo h n ja m e s p a rk , 89 acres (40 developed), 1300 Rittiman Road, is op­ erated by the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department. Rittiman Road crosses IH 35 approximately 8 miles south of the intersection of Loop 410 and IH 35 northeast. In the park, there are playgrounds, a picnic area, and a nature trail. The trail leads from the mesquite-hackberry up­ lands to Salado Creek. The extensive riparian area along the creek is a favorable location for spring and fall migrants. Many species of seasonal wildflowers can be found along the trail, some in abundance. s a n a n t o n i o b o t a n i c a l c e n t e r , 555 Funston Place, is operated by the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department with guidance from the San Antonio Botanical Society, a nonprofit support group. There are extensive formal gardens, greenhouses, the new Lucile Halsell Conser­ vatory Complex with approximately 0.5 acre under glass, featuring ferns, palms, cycads, western cacti, tropical fruits, and flowering tropicals (well worth a visit by itself), a winding trail with buildings, soils and plantings representing three vegetational areas of Texas (Hill Country, East Texas Pineywoods, and South Texas Plains), and a large gift shop and bookstore. The pond in the middle of the Texas section is a very reliable location in San Antonio for Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks. Also, Verdin and Bell's Vireo are summer residents. There is an entrance fee. m i t c h e l l la k e , 66o surface acres, formerly was a part of the San An­ tonio wastewater treatment process. The lake is located on Moursund Boulevard, 0.6 mile south of the southern portion of Loop 410. Moursund Boulevard is between SH 16 and US 281. The gate may be locked to the general public. Birders can gain entry by calling the San Antonio Audu­ bon Society, (210) 733-8306, a day or two ahead of time. This is the most popular birding spot in Bexar County for wading birds, waterfowl, win­ tering raptors, and shorebirds. Most of the sixteen species of wading birds, thirty geese and ducks, thirty-eight shorebirds, and fifteen gulls and terns on the Bexar County bird checklist have been found here. Rari­ ties recorded at Mitchell Lake include Brown Pelican, Glossy Ibis, Great Kiskadee, Red Knot, Curlew Sandpiper, and Ruff. Nesting rarities include Cinnamon Teal, Groove-billed Ani, Lesser Nighthawk, and American Avocet. Pelagic and coastal species recorded as a result of hurricanes

Locations of Interest to Naturalists

25

from the Gulf of Mexico include Sooty and Royal terns, Black Skimmer, Magnificent Frigatebird, and Parasitic Jaeger. b r a u n i g la k e , 1,350 surface acres, is operated by the City Public Ser­ vice Board of San Antonio to provide cooling water for a power genera­ tion plant. It is located south of the city on IF! 37. Recreational opportuni­ ties include fishing, boating, and picnicking. This is a good spot for gulls, terns, Double-crested and Neotropic cormorants, and Osprey. There is an entrance fee, which is also good for same-day entry to Calaveras Lake. c a l a v e r a s la k e , 3,450 surface acres, is operated by the City Public Service Board of San Antonio. It is located 15 miles southeast of San Antonio with entry from Loop 1604. Many rarities have been recorded here, including California Gull (March 1991), Mew Gull (December 1990-January 1991), Western Grebe, Black-legged Kittiwake, and Pacific and Red-throated loons. Gulf storms have blown in Black Skimmers, Royal Terns, and Magnificent Frigatebirds. Some South Texas species that have been recorded in the brushy areas include Long-billed Thrasher, Black-throated Sparrow, Lesser Nighthawk, Brown-crested Flycatcher, Common Ground-Dove, Cactus Wren, and Bronzed Cowbird. There is an entrance fee, which is also good for same-day entry to Braunig Lake. o l m o s b a s in p a rk , 1,010 acres (617 developed), 800 Olmos Drive East, is operated by the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department and has a golf course, group and general picnic areas, playgrounds, and rest­ rooms. A large part of the park is heavily wooded near the river. The large picnic area on Jones-Maltsberger Road has huge live oaks where migrants occur in spring and fall. The park has been a good location for migrating Mississippi Kites. The park is bisected north to south by the McAllister Freeway and east to west by Basse Road. Most of the development is north of Basse Road.

Blanco County p e d e r n a l e s f a l l s s t a t e p a rk , 4,851 acres, Route i, Box 31A, Johnson City, TX 78636, (210) 868-7304, is located on the Pedernales River about 9 miles east of Johnson City. From Johnson City, drive east on RR 2766, or from Austin, drive west on US 290 for 32 miles. Then go north on RR 3232 for 6 miles. The varied habitats are typical of the eastern Edwards Plateau, or Balcones Canyonlands, varying from the luxuriant baldcypress-lined banks of the Pedernales River, to localized, botanically rich, wet canyons, springs, and seeps, to dry upland grasslands, ce­ dar brakes, live oak mottes, and post oak, mesquite, and Ashe juniperelm woodlands. Most of the park is retained in a natural condition with

26

Wildlife of South Central Texas

development at a minimum. White-tailed deer, rock squirrel, and Wild Turkey are plentiful. The falls, the main attraction of the park, were formed by the fault juxtaposition of rock strata of differing resistance to erosion. The more easily eroded layers lie downstream from the point at which the faults cross the riverbed and are more rapidly removed. The upstream side was left higher, thus creating the falls. A short walk from the parking lot at the north end of the road leads to a scenic overlook above the falls. These limestones belong to the Marble Falls formation of the Pennsylvanian geologic period, and with an age of over 300 million years, they are the oldest rock exposed in the park. In this area, the elevation of the river drops about 50 feet over a distance of 3,000 feet. The park includes more than 6 miles of Pedernales River frontage. The spectacular falls, which give the park its name, are located in the northwestern corner of the park. Continuous erosion of the riverbed has carved a deep, steep-walled canyon. Spring-fed tributaries of the river cre­ ate a scenic and ecologically important microhabitat for a wide variety of uncommon plants and animals. Overall, the park provides a prime example of the vegetation and environments characteristic of the eastern Edwards Plateau. The name Pedernales is Spanish for "flint"; much of the gravel in the river channel is composed of the mineral chert which is popularly called flint. The plunge pool beneath the falls has long been known by local residents to be a favored spawning ground for large catfish. Here, nesting birds include Ash-throated Flycatcher, Painted Bunting, Verdin, Bell's Vireo, Blue Grosbeak, Canyon Wren, Rufous-crowned Spar­ row, Greater Roadrunner, and Scrub Jay. This park is one of only a very few public areas where the Golden-cheeked Warbler, an endangered spe­ cies, is easily found. They are usually heard and seen from mid-March to the end of June along the Pedernales Hill Country Nature Trail, above the overlook at the falls, and along Wolf Mountain Trail. It helps greatly to learn their song. Bushtits are uncommon in the dry uplands. Look for Osprey along the river in spring and autumn. Activities include camping, picnicking, swimming, fishing, and hik­ ing. The 7.5-mile Wolf Mountain Trail leads to the primitive camping area, which is approximately 2.5 miles from the trailhead. Campers must bring in their own water. The quarter-mile Pedernales Hill Country Trail is adjacent to the campground. A guide for the latter is available at headquarters. b l a n c o s t a t e p a rk , n o acres, P.O. Box 493, Blanco, TX 78606, (210) 833-4333, is located on the Blanco River 1 mile south of Blanco or 14 miles south of Johnson City on US 281. Features offered include swimming in

Locations of Interest to Naturalists

27

the Blanco River, camping, and picnicking. Structures include a group facility, restrooms with hot showers, a playground, and a hiking trail. Also, the area is rich in fossils that, of course, may not be collected in the park.

Burleson County (See Lee County) Burnet County in k s l a k e s t a t e p a rk , 1,200 acres, Box 1 1 7, Buchanan Dam, TX 78609, (512) 793-2223, is located on the east shore of Inks Lake on Park Road 4. From Burnet, drive west on SH 29 to Park Road 4. Activities here include camping, picnicking, primitive camping, boating, water skiing, sailing, swimming, fishing, hiking, and golfing. Facilities include a ma­ rina, two fishing piers, a beach (unsupervised), 7.5 miles of hiking trails, and a nine-hole golf course. In addition, there is a concessionaire store for groceries and picnic supplies. Also, motorboats, paddleboats, and canoes can be rented for recreation. With its variety of activities and impressive scenery, the park is one of the most popular Texas parks in summer. Inks Lake, 803 acres, is a constant-level lake surrounded by the formations of the Llano Uplift. Valley Spring Gneiss is the predominant rock type cropping out in the park. Granite Mountain and quarry at Mar­ ble Falls, 15 miles south, furnished material for the Texas State Capitol. Bell's Vireo, Verdin, Orchard Oriole, Painted Bunting, and Goldenfronted Woodpecker nest throughout the park. Winter residents include Common Loon, Horned Grebe, Red-breasted Merganser, and numerous duck species. Bald Eagles are regular winter visitors from nearby Lake Buchanan. Ringed Kingfisher has been recorded. The Federal Fish Hatchery, a short distance south of the park on Park Road 4, is recommended highly for finding wintering ducks as well as numerous land birds in the brushy areas adjacent to the creeks and the Colorado River.

Burnet and Llano Counties l a k e b u c h a n a n , 23,060 acres at operating level, is the largest of the Highland Lakes in surface acres. The dam is just north of SH 29 about 12 miles west of Burnet. Construction of the stair-stepped system of dams forming the Highland Lakes commenced in 1895, when work be­ gan on the Austin Dam. The Highland Lakes provide flood control, electricity generation, mu­ nicipal and agricultural water, and recreation. They are maintained and

28

Wildlife of South Central Texas

managed by the Lower Colorado River Authority. Lake Travis is the flood control unit. Wintering birds on Lake Buchanan include Common Loon, Red­ breasted Merganser, Bald Eagle, Horned Grebe, Forster's Tern and Her­ ring, Ring-billed and Bonaparte's gulls. Look for Greater Roadrunner, Canyon Towhee, Cactus Wren, Verdin, and Black-throated Sparrow in brushy areas around the Lake. The Vanishing Texas River Cruise, RO. Box 901, Burnet, TX 78611, (512) 756-6986, conducts tours on the lake to view wintering Bald Eagles from November to March and scenic cruises year-round. An especially pleasurable drive from Austin through the Highland Lakes area, away from the major highways, is to take RR 2222 west from Austin to RR 620, cross RR 620, to Anderson Mill Road, then take RR 2769 to the community of Volente. From RR 2769, follow Big Sandy Creek Road to RR 1431 and continue northwestward on RR 1431 through Jonestown, Marble Falls, and Kingsland in Llano County to SH 29 just west of Lake Buchanan. Bluebonnets and many other wildflowers are outstanding in the Kingsland area in early April.

Caldwell County l o c k h a r t s t a t e p a rk , 257 acres, Route 3, Box 69, Lockhart, TX 78644, (512) 398-3479, is on Plum Creek southwest of Lockhart. To reach the park, drive i mile south of Lockhart on US 183 to FM 20, then south­ ward on FM 20 2 miles to Park Road 10, and finally, 1 mile south on Park Road 10. There are campsites, a group recreation hall, picnic tables, a group picnic area, restrooms with hot showers, a swimming pool, ninehole golf course, playground, and hiking trail. Nearby is the site of the Battle of Plum Creek where early settlers and Comanche Indians fought in 1840.

Comal County n e w b r a u n f e l s d u m p is a city sanitary landfill operation where Sand­ hill Crane have been wintering for many years. To drive to the dump from New Braunfels, go north on IH 35 four miles to Exit 193, then east on Kohlenburg Road one mile,- turn left on FM 110 1, and drive 1.5 miles to the dump at the top of the hill. Take the county road just right of the dump entrance, where a large pond can be seen on the left. Or from San Marcos, drive 1 1 miles south on IH 35 to Exit 193. The cranes are usually present at this location from October through March, especially at dawn and dusk. During the day, they forage in fields mostly south and east of

Locations of Interest to Naturalists

29

this spot and are usually easily heard and seen flying to and from their feeding and roosting areas. Look for waterfowl on the pond in winter. g u a d a l u p e r i v e r s t a t e p a rk , 1,900 acres, Route 2, Box 2087, Bulverde, TX 78163, (210) 438-2656, is on the Guadalupe River between New Braunfels and Boerne. From New Braunfels, drive west on SH 46 to US 281, then continue on SH 46, 8 miles to Park Road 31, which leads to the park. From Boerne, drive west on SH 46 13 miles to Park Road 31. From downtown San Antonio, drive north on US 281 to SH 46, then west as just described. The Comal-Kendall county line bisects the park south­ west to northeast. Divided more or less east to west by the clear, flowing waters of the Guadalupe River, the ruggedness and scenic beauty of the park is typical of the Texas Hill Country. Pending development, only the area south of the river is open to the public. On its winding path through the park, the river courses over four natu­ ral rapids, and two steep limestone bluffs reflect its awesome erosive power. The huge baldcypress trees along the bank, some snapped off by floods, are ample evidence of this power. There are three major terrestrial plant communities in the park and adjacent Honey Creek State Natural Area: Ashe juniper/Texas oak woodlands, post oak/cedar elm woodlands, and riparian woodlands. Small grasslands and savannahs exist through­ out these community types and provide additional habitats. All habitats are easily accessible by trail. Trees in lower elevations and bottomlands include sycamore, elm, basswood, pecan, walnut, persimmon, willow, and hackberry. In the uplands away from the river, the limestone terrain is typical of the Balcones Canyonlands and has oak and juniper wood­ lands with interspersed grasslands. Birds that nest in the park include Common Poorwill, Scrub Jay, Yellow-throated Vireo, Rufous-crowned Sparrow, and Lesser Goldfinch. Golden-cheeked Warblers have been recorded and may nest here. Four­ teen sparrow species, twenty-four warblers, and one hundred sixty-eight bird species have been found in the park and the natural area. In addition to numerous species of birds, the park supports a wide variety of wild animals including white-tailed deer, coyote, gray fox, skunk, raccoon, opossum, bobcat, and armadillo. Other smaller species abound, and the efforts of wildlife observers are usually well rewarded. Activities include swimming, hiking, picnicking, and camping. There are also playgrounds. In addition, tubing, canoeing, and rafting are popu­ lar on the Guadalupe, but the park does not rent or offer any of the equip­ ment. Inquire at headquarters for location of rental companies nearby. h o n e y c r e e k s t a t e n a t u r a l a r e a , 1,825 acres, is east of and adja­ cent to Guadalupe River State Park. Guided tours to the natural area are

30

Wildlife of South Central Texas

usually scheduled at 9:00 AM on Saturdays. Honey Creek is a pristine stream, fed by a large spring, where nesting species include Acadian Fly­ catcher, Yellow-throated Warbler, Louisiana Waterthrush, Northern Parula, and Green Kingfisher. c y p r e s s b e n d p a r k is maintained and operated by the New Braunfels Parks and Recreation Department. From "The Square" in New Braunfels drive 1 mile east on Common Street to Peach Avenue, then south on Peach Avenue to the entrance. The park has camping facilities. Cypress Bend is on a scenic bend of the Guadalupe River. c a n y o n la k e , 8,240 surface acres, is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers impoundment on the Guadalupe River north of New Braunfels. It pro­ vides flood control along with many recreational activities including boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake is a very popular South Cen­ tral Texas recreational area. From New Braunfels, drive north on either FM 306 or the River Road. The River Road is a county road which follows the meanderings of the Guadalupe River from SH 46 north of New Braunfels to the dam. It is a very scenic drive in all seasons. Both roads lead to the dam where the headquarters for the corps are located. Across the road from headquarters are picnic tables and a path which can be hiked and will lead to the top of the dam. All the species (listed below) for the lake have been recorded in this area. A Pacific Loon was seen from the dam in January 1987. The corps has several parks on both the north and south sides of the lake. The parks offer campsites, picnic tables, restrooms, and boat ramps. Canyon Park, Jacobs Creek Park, and Potters Creek Park are on the north and can be reached from FM 306. Comal Park and Cranes Mill Park are on the south off FM 2673, which dead-ends at FM 306 south of the dam. The parks offer a variety of habitats: woodlands, grasslands, thick under­ brush, beach areas near the shoreline, and the lake itself. Permanent resident birds include Rufous-crowned Sparrow, Bewick's Wren, Scrub Jay, Lesser Goldfinch, Ladder-backed Woodpecker, and House Finch. Species that can be found in summer are Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Scissor-tailed Flycatcher, and Orchard Oriole. Scott's Oriole has summered in the area. In winter look for Pied-billed, Eared, and Horned grebes, Osprey, American Pipit, Double-crested Cormorant, ducks, and sparrows. Occasionally, a Common Raven can be seen with the soaring Turkey and Black vultures. Winter rarities at Comal Park include Pyrrhuloxia and LeConte's Sparrow.

Fayette County M ONUMENT HILL/KREISCHE BREWERY STATE HISTORIC PARKS, Route I, Box 699, La Grange, TX 78945, (409) 968-5658, is located at the southern

Locations of Interest to Naturalists

31

edge of La Grange near the Colorado River. To reach the park from La Grange, drive south on US 77 about 2 miles to Spur 92. The facilities are open every day from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM for day use only. There are picnic areas with fire grills, an exhibit center, and scenic overlooks. Guided tours of the brewery are on weekends at 2:00 and 3:30 PM. Each tour lasts an hour. Most park visitors come to see Monument Hill, the burial site for the remains of Texans who died in the battle of Salado Creek in 1842, and on the ill-fated Mier expedition in 1843; they also come to see the brewery complex where Heinrich L. Kreische conducted his beer business in the late nineteenth century. However, the flora and fauna also deserve the attention of the visiting naturalist. The limestone that forms the resistant cap of the Oakville Escarp­ ment, locally called the La Grange Bluff, yields a soil which, when com­ bined with the topography, supports numerous plant species which are characteristic of the Edwards Plateau some 60 miles northwest. These "displaced" species intermix with the vegetation that predominates on uplands of the La Grange area, the Post Oak Savannah. Little bluestem, Schizachyrium scoparium, is the dominant grass on the grasslands, which has apparently not been overgrazed here. Other plants include big bluestem, Andropogon gerardii (one of the better stands in South Central Texas); yellow Indiangrass, Sorghastrum nutans; inland ceanothus, Ceanothus herbaceus; button snakeroot, Eryngium yuccifolium; rosinweed, Silphium laciniatum; and numerous other grasses and forbs. Typical Edwards Plateau plants include false dayflower, Commelinantia anomala (Tinantia anomala); Lindheimer beargrass, Nolina lindheimeriana; agarito, Berberis trifoliolata (Mahonia trifoliolata); Texas kidneywood, Eysenhardtia texana; fragrant mimosa, Mimosa borealis; mescalbean, Sophora secundiflora; Mexican-buckeye, Ungnadia speciosa; Texas persimmon, Diospyros texana; and elbowbush, Forestiera pubescens. There is a nature trail where the flora and fauna can be observed. p a r k p r a i r i e p a rk , 5 acres, is on the western side of Cedar Creek Res­ ervoir, 2,420 acres, owned by the Lower Colorado River Authority and operated by Fayette County. The lake provides cooling water for a power generation facility. The park can be reached from La Grange by driving northeast on FM 159 about 7 miles to County Road 196, then 0.9 mile southeast on CR 196 to the park. Features include a boat ramp, camp­ sites, picnic areas, a sandy beach, skiing area, and chemical toilets. In the adjoining woodlands, look for the resident land birds of the area. There are usually cormorants present, Neotropic in summer and Double­ crested in winter and both in other seasons. Also look for Ospreys. Ducks are in the coves in fall, winter, and spring.

32

Wildlife of South Central Texas

o a k t h i c k e t p a r k is on the north shore of Cedar Creek Reservoir just south of SH 159 approximately 12.5 miles east of La Grange or 3.4 miles west of Fayetteville. Facilities include a boat ramp, picnic sites, and chemical toilets. There is no potable water. Adjoining the park are 20 acres, to be preserved as natural habitat. The Rice-Osborne Bird and Natural Trail, 5 acres, leads through woods, grasslands, and marsh in the sanctuary. Future plans include labeling vegetation along the trail, estab­ lishing an open-air classroom, and building benches for birders and hik­ ers. The presence of more woodlands, grasslands, and marsh here provide better birding opportunities than at Park Prairie Park. One of the authors has recorded Wood Stork (summer) and Green Kingfisher near this site. The park is open Saturday and Sunday, 5 :oo AM to 5 :oo PM.

Gillespie County l a d y b i r d jo h n s o n p a rk , 190 acres, owned and operated by the City of Fredericksburg, is 3.5 miles south of Fredericksburg on SH 16. Fa­ cilities include campsites with hookups, a golf course, swimming pool, playgrounds, picnic areas, and hiking trails. There is a 17 -acre lake for sailboats, canoes, and pedal boats.

Gonzales County p a l m e t t o s t a t e p a rk , 263 acres, P.O. Box 4, Ottine, TX 78658, (210) 672-3266, is located on the San Marcos River between Luling and Gon­ zales. From Gonzales, drive northwest 13 miles on US 183 to FM 1586, then west on FM 1586 2 miles to Ottine, and south on Park Road 1 1 to the entrance. From Luling, drive southeast 6 miles on US 183, then southeast on Park Road 1 1 for 3 miles. The park is located in the Post Oak Savannah vegetational area. Sev­ eral plant communities occur in this small park including hardwood bot­ tomlands along the San Marcos River, wet grasslands with occasional palmetto-filled swales, an oxbow lake, and several lagoons fed by an arte­ sian well. The swamp area, formerly known as the Ottine Swamp, fea­ tures a botanical garden seemingly lifted from the tropics. The unique variety of plants and animal life has attracted many naturalists, profes­ sional and amateur. In the park are seven species of oak. Over eighty species of amphibians and reptiles, nearly 100 butterflies, and 276 birds have been reported in the Palmetto area. Park Road 1 1 from US 183 to the park has a spectacular overlook of the San Marcos River Valley, wooded uplands, heavily wooded lowlands, and cultural areas where a wide diversity of plants and birds can be en­ countered. In winter, look for American Woodcock amid leaf litter be­

Locations of Interest to Naturalists

33

neath trees on the south side of the road at the bottom of this hill. The River Trail along the San Marcos River, the Palmetto Trail through the swamps near the old water tower, and the trail around the oxbow lake offer particularly rewarding birding opportunities. Trail guides are avail­ able at headquarters. Resident birds include Pileated and Downy woodpeckers, Red­ shouldered Hawk, Crested Caracara, Eastern Bluebird, Eastern ScreechOwl, and Great Horned and Barred owls. Indigo and Painted buntings are summer residents. Brown Thrasher, Rufous-sided Towhee, and Purple Finch spend the winter. Where water is present in the swamps, look for Winter Wren in winter and Kentucky, Hooded, and Prothonotary war­ blers in spring. Northern Parula are usually easy to find in spring and summer near the recreation building. Hairy Woodpecker, Green King­ fisher, and American Woodcock have been found on recent Christmas Counts. A rare Christmas Count sighting was a Cape May Warbler. With­ out too much effort, a dozen species of sparrows including Fox, Whitethroated, White-crowned, and Lincoln's sparrows can be found from De­ cember through February. This is an excellent area for birding during both the spring and fall migrations. Facilities offered include campsites, picnic areas, a group recreation building, restrooms with showers, fishing piers, and playgrounds.

Guadalupe County 190 acres, is located at the south edge of Seguin on both sides of SH 123 Business adjacent to the Guada­ lupe River. Facilities include an eighteen-hole golf course, swimming pool, picnicking sites, and playgrounds. A winding drive along the river among tall oaks and pecan trees and the brushy areas near the riverbank offer the best birding opportunities. g o v e r n o r I r e l a n d p a r k is maintained and operated by the Guada­ lupe-Bianco River Authority. To reach the park from Seguin, drive west on US 90A about 0.5 mile from the intersection with SH 46; then drive south on Lake View 1 mile to the park. Lake Placid, a reservoir on the Guadalupe River, adjoins the park. Extensive riparian woodlands, marsh­ lands, the river below, and the lake above the dam provide a variety of habitats. Campsites are provided. The park is named for John Ireland, Texas governor from 1883 to 1887. m a x s t a r k e a n d r i v e r s i d e p a rk ,

Hays County c i t y p a rk , maintained and operated by the San Marcos Parks and Rec­ reation Department, is located on C. M. Allen Parkway between Univer­

34

Wildlife of South Central Texas

sity Drive (Loop 82) and Hopkins Street (RR12) in downtown San Marcos. The San Marcos River bisects the park, which extends downstream from Spring Lake, the river's headwaters. Activities include camping, picnick­ ing, and swimming; playgrounds and restrooms are provided. The park offers ready access to the fast-flowing, clear waters of the San Marcos River, one of the most scenic places in South Central Texas. The upper reaches of the river, including Spring Lake, are home to rare and endan­ gered salamanders, fish, an endangered freshwater shrimp, and Texas wildrice, Zizania texana, an endangered plant. To observe wildlife, the best time to visit this busy park is very early in the morning before the crowds arrive. w im b e r le y , a small community on RR 1 2 about 1 5 miles northwest of San Marcos, has become a mecca for visitors seeking crafts and an­ tiques on weekends. Located in a beautiful portion of the Hill Country on Cypress Creek, it also is a favorable birding locality. One location is the old bridge just east of RR 1 2 where the road crosses the Blanco River about 1 mile south of town. Park at either the north or south end of the old road leading to the bridge. The river can be searched from the old bridge for Summer Tanager, Yellow-throated and Red-eyed vireos in sum­ mer, Green Kingfisher, and spring and fall migrants. North of the town, the riparian area along Cypress Creek can be good for the same species as well as land birds in the tall trees adjoining the creek. Scarlet Tanager in migration and a wandering Groove-billed Ani have been found along the creek. On at least two occasions in the past, Green Violet-Ear, a large Mexican hummingbird, has visited the Wimberley area.

Kendall County b o e r n e c i t y l a k e is reached by driving north from Boerne on IH 10 to Exit 573 (Boerne, US 87 N Business). From Exit 573, drive northwest on the west access road approximately 0.8 mile to Boerne City Lake Road. The lake was formed for flood control and to provide water for the City of Boerne. Along the entrance road, watch for resident land birds and wintering sparrows. Many waterfowl are found on the lake in winter and during spring and fall migration. A walk along the creek is also ex­ cellent for locating land birds including Lesser Goldfinch. Birds recorded in a couple of hours in November include Pied-billed Grebe, Double­ crested Cormorant, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Redhead, Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead, Ruddy Duck, dozens of American Coots, and a Solitary Vireo in the live oaks. There are no facilities at the lake. c i t y p a rk , 150 acres, owned and maintained by the City of Boerne, is at the eastern edge of the city adjacent to and south of SH 46 on Cibolo

Locations of Interest to Naturalists

35

Creek. The north portion of the park has soccer and baseball fields, a swimming pool, an agricultural museum, picnic areas, and restrooms, with the south 70-plus acres set aside as the Cibolo Wilderness Trail whose purpose is "to preserve a section of land that will remain unde­ veloped and in its natural state so that people from the community and abroad can sample the natural country wildlife habitat/' There is a marsh with boardwalk, grasslands, and huge baldcypress trees along the creek and upland woodlands. Resident birds include Red-shouldered Hawk, Golden-fronted and Ladder-backed woodpeckers, Eastern Phoebe, Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, Carolina Wren, and House Finch. Purple Finch has been recorded in winter along with numerous sparrows. On a fall visit, one of the authors recorded thirty-two bird species in an hour or so including Common Snipe, Song and Lincoln's sparrows at the marsh, and Golden-fronted Woodpecker, Yellow-breasted Sapsucker, Northern Flicker, Eastern Phoebe, Winter Wren, Golden-crowned King­ let, Hermit Thrush, and Rufous-sided Towhee on the trail which follows the creek. A Birder’s Checklist of the Boerne Area is available from the Boerne Chamber of Commerce, 1209 South Main St., # 1, Boerne, TX 78006, (210) 249-9373. o l d t u n n e l w i l d l i f e m a n a g e m e n t a r e a , 5 -plus acres, is operated by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. At the present time limited tours are conducted daily when bats are present; a more comprehensive tour starts one hour before sunset. A Texas Conservation Passport is re­ quired for the comprehensive tour. Call park headquarters (512) 389-4800 or (210) 896-2500 for current entry policy. To reach the site, drive east from Comfort on RR 473 approximately 4.5 miles to a road known lo­ cally as Old No. 9, then north about 9 miles. There is no road sign indi­ cating Old No. 9, but the turn is where RR 473 turns sharply to the right. The area is best known for its railroad history and the large number of bats that summer in the tunnel. Most are Brazilian free-tailed bats; how­ ever, cave myotis have been recorded, and continuing research w ill likely find additional species. The bats arrive in late April and fly south in late October. Adjacent to the park site is a canyon with thermals which favor soaring hawks including Golden Eagle in winter. Other hawks recorded are Red-tailed, Red-shouldered, and Cooper's, which not only like the thermals but find ample feeding opportunities as the bats leave and enter the tunnel.

Lee and Burleson Counties contains 5,200 acres in three units along the western side of Lake Somerville. Birch Creek Unit, 640 acres, la k e s o m e r v ille

sta te

p a rk

36

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Route i, Box 499, Somerville, TX 77^79, (409) 535-7763, is on the north side of the lake,- Nails Creek Unit, 300 acres, Route 1, Box 61C, Led­ better, TX 78946, (409) 289-2392, on the south side; and the Trailway's Unit, 4,260 acres, connects the units around the western end of the lake. To reach the Birch Creek Unit, drive west from Lyons on FM 60 about 12 miles west to Park Road 57, which leads to the entrance. For the Nails Creek Unit, drive east on US 290 from Giddings about 7 miles to FM 180, then north 15 miles to the park. The park is within the Post Oak Savannah vegetation area of eastcentral Texas. Numerous habitats occur within the park. Aquatic, wet­ land, and/or floodplain habitats include (1) open water; (2) shallow marshy flats; (3) mudflats during low-water periods; (4) saline grassy flats; (5) riparian woodlands along the creeks; and (6) an extensive cleared pastureland on the floodplain. Upland habitats in the park include (1) oakhickory woodlands; (2) little bluestem dominated grasslands; and (3) yaupon thickets. Nesting birds are more or less the common species of the area; how­ ever, spring and fall migrants and winter residents bring the bird list for the lake to 270 species. Migrants include seven vireo species, eighteen hawks, twenty-eight shorebirds, and twenty-eight warblers. Winter spe­ cies include a large population of American White Pelican and Double­ crested Cormorant, seventeen sparrow species along with twenty-seven species of waterfowl. Neotropic Cormorant and Bald Eagle are often pres­ ent as well. Late summer is the prime time for large numbers of herons and egrets with eleven species recorded, along with Roseate Spoonbill, Wood Stork, and Anhinga. Activities include camping, picnicking, swimming (no lifeguard), fish­ ing, and boating. There are also playgrounds and hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding trails. l a k e s o m e r v i l l e , 11,460 surface acres, is a U.S. Army Corps of Engi­ neers impoundment on Yegua Creek, a major tributary of the Brazos River. In addition to the state parks just discussed, the corps has several parks on the lake as well. Big Creek, Overlook, Rocky Creek, and Yegua Creek are open all year, offering campsites, boat ramps, picnic areas, and sanitary facilities. In general, these parks are highly developed; however, some good birding opportunities are available along the fringes.

Llano County ENCHANTED ROCK STATE NATURAL AREA, 1,643 acres, is located 18 miles north from Fredericksburg on RR 965 or 22 miles south from Llano via SH 16 for 14 miles,- then west on RR 965 for 8 miles. The

Locations of Interest to Naturalists

37

extreme southern section of the park is in Gillespie County. Facilities include about 6 miles of trails for hiking and backpacking, an area for tent camping, restrooms with showers, primitive campsites (no water or facilities), picnic tables, and a group picnic area. There are programs for nature study. The natural area is a mecca for rock climbers, with climbs varying from easy to very difficult. The different climbs are described in detail in a guidebook which is available at park headquarters. Enchanted Rock proper is a well-known geological feature of the Llano Uplift area. The pink granite has an estimated age of over one bil­ lion years and is among the oldest exposed rocks in North America. It is but one small exposed part of a ioo-square-mile batholith. The dome occupies approximately 70 acres and rises 425 feet above the bed of Sandy Creek 0.6 mile below. The four major plant communities of Enchanted Rock are open oak woodland, mesquite grassland, floodplain, and granite rock community. Rare plants which occur here are the basin bellflower, Campanula reverchonii, and rock quillwort, Isoetes lithophylla, both endemic to the Llano Uplift, and a tropical fern, Blechnum occidentale, not found else­ where in Texas. White-tailed deer, black-tailed jackrabbits, cottontail rabbits, eastern fox and rock squirrels, armadillos, skunks, lizards, and snakes typical of the Balcones Canyonlands occur here. Common permanent resident birds include Wild Turkey, Northern Bobwhite, Golden-fronted and Ladder-backed woodpeckers, Eastern Phoebe, and Lark Sparrow. Less common are Inca Dove, Greater Roadrunner, Belted Kingfisher, Scrub fay, Common Raven, Verdin, Bushtit, Canyon Wren, and Black-throated Sparrow. Nesting species in addition to the above are Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Common Poorwill, Vermilion and Scissor-tailed flycatchers, Rock Wren, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Bell's Vireo, Summer Tanager, Painted Bunting, Orchard Oriole, and Lesser Goldfinch. Fifteen sparrow species winter in the park. Natural history books and other information of interest can be pur­ chased at park headquarters. Trail guides, bird checklist, and other ma­ terials are available at no charge. The address for park headquarters is Route 4, Box 170, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, (915) 247-3903. b l a c k r o c k p a rk , io acres, is maintained and operated by the Lower Colorado River Authority. The park can be reached by driving 16 miles east of Llano or 14 miles west of Burnet on SH 29 to SFI 261; then go north for 3 miles. Facilities include campsites, a dump station, a play­ ground, restrooms, picnic areas, and a boat ramp. The park is on the west shore of Lake Buchanan, the highest in the chain of Highland Lakes on the Colorado River. s h a w i s l a n d p a rk , 4 acres on the west side of Lake Buchanan, is

38

Wildlife of South Central Texas

maintained and operated by the Lower Colorado River Authority. From the intersection of SH 29 and SH 261, drive north 8.4 miles, then right (east) on CR 225 about 5 miles to the park. The park has picnic sites and restrooms. County Road 225 is an excellent road for viewing birds in all seasons. A variety of habitats—wooded areas, grassy fields, and several arms of Lake Buchanan—can be seen from the road. c e d a r p o i n t r e s o u r c e a r e a , 400 acres on the west side of Lake Bu­ chanan, is owned and operated by the Lower Colorado River Authority. The area is about 0.5 mile north of Tow on RR 3014. Plans are to have the area preserved in a natural state with a minimum of improvements. The area is predominately woodlands. In winter, look for Bald Eagles perched around and flying over the lake.

Milam County a l c o a la k e , 880 acres, owned and operated by the Aluminum Com­ pany of America to provide cooling water for power generation, is located 7 miles southwest of Rockdale. From Rockdale, drive west on US 79 5.6 miles to FM 1786, then south approximately 5 miles. The lake is at the end of FM 1786. To reach the northeast side, drive south from Rockdale on FM 487 about 3 miles; then go west on FM 2 116 to the lake. Double­ crested Cormorant, Pied-billed Grebe, Northern Pintail, Ring-necked Duck, American Coot, Gadwall, Bufflehead, Lesser Scaup, and American Wigeon all winter on this lake, most of which can be viewed from the highways. In migration, look for Blue-winged Teal, American White Peli­ can, and Common Goldeneye. Land birds can also be found on FM 1786 as well as numerous sandy land wildflowers. The Oklahoma Plum, Prunus gracilis, is common on this road. A very favorable birding road in Milam County is County Road 421. From Thorndale, drive north on FM 486 to San Gabriel. County Road 421 is the road west from San Gabriel. The road parallels the San Gabriel River with riparian woodlands south of the road and farmlands north. The woodlands are excellent for resident and migrating land birds. White-breasted Nuthatch has been recorded along this road.

Travis County A u s t i n is bisected by the Balcones Escarpment from north to south and by the Colorado River from northwest to southeast and offers a wide variety of habitats to the naturalist. The Austin Parks and Recreation Department oversees over 160 parks with more than 11,800 a exes, In­ cluded are eight metropolitan parks, ten nature preserves, and twenty-

Locations of Interest to Naturalists

39

one greenbelts adjacent to about that many creeks. Many eastern and western species are near or at the periphery of their range in the city. In addition, the city is an excellent area for spring migration, which peaks between mid-April and mid-May. As many as twenty warbler species have been recorded at one time as well as Philadelphia and Warbling vireos, Swainson's and Gray-cheeked thrushes, Summer and Scarlet tanagers, Northern (Baltimore and Bullock's) orioles, and Rose-breasted Grosbeak. Spring warbler migration, March to May, offers the highest concentrations of individuals; however, fall migration, August to Octo­ ber, can be rewarding as well, even though the birds do not move in large flocks as sometimes happens in a spring "fall-out." Any of the numerous wooded creeks in the city are good places to be during migration. The Shoal Creek Hike and Bike Trail, Northwest Park, and the Town Lake Hike and Bike Trail are rewarding birding areas. Wal­ ler Creek has the Elizabet Ney Museum, Eastwoods Park, and Waterloo Park. Blunn Creek Wilderness Area between St. Edwards Drive and Oltorf Street, Stacy Park between Live Oak Street and Riverside Drive on Blunn Creek, and the Rosewood-Zaragosa Greenbelt on Boggy Creek are other favorable spots. The grounds of the Laguna Gloria Art Museum and Mayfield Park at the west end of 35 th Street and the capitol grounds at the intersection of Congress Avenue and n th Street are particularly good during migration. z i l k e r p a rk , 365 acres, is operated by the Austin Parks and Recreation Department and is highly developed but still offers a variety of habitats along Barton Creek and Town Lake. From downtown Austin, drive south on Congress Avenue, turn right (west) on Barton Springs Road, the first street south of the Colorado River, which leads to the park. The central feature of the park is the spring-fed Barton Springs Swimming Pool. Other facilities include the Austin Garden Center, playgrounds, soccer fields, picnic areas, and the Austin Nature Center with a small zoo and an outdoor theatre. The greenbelt, which follows Barton Creek from just above the swimming pool to well past Loop 360, is good in all seasons for seeking Canyon Wren, rock squirrel, and other Edwards Plateau spe­ cies. Every spring and summer, there is a very large colony of Cliff Swal­ low under the MoPac (Loop 1) highway bridge over Town Lake at Strat­ ford Drive. Where Barton Creek flows into Town Lake is always good for finding wintering waterfowl. Near the soccer fields, thirteen-lined ground squirrels are always present. h o r n s b y b e n d w a s t e w a t e r t r e a t m e n t p l a n t is maintained by the City of Austin for sewage treatment. The plant is located on FM 973, east of Austin. Drive east on Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard (becomes FM 969), about 8 miles to FM 973; turn right (south) and go 3.3 miles to

40

Wildlife of South Central Texas

the entrance. The plant can also be reached from SH 71 by driving north on FM 973 about 1 mile. FM 973 crosses SH 71 about 2 miles east of the intersection of SH 71 and US 183. For years this location has been the most popular birding location in the Austin area. Entry regulations are subject to change. At the time of writing, birders are welcome during daylight hours. First-time visitors should check at the office for current policy. Southbound shorebird mi­ gration starts the first week of July, tapering off about the end of October; northbound begins in March and lasts until mid-June. It is not unusual to record ten to fifteen shorebird species in an hour or so during migra­ tion. Water levels and food supply for birds are variable from year to year, but most years there are favorable conditions. Ducks and other waterfowl are usually abundant in autumn, winter, and spring. In summer, Black­ necked Stilt, Wood Duck, and Black-bellied Whistling-Duck with young are occasionally seen. The ponds are adjacent to the Colorado River, with extensive riparian woodlands that are frequented in all seasons by a wide variety of passerine birds. Many accidentals and other rarities have been recorded including Glaucous and Sabine's gulls, Ruff, Curlew Sandpiper, Northern Jacana, Glossy and White ibises, and Roseate Spoonbill. LAKE WALTER E. LONG METROPOLITAN PARK, 3 ,8 0 0 acres, at 6 6 1 4 Blue Bluff Road, is located at the eastern limit of the city. From Austin, drive east on either US 290 or FM 969. From US 290, drive south on FM 3177 (Decker Lane), then east on Decker Lake Road south of the power plant to the entrance. From FM 969, drive north on FM 3177 to Decker Lake Drive. The 1,269-acre lake provides cooling water for a municipal power plant. Woodlands and grasslands surrounding the lake attract and support a variety of wildlife. Post oak-live oak forests alternate with invaded croplands, marshes, and small impoundments along the lake shore. The drive around the perimeter of the park on Decker Lane (FM 3177), Lindell Road, Blue Bluff Road, Bloor Road, FM 973, and Loyola Drive is excel­ lent for seeing wintering Red-tailed Hawk as well as Vesper, Whitecrowned, Lincoln's, White-throated, Grasshopper, and Harris' sparrows. Great Horned Owl can be heard from the road at night starting in Janu­ ary. The wooded sections along the drive and in the park are best during migrations. Former farm ponds, visible from the roads, are good for win­ tering waterfowl. Birds recorded, mostly in migration, in the marshes below the dam include Swamp Sparrow, Sora, Virginia Rail, Common Yellowthroat, and Marsh Wren. Flying over the water during migration are American White Pelican, Franklin's Gull, and Black Tern. Nesting species include Pied-billed Grebe, Orchard and Northern (Bullock's) orioles, Ladder-backed Woodpecker, Eastern Bluebird, and occasionally Least Bittern and Blue Grosbeak. Crested Caracara (all seasons), Double­

Locations of Interest to Naturalists

41

crested Cormorant, and Common Snipe (winter) are frequently found. A family of bobcats has been observed on at least two occasions here. Hiking, picnicking, fishing, and boating are permitted. There are rest­ rooms available. An entrance fee is charged. t o w n l a k e m e t r o p o l i t a n p a rk , 534 acres, is approximately 7 miles long and is located on the Colorado River in downtown Austin. The lake provides cooling water for power plants. There are marshy areas, grass­ lands, and woodlands. Waterfowl are present in large numbers in winter all along the lake from Red Bud Isle near Tom Miller Dam to Longhorn Dam on Pleasant Valley Road. Where Barton, Shoal, and Waller creeks enter the lake and near the Holly Street Power Plant are locations usually favorable for birding. Wood Duck nest between Barton Creek and Tom Miller Dam. Red Bud Isle near Tom Miller Dam can be a productive spot for locating migrants. In spring and summer, Yellow-crowned NightHeron are always present. Monk Parakeet are well established at the ball fields behind the Austin Parks and Recreation Department offices near Lamar Boulevard. The extensive hike and bike trails, which are adjacent to most of the shoreline, are also excellent places to view the birds on the lake. Rare winter visitors include Common Loon, White-winged Scoter, and Oldsquaw. Ringed Kingfisher has been recorded nearly every other year in the recent past. em m a l o n g m e t r o p o l i t a n p a rk , or City Park, 1,147 acres, main­ tained and operated by the Austin Parks and Recreation Department, is located on Lake Austin 6 miles west of Austin on RR 2222. The entrance is at the end of City Park Road, which is off RR 2222 a short distance north of Loop 360. Lake Austin is the original impoundment on the Colorado River and is now part of the Highland Lakes chain upstream along with Town Lake downstream in downtown Austin. The original Austin Dam, as it was then called, was completed in 1900, and at the time, it was the largest masonry structure of its kind in the world; the reservoir it impounded was called Lake McDonald, which became the scene of international regattas and much public attention. But in the year of its completion, the Austin Dam collapsed during a flood, resulting in deaths and considerable property loss. Portions of the dam can still be seen at Red Bud Isle in Austin. In the intervening years, the dam was repeatedly rebuilt and subsequently destroyed until the present facility, Tom Miller Dam, was completed in 1935. At Emma Long Metropolitan Park, camping and picnicking sites, a group facility, restrooms, an en­ closed swimming area, lighted fishing piers, and two boat ramps are pro­ vided. This large municipal park is heavily wooded except along the wa­ terfront, where recreational facilities are maintained. Golden-cheeked Warblers nest along Turkey Creek, the only stream on City Park Road.

42

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Look for waterfowl on the lake and sparrows in the uplands in winter. There are entrance and camping fees. m a r y q u i n l a n p a rk , 58 acres, and s e lm a h u g h e s p a r k , 5 acres, are on Lake Austin at the end of Quinlan Park Road, which is south of RR 620 and about 2 miles east of Mansfield Dam. Most resident land birds can be found at one or both of these parks. Wild Turkey can some­ times be found in early morning and at dusk. In spring, listen for Com­ mon Poorwill and Chuck-will's-widow at night throughout the Highland Lakes area. Picnic areas and restrooms are at both parks, with a boat ramp at Mary Quinlan Park. w i l d b a s in p r e s e r v e , 227 acres, 1515 South Capital of Texas Highway (Loop 360), P.O. Box 13455, Austin, TX 78711, (512) 327-7622, is owned by Travis County but managed and operated by the Committee for Wild Basin Wilderness, Inc. The entrance is on Loop 360 1.5 miles north of Bee Caves Road (RR 2244) or 3.2 miles south of the bridge on Lake Austin. There are hiking trails and an interpretive center where educational programs are offered for school children, teachers, volunteers, and the general public interested in learning about the natural history of the Hill Country. One of the objectives is to keep the 227 acres in as undisturbed a state as possible; the programs offered are consistent with this objec­ tive. Regular programs include stargazing, bird walks, the Wild Basin walk (an overview of the preserve), moonlight walks, nature sketching, and education on native plants. Permanent resident bird species include Ladder-backed Woodpecker, Eastern Meadowlark, Bewick's and Carolina wrens, Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, Scrub and Blue jays, and Rufous-crowned, Field, and Chipping sparrows. In addition to the above, Golden-cheeked Warbler, Black-capped and White-eyed vireos, Painted Bunting, Great Crested Fly­ catcher, and Common Nighthawk can be found in the preserve in sum­ mer. In winter, be on the watch for Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Dark-eyed Junco, and American Goldfinch. m c k in n e y f a l l s s t a t e p a rk , 726 acres, 7102 Scenic Loop, Austin, TX 78744, (512) 234-1643, is between IH 35 and US 183 at the south edge of Austin. It can be reached by driving east on William Cannon Drive to Scenic Loop, or from US 183 by driving west on Scenic Loop. The park is located in a transition area between the Edwards Plateau to the west and the Blackland Prairie to the east; however, the park land­ scape is mostly characteristic of the Edwards Plateau. Local physiogra­ phy has evolved largely as the result of volcanic activity at Pilot Knob, just east of the park, during the Late Cretaceous Period, as well as iiom the subsequent erosional and depositional events associated with Onion and Williamson creeks and their ancient counterparts.

Locations of Interest to Naturalists

43

The park bird checklist lists 224 species that have been recorded. Most of the bird habitats of the park can be visited by walking the 3.8 mile hike and bike trail. As the trail goes south from Smith Visitor Center, it wanders through riparian woodlands along Onion Creek, an area where Red-bellied Woodpecker, Eastern Phoebe, Carolina Chicka­ dee, Tufted Titmouse, and Carolina Wren are found year-round. In win­ ter, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Brown Creeper, Brown Thrasher, Hermit Thrush, Golden-crowned and Ruby-crowned kinglets, Cedar Waxwing, Solitary Vireo, Yellow-rumped Warbler, and Harris7, Lincoln, and Whitethroated sparrows are commonly found in this riparian area. Nearly ev­ ery winter, American Woodcock and Winter Wren are found where the trail nears the southern park boundary, before the trail climbs the bluff. During spring migration, many passerines can be found along this sec­ tion of the trail. This dense riparian area is an excellent location for vo­ calizing Empidonax flycatchers flying north in May and often in August moving south. Above the bluff, the hike and bike trail winds through woodlands and mesquite-invaded fields, areas where Yellow-billed Cuckoo and Painted and Indigo buntings are common summer residents. In winter, many spe­ cies of sparrows are often abundant in these upland areas. Greater Roadrunner are permanent residents in the open areas along this part of the trail and in the campgrounds. Eastern Screech-Owl and Blue Jay nest in the large campground trees. Canyon Wren are permanent residents along Onion Creek, north of the Smith Visitor Center. Wood Duck are found on Onion Creek, and in win­ ter, other waterfowl are sometimes present. During spring and fall migra­ tion, wading birds and shorebirds often frequent the marshy areas at the confluence of Williamson and Onion creeks above McKinney Falls. This area also seems to attract the unexpected wanderers—an immature Red­ dish Egret and a Groove-billed Ani have been recorded at this spot. The low hills approximately 1.7 miles southeast of the park are the remains of Pilot Knob, an extinct volcano which erupted approximately 80 million years ago when the area was covered by a shallow sea. The rock formations at Upper and Lower (McKinney) Falls in the park consist of limestones deposited on ancient beaches surrounding the former vol­ canic island. Pilot Knob is one of nine such eruptions in southern Travis County. The Smith Visitor Center has exhibits (including the story of Pilot Knob), slide shows, and interpretive information,- other park features are campgrounds with hookups, restrooms with hot showers, picnic areas and a group section with shelters and dining room. p a c e b e n d p a rk , 1,520 acres, owned by Lower Colorado River Au­ thority and operated by Travis County, is located on a peninsula of Lake

44

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Travis at the eastern end of RR 2322. RR 2322 is in northwest Travis County off SH 71 just south of the Pedernales River. The park is mostly an undeveloped wooded upland with camping and picnicking areas and restrooms adjacent to the lake. Gentle slopes on the eastern side provide broad areas for swimming and boating activities. With over 9 miles of lakefront, Pace Bend is a popular and attractive recreation area. The center of the park, approximately 1 mile wide by 2 miles long, serves as a natural wildlife preserve where no vehicular access is permit­ ted. There is abundant cover for white-tailed deer, raccoon, opossum, eastern cottontail and black-tailed jackrabbit. The limestone cliffs along its western edge are the best areas for Canyon Wren calling in spring and summer. Other Edwards Plateau bird species which have been recorded include Golden-fronted Woodpecker, Ash-throated Flycatcher, Scrub Jay, Verdin, Cactus Wren, Bell's Vireo, Canyon Towhee, Lesser Goldfinch, and Rufous-crowned and Black-throated sparrows. Facilities provided include picnicking areas, campsites, with and without hookups, boat launch ramps, and restrooms. There is an en­ trance fee. m a n s f i e l d d a m p a rk , 65 acres, is owned by the Lower Colorado River Authority and operated by Travis County. The park is just west of Mans­ field Dam on RR 620, 6 miles west of RR 2222. Camping and picnicking sites, restrooms, and a boat ramp are provided. There is an entrance and camping fee. w e b b e r v i l l e p a rk , 1 3 5 acres, is operated by the Travis County Parks Department and is located on the Colorado River about 4 miles east of the community of Webberville on FM 969, near the Bastrop county line. Facilities provided are restrooms, playgrounds, picnicking areas, and a boat ramp. With numerous large pecan trees as well as a woody section along the river, birds which are usually present are Red-shouldered Hawk, Eastern Bluebird, and Red-bellied and Downy woodpeckers as well as most permanent resident perching birds. Summer residents in­ clude Eastern Kingbird and Red-eyed and Yellow-throated vireos. Ducks, osprey, herons, and egrets are sometimes found along the river. Rarities recorded include Groove-billed Ani and Yellow-green Vireo. This is a very good spring and fall migration location. H a m i l t o n p o o l p a rk , 232 acres, operated by the Travis County Parks Department is in northwest Travis County. From Austin, drive north on SH 71 past the village of Bee Caves to RM 3238, then about 13 miles to the park. The park offers swimming, hiking, nature study, and picnick­ ing. There are restrooms available. Currently, the park is being preserved and restored to a natural condition—with park activities compatible with this goal. Most visitors are attracted to the natural swimming pool

Locations of Interest to Naturalists

45

formed when the dome of an underground river collapsed thousands of years ago. The Pedernales River forms the western boundary of the park. The pool itself is below a 65-foot waterfall on Hamilton Creek and is surrounded by a unique grotto. A variety of plants and animals are found in the grotto and along the creek between the pool and the river. Summer residents include Acadian Flycatcher, Cliff Swallows, Yellow-throated, Red-eyed, and White-eyed vireos, Summer Tanager, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Ash-throated Flycatcher, and Blue Grosbeak. Scrub Jay and Canyon Wren can be found in all seasons. There is an entrance fee. Call (512) 264-2740 for current information on hours of operation, swimming regulations, and other information.

Williamson County g r a n g e r la k e , 4,400 acres, a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers impound­ ment on the San Gabriel River, is located about 4 miles east of SH 95 between Taylor and Granger. From SH 95, drive east on FM 971 to reach Friendship Park on the north shore, or take FM 1331 to reach Taylor and/ or Wilson H. Fox parks on the south shore. Take County Road 346 east from SH 95 to reach Willis Creek Park. In addition to the parks, there are four wildlife management areas where hunting is allowed in season. Hik­ ing along the San Gabriel River and/or Willis Creek in the wildlife man­ agement areas will usually be very productive for recording land birds. Facilities are available for boat launching, picnicking, swimming, camp­ ing, and fishing. Birding is best in fall, winter, and spring when Double-crested Cor­ morants in large numbers, American White Pelicans in good numbers, Ring-billed Gulls, Forster's Terns, Ospreys, and several waterfowl species are present. Hawks seem to prefer the Pecan Grove Wildlife Management Area below the dam in winter where Red-tailed, Ferruginous and Rough­ legged hawks and Northern Harrier are often present. Bald Eagle and Harris' Hawk are rare visitors. One winter a Little Gull was recorded flying over the lake near the dam. The brushy areas in the Texas Parks and Wildlife management areas are excellent for wintering sparrows, with sixteen species found. Nesting birds include Wood Duck, Eastern Screech-Owl, and Barn, Great Horned and Barred owls. Horned Lark, Mountain Plover, and Chestnut-collared, McCown's, and Lapland longspurs can sometimes be found in winter in the fields west of the lake, both east and west of SH 95. l a k e G e o r g e t o w n , 1,310 surface acres, a U.S. Army Corps of Engi­ neers lake, is on the North San Gabriel River west of Georgetown. To reach the lake, drive west of Georgetown 3.5 miles on FM 2338, then

46

Wildlife of South Central Texas

south to the dam. In March, April, and May, Golden-cheeked Warblers nest in Cedar Breaks Park and can usually be heard and seen from the Good Water Trail. The trail winds through 16 miles of the Texas country­ side and features lakeside recreation and camping. A hiking guide is available at headquarters. Rock Wren have nested in the riprap below the dam. To reach this area from Georgetown, drive west on FM 2338 1.3 miles, then south on Bootys Road to the dam. County Road 258 at the extreme western end of the lake is an excellent birding road in winter. There are three developed parks along the shoreline offering boat ramps and featuring camping, picnicking, swimming, and fishing.

Maps

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4. B astrop County

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5. Bell County

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6. B e x a r County

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10. Caldw ell County

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Guadalupe State

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Natural Area

PR 31

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0

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12. Canyon Lake

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17. Hays County

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18. San Marcos

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19. Kendall County

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2 0 . Lee a n d Burleson Counties

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Lake S om erville State P a rk Units Road

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2 4 . Travis County

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2 6 . W illiam son County

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2 7 . G r a n g e r Lake

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THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

CH APTER 3

Birds E D W A R D A . KUTAC

THE BIRD LIST which follows has 445 species; of these, 74 are acciden­ tal, 7 hypothetical, and 15 formerly recorded, leaving 349 species which are found with some degree of regularity. This list attempts to include all species that have occurred in the area in historic times as well as the present. The large number of species results, not only from the variety of habitats described in Chapter 1, but also from the fact that the area is wholly within the Central Flyway, one of the four major avifaunal migra­ tion routes in North America. Migration begins in early July, when the shorebirds begin to arrive on their way south, and continues until the end of May, when passerines and some shorebirds are still seen going north. The peak of the spring warbler migration, when more than 20 species may be recorded at one spot in one day, is usually the last week in April or the first half of May; however, warbler migration in the spring actually starts during the middle of March and continues to the first of June. East meets west for several bird species within the area covered by this guide: for example, the Blue Jay is found to the east; to the west, the Scrub Jay rapidly replaces its eastern counterpart. Eastern and Western kingbirds, White-eyed and Bell's vireos, and Red-bellied and Goldenfronted woodpeckers are all at or near their eastern and western limits, respectively. Birds approaching their western breeding limits are Barred Owl, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Carolina Chickadee and Field Spar­ row; western birds near their eastern breeding limits are the Blackchinned Hummingbird, Ash-throated and Vermillion flycatchers, Can­ yon Wren, Curve-billed Thrasher, and Rufous-crowned, Cassin's, and Black-throated sparrows. Birding visitors to South Central Texas most often inquire about where to find the Golden-cheeked Warbler, Black-capped Vireo, and to a lesser extent, Green Kingfisher. The Balcones Canyonlands is and his­ torically has been the principal breeding area for the warbler and the

48

Wildlife of South Central Texas

vireo, and both have been designated as endangered species by the U S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Green Kingfishers are found on streams of the Edwards Plateau as well as along the Rio Grande farther south. At the present time the Golden-cheeked Warbler is found in thirtyone Texas counties, most in the Balcones Canyonlands or in nearby areas with similar geology. They nest only in Texas. Ideal nesting habitat is found in juniper-oak woodlands distributed along steep scarps and can­ yons. Prime habitat has a diverse mixture of Ashe juniper and hardwood trees, especially Texas, Lacey, or scaleybark (shin) oaks. Arizona walnut, sycamore, escarpment choke-cherry, madrone, coma, cedar elm, and bigtooth maple are often lesser components of this unique habitat. The steep narrow canyons of the Balcones Canyonlands, with tall, deciduous trees along the drainage bottoms and junipers on the slopes, provide an ideal mix of vegetation for this bird. Apparently, the female Golden­ cheeked Warbler will not build her nest unless very long strips of mature Ashe juniper bark are available. The oaks probably harbor an important source of food, mainly insect larvae. Golden-cheeked Warblers are not easily located, and the nests can be very difficult to find. They seem to prefer the upper margins of canyons and ravines where the terrain is roughest. The best time to look for this endemic bird is from the middle of March to the end of May, while the males are singing. Migration south to southern Mexico and Central America begins in June, and they are hard to find in South Central Texas after July i. Locations accessible to the public in the area where the warbler may be found include Turkey Creek in Emma Long Metropolitan Park (City Park) in Travis County, Cedar Brakes Park at Lake Georgetown on the San Gabriel River west of Georgetown, Friedrich Park in Bexar County, and Pedernales Falls State Park in Blanco County. The Travis Audubon Society has established a sanctuary for the Golden-cheeked Warbler in Travis County. Regulations for entry change from time to time. Call (512) 483-0952 at least 24 hours in advance for current entry policy. Pub­ lic locations outside the area covered by this handbook where Golden­ cheeked Warblers can be found are Colorado Bend State Park, Dinosaur Valley State Park, Meridian State Park, Garner State Park, Lost Maples State Natural Area, and Kerr Wildlife Management Area. The historic summer home of the Black-capped Vireo extended from Mexico northward into Kansas. With removal of nesting habitat, the range has been greatly reduced. Recent records in Texas extend from Dal­ las County to Big Bend National Park, with most on the Edwards Plateau. At the present time, the bird does not regularly nest in any public loca­

Birds

49

tions in the area covered by this book except for Friedrich Park in Bexar County and Hippie Hollow Park in Travis County. The Wild Basin, (512) 327-7622, has provided information and tours to find vireos in the past, but it is not known if this practice will continue. Public lands outside the area covered by this book where the vireo has been recorded recently include Big Bend National Park, Colorado Bend State Park in San Saba County, Dinosaur Valley State Park in Somervell County, Meridian State Park in Bosque County, Kickapoo Cavern State Natural Area in Kinney County, South Llano River State Park and Walter Buck Wildlife Manage­ ment Area in Kimble County, Devil's River State Natural Area in Val Verde County, Hill Country State Natural Area in Bandera and Medina counties, Lost Maples State Natural Area in Bandera County, and Kerr Wildlife Management Area in Kerr County. In the Balcones Canyonlands, the breeding habitat is a subclimax between grasslands and woodlands of mature oak and/or juniper, characterized by clumps of low shrubs grow­ ing close to the ground (oaks, sumac, and others), adjoining open grassy areas. Two projects underway to protect the Golden-cheeked Warbler and the Black-capped Vireo are the Balcones Canyonlands Conservation Plan and the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge. The Balcones Canyonlands Conservation Plan is a cooperative effort of conservation­ ists, developers, landowners, and governmental agencies to develop a re­ gional plan to protect the ecosystem, thereby ensuring protection of en­ dangered and endemic species. The plan attempts to resolve land-use conflicts, to preserve and enhance water quality (especially on Barton Creek and Lake Austin), and to conserve the habitat, not only of these two birds, but also the rare plants and invertebrates of the area. It seeks to protect 29,000 acres through voluntary restrictions and a preserve system. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, as its part of the plan, is acquiring land for the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge in northwest Travis County as well as portions of Burnet and Williamson Counties. At present, 10,000 acres, plus or minus, has been purchased, with plans for the refuge to eventually contain about 40,000 acres. Due to lack of facilities, personnel, and funding, the refuge is not now open to visitors, but it is hoped there will be at least limited access to the gen­ eral public by 1995. These projects, when implemented, should ensure preservation of significant habitat for a wide range of canyonland animal and plant species, including breeding territory for both the Golden­ cheeked Warbler and Black-capped Vireo. On the Edwards Plateau, Green Kingfishers should be looked for on clear streams. Favorable locations in the past, although not in every year,

50

Wildlife of South Central Texas

include the Blanco River west of IH 35 to its source in Kendall County; the Pedernales River below Pedernales Falls State Park; the creeks flow­ ing into the Pedernales River in Hays and Travis counties; in Wimberley, both the Blanco River and Cypress Creek; Honey Creek adjacent to Gua­ dalupe River State Park in Comal County; and Onion Creek in Hays County near Driftwood. Canoeing affords ready access to these areas and offers a high probability of success. To assist bird seekers wanting to keep abreast of the many unusual birds which show up from time to time in South Central Texas, there are two rare bird alert numbers: in San Antonio—(210) 733-8306; in Aus­ tin—(512) 483-0952. All records of Accidental and Hypothetical species should be reported to the Bird Records Committee of the Texas Ornitho­ logical Society, in care of Gregory W. Lasley, 305 Loganberry Court, Aus­ tin, TX 78745. Give complete details, and if possible, send a photo of the bird and tape of voice. There are twelve bird checklists for the nineteen counties covered by this guide. All have been used extensively in preparing the list that fol­ lows. All checklists for state parks are available at the park or from Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, 4200 Smith School Road, Austin, TX 78744. The checklists are as follows:

AUSTIN

Check-List and Seasonal Distribution: Birds of the Austin, Texas Region, 7th ed., May 1989, is published by Travis Audubon Soci­ ety. Available from Travis Audubon Society, 5401 Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard, Austin, TX 78722. Covers a circle within a 60mile radius of Austin, Texas. BASTROP

Birds of Buescher and Bastrop State Parks, Texas Parks and Wild­ life Department, November 1988. BELL

Birds of Bell County, Texas, Twin Lakes Audubon Society and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, undated. To obtain a copy send ad­ dressed, stamped envelope to Twin Lakes Audubon Society, De­ partment of Biology, University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, UMHB Station, Belton, TX 76513. Checklist is free. BEXAR

Birds of Bexar County, Texas: A Seasonal Checklist, San Antonio Audubon Society, 1986. Available by mail from San Antonio Au­

Birds

51

dubon Society, 3006 Belvoir, San Antonio, TX 78230, for 25 cents plus addressed, stamped envelope or may be purchased at the San Antonio Zoo. Envelope must accommodate 4" x 7", 16-page checklist. BURNET

Bird Check List of Highland Lakes Birding Society, Burnet, TX, December 1987. Available from Highland Lakes Birding Associa­ tion, Burnet County Library, Burnet, TX 78611, for 25 cents plus an addressed, stamped envelope. en ch a n ted rock

Birds of Enchanted Rock State Natural Area: A Field Checklist, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, August 1989. GUADALUPE RIVER

Birds of Guadalupe River State Park, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, April 1984. LAKE SOMERVILLE

Birds of Lake Somerville State Recreation Area: A Field Check­ list, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, June 1989. LEE

Bird Checklist—Hugh Brown's Land, Lee County; June 1992. Available from Hugh Brown, Route 1, Box 291 A, Lexington, TX 78947, for 25 cents plus an addressed, stamped envelope. MCKINNEY FALLS

Birds of McKinney Falls State Park, Texas Parks and Wildlife De­ partment, December 1988. PALMETTO

Birds of Palmetto State Park: A Field Checklist, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, June 1988. PEDERNALES FALLS

Birds of Pedernales Falls State Park: A Field Checklist, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, January 1992. After each species account on the following pages, the checklists on which the bird appears are listed in italics; however, many of the rec­ ords are hypothetical or accidental and therefore, not expected. The in­ dividual checklists should be consulted for exact status. Birds on one or more of the above checklists, not included in the species accounts are American Black Duck, Barrow's Goldeneye, Chukar, Black Rail, Ringed

52

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Turtle-Dove, Budgerigar, Orange-fronted Parakeet, Phainopepla, North­ ern Shrike, Gray Vireo, and Bachman's Sparrow. These are not included for lack of documentation or because the species is an exotic not yet established. Recent literature has addressed the apparent recent occur­ rence of parrot species in Texas, particularly, far south Texas. Redcrowned Parrots have been found nesting in San Marcos, Hays County, in very limited numbers and Green Parakeets may be nesting in Bexar County. These are presumed to be escapees (though this is not certain) and time will tell whether these Mexican species become a permanent part of the South Central Texas avifauna. The authors are from Austin,- therefore, many locations given in the species accounts are near Austin. This should not be taken to mean these birds do not occur just as regularly elsewhere in the area. No effort has been made to show all places a bird has occurred or can occur. Where no specific location is given, it means the birds are either very easy to find or very difficult. Some descriptions such as "east of Balcones Escarpment" are meant to describe where birds can usually be found within the area covered by this guide only and not outside the area. Locations listed are generally those belonging to a governmental agency, such as parks and large lakes and areas observed from public roads. There are many excellent birding spots on private property or property where permission must be obtained for entry, but these are not considered within the province of this guide.

Nomenclature The names of birds follow the Check-List of North American Birds, sixth edition, American Ornithologists' Union, (1983), as amended through the Thirty-Eighth Supplement (August 1991). English names that have been changed in recent years are shown in parentheses. The birds are listed in phylogenetic order, that is, in the order in which it is believed they evolved, and is the same order that appears in practically all popular field guides and checklists. For each species, the following information is provided: (1) current English name; (2) current scientific name; (3) relative abundance by seasons in the nineteen-county area; (4) habitat(s); (5) selected locations (not intended to be comprehen­ sive); (6) other comments,- (7) checklists. The symbol * means the species has nested after 1969, more or less;Tmeans nested before 1970, more or less; * means introduced. See the Appendix for definitions of terms used in the species accounts and Selected References for specific references.

Birds

53

Class AVES: Birds Subclass NEORNITHES: True Birds Superorder NEOGNATHAE: Typical Birds Order GAVIIFORMES: Loons Family GAVIIDAE: Loons Red-throated Loon, Gavia stellata: Accidental in winter. Perennial waterways. Calaveras Lake. Austin, B exar Pacific Loon, Gavia pacifica: Accidental in fall and winter. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds. Bell, Bexar, and Travis counties. Austin, Bell, B exar

Common Loon, Gavia immer: Uncommon winter resident; rare in spring and fall. Perennial waterways, small impoundments. Lake Buchanan, Lake Somerville. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Som erville

Order PODICIPEDIFORMES: Grebes Family PODICIPEDIDAE: Grebes Least Grebe, Tachybaptus dominicus*: Rare, all seasons. Perennial wa­ terways, especially if marshy; wastewater ponds. Burnet, Gonza­ les, and Travis counties. Has nested in Bexar County. Austin, Bexar, Burnet, Palm etto

Pied-billed Grebe, Podilymbus podiceps*: Common fall, winter, and spring resident; uncommon summer resident. Perennial water­ ways, wastewater ponds, small impoundments. Has nested at Lake Walter E. Long and in Bexar County. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P al­ m etto, Pedernales Falls

Horned Grebe, Podiceps auritus: Rare fall and winter resident; acciden­ tal in spring and summer. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds. Throughout. Lake Buchanan, Town Lake. Austin, Bastrop, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Palm etto

Red-necked Grebe, Podiceps grisegena: Hypothetical. Bexar County. B exar (M a y 19 57 , M a y 1 9 79 ]

Eared Grebe, Podiceps nigricollisf\ Uncommon fall, winter, and spring resident; rare in summer. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds. Throughout. Highland Lakes. Has nested in Bexar County. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

54

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Western Grebe, Aechmophorus occidentalis: Accidental in spring, fall, and winter. Perennial waterways. Calaveras Lake, Lake Buchanan, Lake Georgetown, Granger Lake. Austin, Bexar, Burnet

Order PROCELLARIIFORMES: Tube-nosed Swimmers Family HYDROBATIDAE: Storm-Petrels Band-rumped Storm-Petrel, Oceanodroma castro: Accidental in sum­ mer. Mitchell Lake. B exar

Order PELECANIFORMES: Totipalmate Swimmers Suborder PELECANI: Boobies, Pelicans, Cormorants, and Darters Family PELECANIDAE: Pelicans American White Pelican (White Pelican), Pelecanus erythrorhynchos: Common spring and fall migrant in large flocks; rare in winter. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds, small impoundments. Throughout. Some years a few winter at Granger Lake. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Som erville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, Palm etto

Brown Pelican, Pelecanus occidentalis: Accidental, all seasons. Prob­ ably blown in by gulf storms. Bexar and Travis counties. Austin, B exar

Family PHALACROCORACIDAE: Cormorants Double-crested Cormorant, Phalacrocorax auritus: Abundant fall, win­ ter, and spring resident; rare in summer. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds, small impoundments. All area lakes. No nest records. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, G uadalupe River, Lake Som er­ ville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, P alm etto

Neotropic Cormorant (Olivaceous Cormorant), Phalacrocorax olivaceusf: Rare spring, summer, and fall resident; occasional in win­ ter. Perennial waterways, small impoundments. Bell, Bexar, Bur­ net, Gonzales and Lee counties. May nest. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Som erville, Palm etto

Family ANHINGIDAE: Darters Anhinga, Anhinga anhingaf: Uncommon spring and fall visitor,- rare summer visitor. Perennial waterways. Mostly east of Balcones

Birds Escarpment.

55

Austin, Bastrop, Bexor, £ívr/7e£, ¿aAe Somerville, Lee, P al­

m etto, Pedernales Falls

Suborder FREGATAE: Frigatebirds Family FREGATIDAE: Frigatebirds Magnificent Frigatebird, Fregata magnificens: Accidental in summer and fall. Probably blown in by gulf storms. Bexar and Travis counties. Austin, B exar

Order CICONIIFORMES: Herons, Ibises, Storks, and Allies Suborder ARDEAE: Bitterns, Herons, and Allies Family ARDEIDAE: Bitterns and Herons Tribe BOTAURINI: Bitterns

American Bittern, Botaurus lentiginosus: Rare spring and fall migrant; accidental in winter. Marshes, wastewater ponds, perennial water­ ways. Throughout. Austin, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Lee, Palm etto Least Bittern, Ixobrychus exilis*: Rare summer resident; rare spring and fall migrant. Marshes. Has nested at Lake Walter E. Long and Bexar County. Austin, Bexar, Lake Somerville, Palm etto Tribe ARDEINI: Typical Herons

Great Blue Heron, Ardea herodias*: Common permanent resident. Intermittent waterways, perennial waterways, small impound­ ments. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Peder­ nales Falls

Great Egret, Casmerodius albus*: Uncommon permanent resident. Pe­ rennial waterways, wastewater ponds. Has nested in Cattle Egret rookeries. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

Snowy Egret, Egretta thula: Uncommon in spring and summer; com­ mon in fall; rare in winter. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds. Throughout. Granger Lake, Shipp Lake. Austin, B astrop, Bell, Bexar, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

Little Blue Heron, Egretta caerulea*: Uncommon spring and summer resident; common fall migrant; accidental in winter. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds, small impoundments. Throughout.

56

Wildlife of South Central Texas Has nested in Cattle Egret rookeries.

Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar,

Burnet, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Tricolored Heron (Louisiana Heron), E g ie t t a t r ic o lo r : Uncommon in summer and fall; accidental in spring. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds. Throughout. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Granger Lake. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P alm etto

Reddish Egret, Egretta rufescens: Accidental in summer, fall, and win­ ter. Creeks, wastewater ponds. McKinney Falls State Park, Lake Somerville, Mitchell and Braunig lakes. Austin, Bexar, Lake Som er­ ville, McKinney Falls

Cattle Egret, Bubulcus ibis*: Abundant spring, summer, and fall resi­ dent; rare in winter. Perennial waterways, range and pastures, small impoundments. Throughout, often seen with grazing cattle. Has nested in Travis and Williamson counties, Round Rock, and Taylor. Immigrant from Africa by way of South America. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Green-backed Heron (Green Heron), Butorides striatus*: Common spring, summer, and fall resident; rare in winter. Intermittent wa­ terways, wastewater ponds, small impoundments. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Tribe NYCTICORACINI: Night-Herons

Black-crowned Night-Heron, Nycticorax nycticorax*: Rare, all seasons. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds. Mostly east of the Bal­ cones Escarpment. Town Lake. Nests in Bexar County Austin, Bell, Bexar, Lake Somerville, McKinney Falls, P alm etto

Yellow-crowned Night-Heron, Nycticorax violaceus*: Uncommon spring, summer, and fall resident. Intermittent waterways, marshes, small impoundments. Throughout. Creeks, Town Lake, Brackenridge Park. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

Suborder THRESKIORNITHES: Ibises and Spoonbills Family THRESKIORNITHIDAE: Ibises and Spoonbills Subfamily THRESKIORNITHINAE: Ibises White Ibis, Eudocimus albus: Rare, all seasons. Wastewater ponds, pe­ rennial waterways. Mostly east of Balcones Escarpment. Austin, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Lee, P alm etto

Birds

57

Glossy Ibis, Plegadis falcinellus: Accidental in spring. Wastewater ponds. Mitchell Lake and Hornsby Bend Ponds. White-faced Ibis, Plegadis chihi: Uncommon spring and fall migrant; rare in summer and winter. Wastewater ponds, perennial water­ ways. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexor, Lake Somerville, Lee, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Subfamily PLATALEINAE: Spoonbills Roseate Spoonbill, Ajaia ajaja: Rare spring, summer, and fall visitor. Wastewater ponds, perennial waterways. Mostly east of Balcones Escarpment. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Lake Somerville, Lee, P alm etto

Suborder CICONIAE: Storks Family CICONIIDAE: Storks Tribe MYCTERIINI: Wood Storks

Wood Stork, Mycteria americana: Accidental in spring and summer; rare fall visitor. Perennial waterways. Mostly east of Balcones Escarpment. Lake Somerville. Austin, Bexar, Lake Somerville, Lee, Palm etto

Order ANSERIFORMES: Screamers, Swans, Geese, and Ducks Suborder ANSERES: Swans, Geese, and Ducks Family ANATIDAE: Swans, Geese, and Ducks Subfamily ANSERINAE: Whistling-Ducks, Swans, and Geese Tribe DENDROCYGNINI: Whistling-Ducks

Fulvous Whistling-Duck (Fulvous Tree Duck), Dendrocygna bicolor: Occasional, all seasons. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds. Mostly east of Balcones Escarpment. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Lake Somerville, Bexar County. Austin, B exar, Lake Somerville, Lee Black-bellied Whistling-Duck (Black-bellied Tree Duck), Dendrocygna autumnalis*: Uncommon spring, summer, and fall resident; rare in winter. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds. Reported from Lee and Gonzales counties, has nested in Bexar and Travis coun­ ties. Apparently extending range northward. Austin, Bexar, Lake Som erville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

58

Wildlife of South Central Texas Tribe CYGNINI: Swans

Tundra Swan (Whistling Swan), Cygnus columbianus: Occasional in winter. Farm ponds. Bell, Bexar, and Hays counties. Austin, Bell, B exar

Tribe ANSERINI: Geese

Greater White-fronted Goose (White-fronted Goose), Anser albifrons: Rare fall and winter visitor; accidental in spring. Wastewater ponds, small impoundments. Mostly east of Balcones Escarpment. Heard overhead during spring and fall migrations. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Lake Somerville, Lee, Palm etto

Snow Goose, Chen caerulescens: Rare fall, winter, and spring visitor. Croplands, range and pastures, perennial waterways, wastewater ponds. Throughout. Heard overhead during spring and fall migra­ tions. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Som erville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, P alm etto

Ross' Goose, Chen rossii: Occasional in spring, fall, and winter. Waste­ water ponds, perennial waterways. Mostly east of Balcones Escarpment. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Palm etto Canada Goose, Branta canadensis: Rare fall, winter, and spring visitor. Croplands, range and pastures, small impoundments. Throughout. Heard overhead during spring and fall migrations. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, P alm etto

Subfamily ANATINAE: D ucks Tribe CAIRININI: Muscovy Ducks and Allies

Wood Duck, Aix sponsa*: Uncommon permanent resident. Perennial waterways, riparian woodlands, wastewater ponds, small im­ poundments. Throughout. Town Lake. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Tribe ANATINI: Dabbling Ducks

Green-winged Teal, Anas crecca: Common fall, winter, and spring resi­ dent. Intermittent waterways, perennial waterways, wastewater ponds, small impoundments. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Lake Som erville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, P al­ m etto, Pedernales Falls

Mottled Duck, Anas fulvigula: Rare visitor, a11 seasons. Small im-

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59

poundments, perennial waterways. Mostly east of Balcones Es­ carpment. Granger Lake, Shipp Lake, Lake Somerville. Austin, Bexar, Lake Som erville, Lee

Mallard, Anas platyrhynchos*: Common spring, fall, and winter resi­ dent; uncommon summer resident. Perennial waterways, small impoundments. Throughout. Highland Lakes. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, M cKin­ ney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Northern Pintail (Pintail), Anas acuta: Common spring, fall, and winter resident. Intermittent waterways, perennial waterways, waste­ water ponds, small impoundments. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P al­ m etto, Pedernales Falls

Blue-winged Teal, Anas discors*: Abundant spring and fall migrant. Rare in summer and winter. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds, small impoundments. Throughout. Has nested in Bexar County. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Lake Som er­ ville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Cinnamon Teal, Anas cyanoptera*: Uncommon spring visitor; rare in fall and winter. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds, small impoundments. Never more than a few at a time. Throughout. Has nested in Bexar County. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Som er­ ville, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Northern Shoveler, Anas clypeata: Abundant spring, fall, and winter. Wastewater ponds, small impoundments. Throughout. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Inks Lake Fish Hatchery. Has nested in Bexar County. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Gadwall, Anas strepera*: Common spring, fall, and winter; rare in sum­ mer. Intermittent waterways, perennial waterways, wastewater ponds, small impoundments. Throughout. Found in more differ­ ent habitats in winter than any other duck. Has nested at Mitch­ ell Lake. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Eurasian Wigeon (European Wigeon), Anas penelope: Accidental in spring, fall, and winter. Small impoundments, wastewater ponds. Austin

American Wigeon, Anas americana: Common spring, fall, and winter resident; rare in summer. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds, small impoundments. Throughout. Lake Somerville, Inks Lake Fish Hatchery. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

60

Wildlife of South Central Texas Tribe AYTHYINI: Pochards and Allies

Canvasback, Aythya valisineria: Uncommon spring, fall, and winter resident. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds, small impound­ ments. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, B exar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Lake Somerville, Palm etto

Redhead, Aythya americana: Uncommon spring, fall, and winter resi­ dent. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds, small impound­ ments. Throughout. Hornsby Bend Ponds, below Mansfield Dam, Inks Lake Fish Hatchery. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Lee, Palm etto

Ring-necked Duck, Aythya collaris: Uncommon spring, fall, and winter resident; accidental in summer. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds, small impoundments. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Lake Somerville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, P al­ m etto, Pedernales Falls

Greater Scaup, Aythya marila: Accidental, all seasons. Perennial water­ ways, wastewater ponds. Throughout. Hornsby Bend Ponds. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

Lesser Scaup, Aythya affinis: Abundant spring, fall, and winter resident. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds, small impoundments. Throughout. Town Lake, Inks Lake Fish Hatchery. Austin, Bas­ trop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Lake Som erville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Tribe MERGINI: Eiders, Scoters, Mergansers, and Allies

Oldsquaw, Clangula hyemalis: Occasional in spring, fall, and winter. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds. Town Lake, Inks Lake Fish Hatchery, Bexar County. Austin, Bastrop, B exar Black Scoter, Melanitta nigra: Formerly recorded. Bexar County (1957). B exar

Surf Scoter, Melanitta perspicillata: Rare fall and winter visitor. Peren­ nial waterways, wastewater ponds, small impoundments. Hornsby Bend Ponds. Austin, B exar White-winged Scoter, Melanitta fusca: Rare winter visitor. Perennial waterways, small impoundments. Town Lake, Bexar County. Austin, B exar

Common Goldeneye, Bucephala clangula: Uncommon winter resident; occasional in spring and summer. Wastewater ponds, perennial waterways. Mostly east of Balcones Escarpment, Hornsby Bend Ponds. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Som erville, Palm etto Bufflehead, Bucephala albeola: Common fa11, winter, and spring resi-

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dent. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds, small impound­ ments. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Inks Lake Fish Hatchery. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Lee, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Hooded Merganser, Lophodytes cucullatus: Uncommon fall and winter resident. Accidental in spring. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds, small impoundments. Hornsby Bend Ponds, farm ponds. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Som erville, Lee, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Common Merganser, Mergus merganser: Occasional in winter. Peren­ nial waterways, wastewater ponds. Bastrop, Bexar, Burnet, and Travis counties. Austin, Bastrop, Bexar, Burnet Red-breasted Merganser, Mergus senator: Uncommon fall and winter resident. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds. Lake Buchanan, Inks Lake State Park. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Som er­ ville, P alm etto

Tribe OXYURINI: Stiff-tailed Ducks

Ruddy Duck, Oxyura jamaicensis*: Common fall, winter, and spring resident; rare in summer. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds, small impoundments. Has nested in Bexar County. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Town Lake. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Palm etto

Masked Duck, Oxyura dominica: Accidental in spring, fall, and winter. Small impoundments. Probably blown in by gulf storms. Hays and Bexar counties. Austin, Bexar, Burnet

Order FALCONIFORMES: Diurnal Birds of Prey Suborder CATHARTAE: American Vultures Superfamily CATHARTOIDEA: American Vultures Family CATHARTIDAE: American Vultures Black Vulture, Coragyps atiatus*: Common permanent resident. Wooded uplands. Throughout. Usually seen overhead. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Som er­ ville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Turkey Vulture, Cathartes aura*: Abundant permanent resident. Wooded uplands. Throughout. Usually seen soaring overhead. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

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Wildlife of South Central Texas

Suborder ACCIPITRES: Secretarybirds, Kites, Eagles, Hawks, and Allies S u p e r fa m ily

ACCIPITROIDEA: Kites, Eagles, Hawks, and Allies

Family ACCIPITRIDAE: Kites, Eagles, Hawks, and Allies Subfamily PANDIONINAE: Ospreys Osprey, Pandion haliaetus: Uncommon fall, winter, and spring resi­ dent; occasional in summer. Perennial waterways. All area lakes. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P al­ m etto, Pedernales Falls

Subfamily ACCIPITRINAE: Kites, Eagles, Hawks, and Allies American Swallow-tailed Kite (Swallow-tailed Kite), Elanoides forficatus: Accidental in spring and summer. Bexar and Travis counties. Austin, B exar

Black-shouldered Kite, Elanus caeruleus*: Rare spring, summer, and fall resident; accidental in winter. Wooded uplands. Bastrop and Cald­ well counties. Has nested. Austin, Bastrop, Bexar, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, P alm etto

Mississippi Kite, Ictinia mississippiensis: Uncommon spring and fall migrant. Croplands, invaded fields, range and pastures. Through­ out. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, Palm etto

Bald Eagle, Fialiaeetus leucocephalusf: Uncommon winter resident. Perennial waterways. Lake Buchanan, Lake Somerville, Lake Bastrop. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Som erville, Pedernales Falls

Northern Harrier (Marsh Hawk), Circus cyaneus: Common fall, winter, and spring resident. Croplands, invaded fields, range and pastures. Throughout. Typically, the low-flying hawk during the winter months. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Som erville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P alm etto, Pedernales Falls

Sharp-shinned Hawk, Accipiter striatus: Uncommon spring and fall mi­ grant; rare in winter; occasional in summer. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands, cultural areas. Throughout. Usually seen over­ head. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, P alm etto, Pedernales Falls

Cooper's Hawk, Accipiter cooperii*: Rare in fall, winter, and spring; occasional in summer. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Nests on Edwards Plateau. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar,

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63

Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Northern Goshawk, Accipiter gentilis: Accidental in spring and sum­ mer. Bexar and Travis counties. Austin, B exar Common Black-Hawk, Buteogallus anthracinus: Hypothetical. Bexar and Travis counties. Austin, B exar Harris' Hawk, Parabuteo unicinctus*: Rare fall and winter visitor. In­ vaded fields, wooded uplands. Throughout but mostly east and south of Austin. Has nested in Bexar County. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

Red-shouldered Hawk, Buteo lineatus*: Uncommon permanent resi­ dent. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Palmetto State Park, Buescher State Park, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

Broad-winged Hawk, Buteo platypterus*: Uncommon spring and fall migrant; rare in summer. Throughout during migration, often in large flocks. May have nested in Travis County near Lake Austin. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Swainson's Hawk, Buteo swainsonf: Uncommon spring and fall mi­ grant; rare in summer; occasional in winter. Croplands, invaded fields, range and pastures. Throughout. Sometimes migrates in large flocks. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uada­ lupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

White-tailed Hawk, Buteo albicaudatus: Occasional fall, winter, and spring visitor. Croplands, invaded fields, range and pastures. Bas­ trop and Bexar counties. Austin, B exar Zone-tailed Hawk, Buteo albonotatusf: Occasional in winter and spring. Most records from Bastrop County near Colorado River. Austin, Bastrop, Bexar, Palm etto

Red-tailed Hawk, Buteo jamaicensis*: Common fall, winter, and spring resident; uncommon summer resident. Croplands, invaded fields, range and pastures. Throughout. Most common buteo in winter. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Ferruginous Hawk, Buteo regalis: Rare spring, fall, and winter resident. Croplands, invaded fields, range and pastures. Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Gonzales and Lee counties. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Lake Somerville, Palm etto

Rough-legged Hawk, Buteo lagopus: Occasional spring, fall, and winter resident. Croplands, invaded fields, range and pastures. Enchanted

64

Wildlife of South Central Texas Rock State Natural Area; Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, and Lee counties. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Enchanted Rock, Lake Som erville

Golden Eagle, Aquila chrysaetos: Occasional visitor, all seasons. Usu­ ally flying by overhead. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Pedernales Falls

Suborder FALCONES: Caracaras and Falcons Family FALCONIDAE: Caracaras and Falcons Tribe POLYBORINI: Caracaras

Crested Caracara (Caracara), Polyborus plancus*: Uncommon perma­ nent resident. Croplands, invaded fields, wooded uplands. Throughout. Usually south and east of Austin. Sometimes flocks in winter. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Guadalupe River, Lake Som erville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

Tribe FALCONINI: True Falcons

American Kestrel, Falco sparverius: Abundant spring, fall, and winter resident. Wooded uplands, range and pastures. Throughout. Often seen perched on utility lines and fences. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Fails

Merlin, Falco columbarius: Rare spring, fall, and winter visitor. Wooded uplands, range and pastures. Throughout. Erratic. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Guadalupe River, Lake Som erville, Lee, Palm etto

Prairie Falcon, Falco mexicanus: Occasional winter visitor. Croplands, invaded fields. Bell and Hays counties. Austin, Bell Peregrine Falcon, Falco peregrinus: Rare spring and fall migrant; occa­ sional summer and winter visitor. Perennial waterways, small im­ poundments. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Lee

Order GALLIFORMES: Gallinaceous Birds Superfamily PHASIANOIDEA: Partridges, Grouse, Turkeys, and Quail Family PHASIANIDAE: Partridges, Grouse, Turkeys, and Quail Subfamily PHASIANINAE: Partridges and Pheasants Tribe PHASIANINI: Pheasants Ring-necked Pheasant, Phasianus colchicus: Rare in Williamson County. Native of Asia. Introduced at Granger Lake. Status uncertain. Austin, McKinney Falls

Birds

65

Subfamily TETRAONINAE: Grouse Greater Prairie-Chicken, Tympanuchus cupido: Extirpated. Travis County (1878). Austin Subfamily MELEAGRIDINAE: Turkeys Wild Turkey (Turkey), Meleagris gallopavo*: Uncommon permanent resident. Croplands, range and pastures, riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Pedernales Falls State Park, En­ chanted Rock State Natural Area. Austin, Beil, B exar, Burnet, En­ chanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Subfamily ODONTOPHORINAE: Quail Montezuma Quail, Cyrtonyx montezumae*: Formerly recorded. Bexar County (1901). B exar Northern Bobwhite (Bobwhite), Colinus virginianus*: Abundant perma­ nent resident. Range and pastures, fence rows. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Scaled Quail, Callipepla squamata: Accidental in summer, fall, and winter. Bexar County. Austin, B exar

Order GRUIFORMES: Cranes, Rails, and Allies Family RALLIDAE: Rails, Gallinules, and Coots Subfamily RALLINAE: Rails, Gallinules, and Coots Yellow Rail, Coturnicops noveboracensis: Flypothetical. Travis County (October 1984). Austin King Rail, Rallus eleganst: Rare spring and fall migrant. Small im­ poundments, marshes. Lake Somerville; Bexar and Travis counties. Austin, Bexar, Lake Som erville Virginia Rail, Rallus limicola: Rare spring and fall migrant; occasional in winter. Marshes. Mostly east of Balcones Escarpment. Bell, Bexar, Gonzales, Lee, and Travis counties. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Lake Somerville, Lee, P alm etto

Sora, Porzana Carolina: Rare spring and fall migrant; occasional in win­ ter. Marshes, small impoundments. Mostly east of Balcones Es­ carpment. Lake Walter E. Long. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

Purple Gallinule, Porphyrula maitinica*: Rare summer resident; occa­ sional fall visitor. Small impoundments, perennial waterways

66

Wildlife of South Central Texas with water hyacinths. Throughout. Has nested at Lake Gonzales. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Som erville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

Common Moorhen, Gallínula chloropus*: Rare spring, summer, and fall resident; occasional in winter. Intermittent waterways, small impoundments. Throughout. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, LakeS o m erville, McKinney Foils, Palm etto

American Coot, Fúlica americana*: Abundant spring, fall, and winter resident; uncommon summer resident. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds, small impoundments. Throughout. Lake Wal­ ter E. Long in summer; all area lakes spring, fall, and winter. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Lake Somerville, Lee, M c ­ Kinney Falls, P alm etto

Family GRUIDAE: Cranes Subfamily GRUINAE: Typical Cranes Sandhill Crane, Grus canadensis: Uncommon spring, fall, and winter resident. Croplands, invaded fields. Throughout. Winters at farm pond adjacent to New Braunfels dump. Often seen and heard mi­ grating in spring and fall. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, En­ chanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Som erville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Pal­ m etto, Pedernales Falls

Whooping Crane, Grus americana: Occasional fall migrant. Small im­ poundments. Throughout. Austin, Bell, B exar, Burnet, Lee

Order CHARADRIIFORMES: Shorebirds, Gulls, Auks, and Allies Suborder CHARADRII: Plovers and Allies Family CHARADRIIDAE: Plovers and Lapwings Subfamily CHARADRIINAE: Plovers Black-bellied Plover, Pluvialis squatarola: Uncommon spring and fall migrant; occasional in summer. Wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Lake Somerville, and Bell and Bexar counties. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Lake Somerville, McKinney Falls

Lesser Golden-Plover (American Golden Plover), Pluvialis dominica: Uncommon spring migrant; rare fall migrant; occasional in sum­ mer. Riparian baregrounds, wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Lake Somerville, Bell and Bexar counties. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Lake Som erville

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67

Snowy Plover, Charadrius alexandrinus: Occasional spring and fall mi­ grant. Riparian baregrounds, wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Bell, Bexar, and Burnet counties. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet Wilson's Plover, Charadrius wilsonia: Accidental in summer and fall. Wastewater ponds. Mitchell Lake. B exar Semipalmated Plover, Charadrius semipalmatus: Uncommon spring and fall migrant. Riparian baregrounds, wastewater ponds. Lake Somerville, Hornsby Bend Ponds, Bell and Bexar counties. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Lake Somerville, Lee

Piping Plover, Charadrius melodus: Occasional fall migrant; accidental in spring. Wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Bell and Bexar counties. Austin, Bell, B exar Killdeer, Charadrius vociferus*: Abundant permanent resident. Waste­ water ponds, perennial waterways, small impoundments, range and pastures, cultural areas (parking lots, flat roof buildings). Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Gua­ dalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Mountain Plover, Charadrius montanus: Rare winter resident; occa­ sional spring and fall migrant. Croplands, range and pastures. Wil­ liamson County west of Granger Lake,- Guadalupe County east of New Braunfels Airport; Bell County. Austin, Bell, B exar Family RECURVIROSTRIDAE: Stilts and Avocets Black-necked Stilt, Himantopus mexicanus*: Uncommon spring and summer resident. Wastewater ponds, small impoundments. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Mitchell Lake, and Bell and Burnet counties. Has nested regularly in recent years at Mitchell Lake and Hornsby Bend Ponds. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet American Avocet, Recurvirostra americana*: Uncommon spring and fall migrant. Wastewater ponds. Lake Somerville, Hornsby Bend Ponds, and Bell, Bexar, Burnet, and Gonzales counties. Has nested at Mitchell Lake. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, P alm etto

Suborder SCOLOPACI: Sandpipers, Jacanas, and Allies Superfamily JACANOIDEA: Jacanas Family JACANIDAE: Jacanas Northern Jacana, facana spinosaf: Accidental in spring, fall, and winter. Range and pastures, wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Gon­ zales County. Austin, Bexar, P alm etto

68

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Superfamily SCOLOPACOIDEA: Sandpipers, Phalaropes, and Allies Family SCOLOPACIDAE: Sandpipers, Phalaropes, and Allies Subfamily SCOLOPACINAE: Sandpipers and Allies Tribe TRINGINI: Tringine Sandpipers

Greater Yellowlegs, Tringa melanoleuca: Uncommon spring and fall migrant; rare in late summer and winter. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds, small impoundments. Hornsby Bend Ponds, all area lakes. Austin, B astrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Som erville, Lee, M c ­ Kinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Lesser Yellowlegs, Tringa flavipes: Common spring and fall migrant; rare in winter. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds, small im­ poundments. All area lakes, Hornsby Bend Ponds. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Som erville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Solitary Sandpiper, Tringa solitaria: Uncommon spring and fall mi­ grant; occasional in winter. Wastewater ponds, riparian baregrounds, small impoundments. Throughout. Farm ponds, Hornsby Bend Ponds, Mitchell Lake. Austin, B astrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Gua­ dalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Willet, Catoptrophorus semipalmatus: Rare spring and fall migrant. Perennial waterways, riparian baregrounds, wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds and Bexar and Burnet counties. Austin, Bexar, Burnet

Spotted Sandpiper, Actitis macularia: Common except in June. Ri­ parian baregrounds, perennial waterways, wastewater ponds. Throughout. Hornsby Bend Ponds, all area lakes. Does not nest. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Tribe NUMENIINI: Curlews

Upland Sandpiper, Bartramia longicauda: Common spring and fall migrant; occasional in summer. Croplands, range and pastures. Throughout. Often heard calling overhead at night during migra­ tion. Nesting suspected in Williamson County. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

Eskimo Curlew, Numenius borealis: Hypothetical in Bexar County. B exar

Whimbrel, Numenius phaeopus: Accidental in spring, summer, and fall. Wastewater ponds. Lake Somerville, Hornsby Bend Ponds, Bexar County. Austin, Bexar, Lake Som erville

Birds

69

Long-billed Curlew, Numenius americanus: Rare spring and fall mi­ grant; occasional in winter. Wastewater ponds, range and pastures. Throughout. Hornsby Bend Ponds. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, P alm etto

Tribe LIMOSINI: Godwits

Hudsonian Godwit, Limosa haemastica: Rare spring migrant; acciden­ tal in fall. Wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Lake Somer­ ville, Bexar County. Austin, Bexar, Lake Som erville Bar-tailed Godwit, Limosa lapponica: Hypothetical in Gonzales County. Palm etto Marbled Godwit, Limosa fedoa: Occasional spring and fall migrant; accidental in summer. Wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Lake Somerville, Bexar County. Austin, Bexar, Lake Som erville Tribe ARENARIINI: Turnstones

Ruddy Turnstone, Arenaria interpres: Rare spring and fall migrant. Ri­ parian baregrounds, wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Lake Somerville, Bexar County. Austin, Bexar, Lake Som erville Tribe CALIDRIDINI: Calidridine Sandpipers

Red Knot, Calidris canutus: Occasional fall migrant. Wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds. Austin Sanderling, Calidris alba: Rare fall migrant; occasional in spring. Ri­ parian baregrounds, wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Mitchell Lake, Bell County. Austin, Bell, B exar Semipalmated Sandpiper, Calidris pusilla: Uncommon spring and fall migrant. Riparian baregrounds, wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Lake Somerville, Bell and Bexar counties. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Lake Som erville

Western Sandpiper, Calidris mauri: Common spring and fall migrant; rare in winter. Riparian baregrounds, wastewater ponds. Through­ out. All area lakes. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

Least Sandpiper, Calidris minutilla: Abundant resident except in June. Riparian baregrounds, wastewater ponds. All area lakes, Hornsby Bend Ponds. Does not nest. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, En­ chanted Rock, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

White-rumped Sandpiper, Calidris fuscicollis: Uncommon late spring migrant; occasional fall migrant. Riparian baregrounds, waste-

70

Wildlife of South Central Texas water ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds.

Austin, Bell, Bexar, Lake

Som erville

Baird's Sandpiper, Calidris bairdii: Uncommon spring and fall migrant. Riparian baregrounds, wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds; Lake Somerville; Bell and Bexar counties. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Lake Som erville

Pectoral Sandpiper, Calidris melanotos: Common spring and fall mi­ grant; rare in winter. Riparian baregrounds, wastewater ponds. Throughout. Hornsby Bend Ponds. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Enchanted Rock, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Purple Sandpiper, Calidris maritima: Accidental in spring. Wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds. Austin Dunlin, Calidris alpina: Occasional, all seasons. Wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds; Lake Somerville,- Bexar and Gonzales coun­ ties. Does not nest. Austin, Bexar, Lake Som erville, P alm etto Curlew Sandpiper, Calidris ferruginea: Accidental in spring and fall. Wastewater ponds. Travis and Bexar counties. Austin, B exar Stilt Sandpiper, Calidris himantopus: Uncommon spring and fall mi­ grant. Riparian baregrounds, wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds; Lake Somerville; Bell and Bexar counties. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Lake Som erville

Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Tryngites subruficollis: Uncommon fall and rare spring migrant. Croplands, range and pastures, riparian bare­ grounds, wastewater ponds. Golf courses; Hornsby Bend Ponds; Lake Somerville; Bell and Bexar counties. Austin, Bell, B exar, Lake Som erville

Ruff (male), Reeve (female), Philomachus pugnax: Occasional, all sea­ sons. Wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Bexar County. Austin, B exar

Tribe LIMNODROMINI: Dowitchers

Short-billed Dowitcher, Limnodromus griseus: Rare to uncommon spring and fall migrant. Wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Bexar County. Austin, B exar Long-billed Dowitcher, Limnodromus scolopaceus: Uncommon spring and fall migrant; rare in winter. Riparian baregrounds, wastewater ponds. Mostly east of Balcones Escarpment. Hornsby Bend Ponds. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Lake Somerville, Lee, P alm etto, Pedernales Falls

Tribe GALLINAGININI: Snipe

Common Snipe, Gallinago gallinago: Uncommon spring, fail, and win­ ter resident. Marshes, riparian baregrounds, wastewater ponds.

Birds Throughout. Farm ponds.

71

Austin, B astrop, Beil, Bexar, Burnet, En­

chanted Rock, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Tribe SCOLOPACINI: Woodcocks

American Woodcock, Scolop ax minorf: Rare winter resident. Riparian woodlands, especially with thick leaf mold. Throughout. McKin­ ney Falls State Park, Hornsby Bend Ponds. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P alm etto

Subfamily PHALAROPODINAE: Phalaropes Wilson's Phalarope, Phalaropus tricolor: Common spring and fall migrant,- accidental in winter. Wastewater ponds. Throughout. Hornsby Bend Ponds. Most numerous phalarope in the area. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Red-necked Phalarope (Northern Phalarope), Phalaropus lobatus: Rare spring and fall migrant. Wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Bexar County. Austin, B exar Red Phalarope, Phalaropus fulicaria: Accidental in spring, summer, and fall. Wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Bexar County. Austin, B exar

Suborder LARI: Skuas, Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers Family LARIDAE: Skuas, Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers Subfamily STERCORARIINAE: Skuas and Jaegers Pomarine Jaeger, Stercorarius pomarinus: Accidental in winter. Travis County. Lake Travis. Austin Parasitic Jaeger, Stercorarius parasiticus: Accidental in summer. Mitch­ ell Lake. B exar Long-tailed Jaeger, Stercorarius longicaudus: Accidental in summer. Wastewater ponds. Travis County. Austin, B exar Subfamily LARINAE: Gulls Laughing Gull, Larus atricilla: Rare in Bexar County in summer and fall; occasional elsewhere; all seasons. Wastewater ponds. Usually blown in by gulf storms. Lake Somerville, Bexar and Travis counties. Austin, Bexar, Lake Som erville Franklin's Gull, Larus pipixcan: Common spring migrant and rare fall migrant; occasional in winter. Croplands, perennial waterways. Throughout. Often migrates in large numbers. Austin, Bastrop,

72

Wildlife of South Central Texas Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Little Gull, Larus minutus: Accidental in spring and winter. Perennial waterways. Granger Lake. Austin Bonaparte's Gull, Larus philadelphia: Uncommon fall and winter resi­ dent. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds. Lake Buchanan, Lake Somerville. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Som erville, Palm etto Mew Gull, Larus canus: Accidental in winter. Calaveras Lake, Bexar County. Ring-billed Gull, Larus delawarensis: Abundant spring, fall, and winter resident; rare in summer. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds, landfill sites. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Som erville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Pedernales Falls, P alm etto

California Gull, Larus californicus: Accidental in spring. Bexar County (Calaveras Lake). Herring Gull, Larus argentatus: Uncommon winter resident; rare in spring and fall. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds. Lake Buchanan, Lake Somerville. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Palm etto

Thayer's Gull, Larus thayeri: Hypothetical. Braunig Lake. B exar Glaucous Gull, Larus hyperboreus: Accidental in winter. Wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds. Austin Black-legged Kittiwake, Rissa thdactyla: Accidental in fall and winter. Perennial waterways. Lake Buchanan, Bexar County. Austin, Bexar, Burnet

Sabine's Gull, Xema sabini: Accidental in fall. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds. Granger Lake, Hornsby Bend Ponds, Mitchell Lake. Austin Subfamily STERNINAE: Terns Gull-billed Tern, Sterna nilotica: Formerly recorded. Bexar County (September 1961), Travis County (February 1963). Austin, B exar Caspian Tern, Sterna caspia: Occasional spring visitor,- accidental in fall. Wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Lake Somerville, Bexar and Gonzales counties. Austin, Bexar, Lake Som erville, P alm etto Royal Tern, Sterna maxima: Accidental in summer and fall. Lake Som­ erville, Bexar County. Austin, Bexar, Lake Som erville Sandwich Tern, Sterna sandvicensis: Formerly recorded. Travis County (September 1961). Austin Common Tern, Sterna hirundo: Occasional spring and summer visitor. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Lake Somerville, Bexar County. Austin, Bexar, Lake Som erville

Birds

73

Forster's Tern, Sterna forsteh: Uncommon spring, fall, and winter resi­ dent. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds. Throughout. Lake Buchanan, Lake Somerville. Most likely white tern in the area. Austin, Beil, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, P alm etto

Least Tern, Sterna antillarum: Occasional spring, summer, and winter visitor. Wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Bell, Bexar, Bur­ net, and Gonzales counties. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, P alm etto Sooty Tern, Sterna fuscata: Accidental in summer and fall. Bexar County. Austin, B exar Black Tern, Chlidonias niger: Uncommon spring and fall migrant. Pe­ rennial waterways, wastewater ponds. Throughout. All area lakes. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Lee, Palm etto

Subfamily RYNCHOPINAE: Skimmers Black Skimmer, Rynchops niger: Rare spring, summer, and fall visitor. Wastewater ponds, perennial waterways. Lake Somerville, Bexar County. Austin, Bexar, Lake Som erville

Order COLUMBIFORMES: Sandgrouse, Pigeons, and Doves Suborder COLUMBAE: Pigeons and Doves Family COLUMBIDAE: Pigeons and Doves Rock Dove, Columba livia**: Abundant permanent resident. Cultural areas. Throughout. Introduced from Eurasia. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

White-winged Dove, Zenaida asiatica*: Uncommon permanent resi­ dent. Cultural areas. Towns and cities. Now nests in Austin. Ap­ parently extending its range northward and increasing. Austin, Bell, Bexar, McKinney Falls, P alm etto

Mourning Dove, Zenaida macroura*: Abundant permanent resident. All habitats. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, En­ chanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P al­ m etto, Pedernales Falls

Passenger Pigeon, Ectopistes migratorius: Extinct. Travis County (i878) and Lee County (1886). Austin Inca Dove, Columbina inca*: Common permanent resident. Cultural areas. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

74

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Common Ground-Dove (Ground Dove), Columbina passerina*: Uncom­ mon permanent resident. Range and pastures. Throughout. Bexar and Gonzales counties; rare northward. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, P alm etto, Pedernales Falls

Order PSITTACIFORMES: Parrots and Allies Family PSITTACIDAE: Lories, Parakeets, Macaws, and Parrots Subfamily ARINAE: New World Parakeets, Macaws, and Parrots Monk Parakeet, Myiopsitta monachus**: Rare permanent resident. Cultural areas. Nests locally in Austin near Lamar Boulevard and Town Lake. Introduced from southern South America. Austin

Order CUCULIFORMES: Cuckoos and Allies Family CUCULIDAE: Cuckoos, Roadrunners, and Anis Subfamily COCCYZINAE: New World Cuckoos Black-billed Cuckoo, Coccyzus erythropthalmus: Rare spring and fall migrant. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Capi­ tol grounds. Austin, Bell, Bexar, G uadalupe River, Lake Som erville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Coccyzus americanusx\ Common spring and summer resident; uncommon in fall. Cultural areas, riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Som erville, Lee, M cK in­ ney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Subfamily NEOMORPHINAE: Ground-Cuckoos and Roadrunners Greater Roadrunner (Roadrunner), Geococcyx californianus*: Uncom­ mon permanent resident. Range and pastures. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Subfamily CROTOPHAGINAE: Anis Groove-billed Ani, Crotophaga sulcirostris*: Occasional spring, sum­ mer, and fall visitor. Intermittent streams. McKinney Falls State Park. Nested at Mitchell Lake in 1990. Austin, Bexar, M cKinney Falls

Birds

75

Order STRIGIFORMES: Owls Family TYTONIDAE: Barn Owls Barn Owl (Common Barn-Owl), Tyto a lb a * : Rare permanent resident. Throughout, but rarely seen. Austin, Beii, Bexar, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

Family STRIGIDAE: Typical Owls Eastern Screech-Owl (Screech Owl), Otus asio*: Common permanent resident. Cultural areas, riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Gua­ dalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Western Screech-Owl, Otus kennicottii: Accidental in winter. Bexar County. B exar Great Horned Owl, Bubo virginianus*: Uncommon permanent resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Austin, Bas­ trop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Snowy Owl, Nyctea scandiaca: Formerly recorded. Bexar County (1857) and Travis County (1876). Austin, B exar Burrowing Owl, Speotyto cunicularia: Rare fall and winter resident; oc­ casional in spring. Range and pastures, especially along fence rows. Blackland prairies. Bell, Bexar, Comal, and Travis counties. Austin, Bell, B exar

Barred Owl, Strix varia*: Uncommon permanent resident. Riparian woodlands. Throughout. Buescher State Park, Palmetto State Park. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Long-eared Owl, Asio otus: Accidental in spring, fall, and winter. Wooded uplands. Lake Somerville, Bell, Bexar, and Travis counties. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Lake Som erville Short-eared Owl, Asio flammeus: Rare winter resident; occasional in spring and fall. Range and pastures, especially where Northern Harriers hunt regularly. Throughout. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, En­ chanted Rock, Lake Somerville, McKinney Falls

Northern Saw-whet Owl, Aegolius acadicus: Accidental in winter. Travis County. Austin

76

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Order CAPRIMULGIFORMES: Goatsuckers, Oilbirds, and Allies Family CAPRIMULGIDAE: Goatsuckers Subfamily CHORDEILINAE: Nighthawks Lesser Nighthawk, Chordeiles acutipennis*: Uncommon spring and summer resident. Has nested at Mitchell Lake. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, Bexar and Burnet counties. B exar, Burnet, En­ chanted Rock

Common Nighthawk, Chordeiles minor*: Abundant spring and sum­ mer resident; rare in fall and winter. Range and pastures, cultural areas. Throughout. Austin, B astrop, Beil, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Subfamily CAPRIMULGINAE: Nightjars Pauraque (Common Pauraque), Nyctidromus albicollis: Accidental in spring and fall. Bastrop, Bexar, and Gonzales counties. Austin, Bexar, Palm etto

Common Poorwill (Poorwill), Phalaenoptilus nuttallii*: Uncommon spring, summer, and fall resident; occasional in winter. Wooded uplands, range and pastures. Edwards Plateau. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uada­ lupe River, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Chuck-will's-widow, Caprimulgus carolinensis*: Common spring and summer resident; rare in fall. Riparian woodlands, wooded up­ lands. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Whip-poor-will, Caprimulgus vociferus: Rare spring and fall migrant; accidental in winter and summer. Wooded uplands, riparian wood­ lands. Throughout. Austin, Bexar, G uadalupe River, Lake Som erville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P alm etto

Order APODIFORMES: Swifts and Hummingbirds Family APODIDAE: Swifts Subfamily CHAETURINAE: Chaeturine Swifts Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica*: Abundant spring, summer, and fall resident; accidental in winter. Cultural areas. Throughout

Birds

77

Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Subfamily APODINAE: Apodine Swifts White-throated Swift, Aeronautes saxatalis: Accidental in fall and win­ ter. Bexar and Travis counties. Austin, B exar Family TROCHILIDAE: Hummingbirds Green Violet-ear, Colibrí thalassinus: Accidental in spring and sum­ mer. Hays County. Austin Broad-billed Hummingbird, Cynanthus latirostris: Accidental in spring. Bexar County. B exar Buff-bellied Hummingbird, Amazilia yucatanensis: Accidental, all sea­ sons. Bastrop, Bexar, and Travis counties. Austin, B exar Magnificent Hummingbird, Eugenes fulgens: Formerly recorded. Bexar County. B exar Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Archilochus colubrist\ Uncommon sum­ mer resident; common spring and fall migrant. Throughout. The common nesting hummingbird east of the Balcones Escarpment. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Black-chinned Hummingbird, Archilochus alexandrf: Abundant spring and summer resident; uncommon in fall. Throughout. The com­ mon nesting hummingbird west of the Balcones Escarpment. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, McKin­ ney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Anna's Hummingbird, Calypte anna: Occasional fall and winter visitor. Cultural areas. Most records at feeders. Austin, B exar Costa's Hummingbird, C a ly p t e c o s ta e : Accidental in winter. Hays County. Austin Calliope Hummingbird, Stellula calliope: Accidental in summer. Bexar, Burnet, and Hays counties. Austin, B exar Broad-tailed Hummingbird, Selasphorus platycercus: Occasional, all seasons. Cultural areas. Most records at feeders. Austin, B exar Rufous Hummingbird, Selasphorus rufus: Rare fall and winter resident; occasional in spring and summer. Cultural areas. Mostly west of Balcones Escarpment. Usually seen at feeders. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Palm etto

Allen's Hummingbird, Selasphorus sasin: Accidental in winter. Bexar and Travis counties. Austin, B exar

78

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Order CORACIIFORMES: Kingfishers, Rollers, Hornbills, and Allies Suborder A L C E D IN E S : T odies, M o tm o ts, and K in g fish e rs Superfam ily ALCED IN O ID EA: Kingfishers

Family ALCEDINIDAE: Kingfishers Subfamily CERYLINAE: Typical Kingfishers Ringed Kingfisher, Ceryle torquata: Occasional fall, winter, and spring visitor. Perennial waterways. Town Lake, Inks Lake State Park. Austin Belted Kingfisher, Ceryle alcyonx\ Common permanent resident. Inter­ mittent waterways, perennial waterways. Throughout. All area streams and lakes. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Green Kingfisher, Chloroceryle americana: Rare permanent resident. Intermittent waterways in undisturbed portions of the Edwards Plateau, especially clear unpolluted streams. Onion Creek, Peder­ nales River. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Guadalupe River, M cKinney Falls, P al­ m etto, Pedernales Falls

Order PICIFORMES: Puffbirds, Toucans, Woodpeckers, and Allies Suborder PICI: Barbets, Woodpeckers, and Allies Family PICIDAE: Woodpeckers and Allies Subfamily PICINAE: Woodpeckers Lewis' Woodpecker, Melanerpes lewis: Accidental in winter. Wooded uplands. Travis County. Austin Red-headed Woodpecker, Melanerpes erythrocephalust\ Uncommon permanent resident. Riparian woodlands. Mostly east of Balcones Escarpment. Colorado River, Bastrop County, Palmetto State Park. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Lake Som erville, Lee, Palm etto

Acorn Woodpecker, Melanerpes formicivorus: Accidental in spring. Wooded uplands. Bastrop and Hays counties. Austin, Bastrop Golden-fronted Woodpecker, Melanerpes aurifronst: Uncommon per­ manent resident. Wooded uplands. Edwards Plateau. Enchanted

Birds

79

Rock State Natural Area, Inks Lake State Park, Pedernales Falls State Park. Most common woodpecker in San Antonio. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Red-bellied Woodpecker, Melanerpes carolinus*: Common permanent resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands, cultural areas. Mostly east of Balcones Escarpment. Bastrop State Park. Most common woodpecker in Austin. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, G uada­ lupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Sphyrapicus varius: Common spring, fall, and winter resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Gua­ dalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Red-naped Sapsucker, Sphyrapicus nuchalis: Accidental in fall and win­ ter. Barton Creek Greenbelt and McKinney Falls State Park in Travis County. Austin Williamson's Sapsucker, Sphyrapicus thyroideus: Accidental in spring, fall, and winter. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. McKinney Falls State Park. Austin, McKinney Falls Ladder-backed Woodpecker, Picoides scalaris*: Common permanent resident. Wooded uplands, range and pastures. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Downy Woodpecker, Picoides pubescenst: Common permanent resi­ dent. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Bastrop State Park, Palmetto State Park/McKinney Falls State Park. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

Hairy Woodpecker, Picoides villosus: Rare winter resident; occasional in spring and summer. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Bas­ trop State Park, Palmetto State Park. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Lee, Palm etto

Northern Flicker (Common Flicker), Colaptes auratus: Common spring, fall, and winter resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded up­ lands. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Pileated Woodpecker, Dryocopus pileatusx\ Rare permanent resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Bastrop and Lee counties, Palmetto State Park. Austin, Bastrop, Bexar, Lake Somerville, Lee, Palm etto

80

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Order PASSERIFORMES: Passerine Birds Suborder TYRANNI: Suboscines Superfamily TYRANNOIDEA: Tyrant Flycatchers and Allies Family TYRANNIDAE: Tyrant Flycatchers Subfamily FLUVICOLINAE: Fluvicoline Flycatchers Olive-sided Flycatcher, Contopus borealis: Uncommon spring and fall migrant. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands. Throughout. Often seen perched at top of a dead snag. Austin, Bastrop, B exar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Som erville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, P al­ m etto, Pedernales Falls

Western Wood-Pewee, Contopus sordidulus: Rare spring and fall visitor. Wooded uplands. Bexar and Travis counties. Austin, B exar Eastern Wood-Pewee, Contopus virenst: Uncommon spring and fall mi­ grant; rare summer resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded up­ lands. Bastrop State Park, Pace Bend Park. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, M cK in­ ney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Yellow-bellied Flycatcher, Empidonax flaviventris: Uncommon spring and fall migrant. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Through­ out. Austin, Bastrop, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Som erville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, P alm etto

Acadian Flycatcher, Empidonax virescens*: Uncommon spring and summer resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Through­ out. Guadalupe River State Park, Hamilton Pool Park, Bastrop State Park. Austin, Bastrop, Bexar, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

"Traill's-type" Flycatcher: Uncommon spring and fall migrant. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Bexar, Hays, Lee, and Travis coun­ ties. The Alder and Willow flycatchers can be identified during migration by voice only, even in the hand; therefore, they are re­ ferred to as "Traill's-type." Among the empidonax flycatchers, second in abundance only to the Least Flycatcher in migration. Austin

Alder Flycatcher, Empidonax alnorum: Uncommon spring and fall mi­ grant. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Bexar, Hays, Lee, and Travis counties. Very likely most migrants are recorded as "Empi­ donax Flycatcher." Austin, Bexar, Lee, M cKinney Falls Willow Flycatcher, Empidonax trailii: Occasional spring migrant; acci­ dental in fall. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands, B Hay$, Lee, and Travis counties. Austin, Bexar, Lee, McKinney Falls

Birds

81

Least Flycatcher, Empidonax minimus: Uncommon spring and fall mi­ grant. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Austin, Bostrop, Beil, Bexar, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, Palm etto

Hammond's Flycatcher, Empidonax hammondii: Accidental in winter. Bastrop County. Austin Cordilleran Flycatcher (Western Flycatcher), Empidonax occidentalis: Accidental in summer. Bexar County. B exar Black Phoebe, Sayornis nigricans: Accidental in spring, fall, and winter. Riparian baregrounds. Bexar, Burnet, and Travis counties. Austin, Bexar, Burnet, Pedernales Falls

Eastern Phoebe, Sayornis phoebet\ Common fall and winter resident; uncommon spring and summer resident. Riparian woodlands, ri­ parian baregrounds. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, P al­ m etto, Pedernales Falls

Say's Phoebe, Sayornis saya: Rare spring and winter resident. Invaded fields, riparian baregrounds. Throughout. Often near cattle corrals. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, G uadalupe River, M cKinney Falls, Palm etto

Vermilion Flycatcher, Pyrocephalus rubinus*: Uncommon spring and summer resident; accidental in winter. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands, range and pastures. Mostly west of Balcones Es­ carpment. Often near ranch water troughs. Austin, Bastrop, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Subfamily TYRANNINAE: Tyrannine Flycatchers Ash-throated Flycatcher, Myiarchus cinerascens*: Uncommon spring and summer resident; rare in winter. Wooded uplands, range and pastures. Edwards Plateau; less frequently in mesquite thickets east of Austin. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Great Crested Flycatcher, Myiarchus crinitust: Common spring and summer resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Brown-crested Flycatcher, Myiarchus tyrannulus*: Uncommon spring and summer resident; occasional in fall. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Bexar and Guadalupe counties. Austin, B exar Great Kiskadee, Pitangus sulphuratus: Accidental in spring and winter.

82

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Mitchell Lake and wastewater treatment plant on San Marcos River east of San Marcos. Austin Couch's Kingbird, Tyrannus couchii: Accidental in spring and winter. Mitchell Lake and Travis County. Winter sight records may be Tropical Kingbird. Austin Cassin's Kingbird, Tyrannus vociferans: Accidental in fall. Bexar and Lee counties. B exar, Lee Western Kingbird, Tyrannus verticalisx\ Common spring and summer resident. Cultural areas, wooded uplands. Throughout. Nests on utility poles in towns,- often seen perched on utility lines. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Som er­ ville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Eastern Kingbird, Tyrannus tyrannust: Common spring and fall mi­ grant; uncommon summer resident; accidental in winter. Range and pastures. Throughout, but usually east of Balcones Escarp­ ment. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Scissor-tailed Flycatcher, Tyrannus forficatust: Abundant spring, summer, and fall resident. Cultural areas, range and pastures. Throughout. Often seen on fences and utility lines. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Som erville, Lee, M cKin­ ney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Fork-tailed Flycatcher, Tyrannus savana: Accidental in spring. Travis County. Austin

Suborder PASSERES: Oscines Family ALAUDIDAE: Larks Horned Lark, Eremophila alpestrisf: Uncommon winter resident; acci­ dental in spring. Croplands, highway easements. Blackland Prairies. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Lake Som erville, M c ­ Kinney Falls, Palm etto

Family HIRUNDINIDAE: Swallows Subfamily HIRUNDININAE: Typical Swallows Purple Martin, Progne subis*: Abundant spring and summer resident. Cultural areas. Throughout where nesting houses provided. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Tree Swallow, Tachycineta b ico lo f: Uncommon spring and fall m i­ grant; occasional in winter. Perennial waterways, wastewater

Birds ponds. Throughout. Hornsby Bend Ponds.

83

Austin, Bastrop, Bell,

Bexar, Lake Somerville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, P alm etto

Violet-green Swallow, Tachycineta thalassina: Occasional spring and fall migrant. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds. Austin, B exar Northern Rough-winged Swallow (Rough-winged Swallow), Stelgidopteryx serripennis*: Uncommon spring and summer resident; com­ mon fall migrant. Riparian baregrounds on steep slopes, highway cuts. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Bank Swallow, Riparia ripariax\ Uncommon spring and fall migrant; rare summer resident. Perennial waterways, wastewater ponds, sand and gravel pits. Has nested in Hays County. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

Cliff Swallow, Hirundo pyrrhonotax\ Abundant spring and summer resi­ dent; common in fall. Cliffs and large highway bridges. Through­ out. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Cave Swallow, Hirundo fulva*: Uncommon spring and summer resi­ dent; rare in fall and winter. Perennial waterways, large highway bridges. Several nest sites in Bexar County. Nest found in Gonza­ les County, also. Apparently expanding its range northward and may become a common spring and summer resident throughout in the near future. Austin, Bexar, Palm etto Barn Swallow, Hirundo rustica*: Abundant spring, summer, and fall resident; occasional in winter. Cultural areas, culverts. Through­ out. Ubiquitous in migration. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, En­ chanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P al­ m etto, Pedernales Falls

Family CORVIDAE: Jays, Magpies, and Crows Steller's Jay, Cyanocitta stelleri: Formerly recorded. Travis County (Sep­ tember 1961). Austin Blue Jay, Cyanocitta chstata*: Common permanent resident. Cultural areas, riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Less common on the Edwards Plateau but seems to be moving west. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P al­ m etto, Pedernales Falls

Green Jay, Cyanocorax yncasf: Accidental, all seasons. Riparian wood­ lands, wooded uplands. Bexar County. B exar

84

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Scrub Jay, A p h e lo c o m a c o e r u le s c e n s x: Uncommon permanent resident. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands. Edwards Plateau. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Pedernales Falls

American Crow (Common Crow), Corvus brachyrhynchosx: Common permanent resident. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands, range and pastures. Throughout, but mostly east of US 281. Austin, Bas­ trop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Chihuahuan Raven (White-necked Raven), Corvus cryptoleucus: Occa­ sional spring and winter visitor. Bell and Hays counties. Austin, Bell

Common Raven, Corvus corax: Uncommon permanent resident. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands, range and pastures. Mostly west of US 281. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, Burnet and Hays counties. Austin, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River Family PARIDAE: Titmice Carolina Chickadee, Parus carolinensisx: Abundant permanent resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Austin, Bas­ trop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Som erville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P alm etto, Pedernales Falls

Tufted Titmouse (Black-crested Titmouse), P a r u s b ic o lo r * : Abundant permanent resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Gua­ dalupe River, Lake Som erville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Family REMIZIDAE: Penduline Tits and Verdins Verdin, Auriparus flavicepsx: Uncommon permanent resident. Wooded uplands, range and pastures. Edwards Plateau. Austin, Bexar, Bur­ net, Enchanted Rock, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Family AEGITHALIDAE: Long-tailed Tits and Bushtits Bushtit, Psaltriparus minimusx: Rare permanent resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Edwards Plateau. Pedernales Falls State Park. Austin, Bexar, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Pedernales Falls

Family SITTIDAE: Nuthatches Subfamily SITTINAE: Typical Nuthatches Red-breasted Nuthatch, Sitta canadensis: Uncommon spring, fall, and winter resident. Erratic. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands.

Birds Throughout. Bastrop State Park.

85

Austin, Bastrop, Bexar, Enchanted

Rock, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P alm etto

White-breasted Nuthatch, Sitta carolinensis: Occasional spring, fall, and winter visitor. Riparian woodlands. Mostly east of Balcones Escarpment. Milam and Williamson counties along San Gabriel River. Austin, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Lee, P alm etto Family CERTHIIDAE: Creepers Subfamily CERTHIINAE: Typical Creepers Brown Creeper, Certhia americana: Uncommon spring, fall, and winter resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Bas­ trop State Park, McKinney Falls State Park, Inks Lake State Park. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Family TROGLODYTIDAE: Wrens Cactus Wren, Campylorhynchus brunneicapillust: Uncommon perma­ nent resident. Wooded uplands, range and pastures. Edwards Pla­ teau, Highlands Lakes area. Austin, Bexar, Burnet, Palm etto, Peder­ nales Falls

Rock Wren, Salpinctes obsoletus*: Rare permanent resident. Upland baregrounds, along cliffs where rock talus has accumulated, rock quarries, rocky embankments (such as those around large earthen dams). Lake Georgetown, Mansfield Dam, Inks Lake State Park. Austin, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Lee, McKinney Falls, Pedernales Falls

Canyon Wren (Canon Wren), Catherpes mexicanust\ Uncommon per­ manent resident Riparian baregrounds, upland baregrounds, along cliffs where rock talus has accumulated. Edwards Plateau. Peder­ nales Falls State Park, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, Gua­ dalupe River State Park. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lee, McKinney Falls, Pedernales Falls

Carolina Wren, Thryothorus ludovicianust: Abundant permanent resi­ dent. Riparian woodlands, cultural areas. Throughout. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Som erville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Bewick's Wren, Thryomanes bewickii*: Abundant permanent resident. Wooded uplands, range and pastures. Throughout. Easier to find west of Balcones Escarpment. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, En­ chanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Pal­ m etto, Pedernales Falls

86

Wildlife of South Central Texas

House Wren, Troglodytes aedon: Uncommon spring, fall, and winter resident; occasional in summer. Riparian woodlands, wooded up­ lands where understory vegetation is dense. Throughout. Austin, B astrop, Beil, B exar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Som er­ ville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Winter Wren, Troglodytes troglodytes: Rare spring, fall, and winter resi­ dent. Riparian woodlands where understory vegetation is dense. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Guadalupe River, M c ­ Kinney Falls, Lake Somerville, Lee, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Sedge Wren (Short-billed Marsh Wren), Cistothorus platensis: Rare spring, fall, and winter resident. Marshes, range and pastures. Mostly east of Balcones Escarpment. Erratic (or overlooked). Austin, Bexar, Lake Som erville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

Marsh Wren (Long-billed Marsh Wren), Cistothorus palustris: Rare spring, fall, and winter resident. Marshes. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Lee, P alm etto

Fam ily M U SCICA PID A E: M uscicapids Subfamily SYLVIINAE: Old World Warblers, Kinglets, and Gnatcatchers Tribe SYLVIINI: Old World Warblers and Kinglets

Golden-crowned Kinglet, Regulus s a tr a p a : Uncommon spring, fall, and winter resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Through­ out. McKinney Falls State Park, Bastrop State Park, Palmetto State Park. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Regulus calendula: Common spring, fall, and winter resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Through­ out. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Tribe POLIOPTILINI: Gnatcatchers

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Polioptila caerulea*: Uncommon summer resi­ dent; common spring and fall migrant; rare in winter. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Bastrop State Park, En­ chanted Rock State Natural Area. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Bur­ net, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Birds

87

Black-tailed Gnatcatcher, Polioptila melanura: Accidental in spring, fall, and winter. Bexar County. B exar Subfamily TURDINAE: Solitaires, Thrushes, and Allies Eastern Bluebird, Sialia sialis*: Common permanent resident. Range and pastures adjacent to wooded uplands. Throughout. More nu­ merous in winter. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Western Bluebird, Sialia mexicana: Formerly recorded. Bexar County (November 1956). Bastrop, B exar Mountain Bluebird, Sialia currucoides: Accidental in winter. Gillespie County. Austin, Bexar, Pedernales Falls Townsend's Solitaire, Myadestes townsendi: Accidental in spring, fall, and winter. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands. Edwards Pla­ teau. Bastrop, Bexar, and Hays counties. Austin, Bastrop, B exar Veery, Catharus fuscescens: Rare spring migrant; accidental in fall and winter. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Aus­ tin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P al­ m etto, Pedernales Falls

Gray-cheeked Thrush, Catharus minimus: Rare spring migrant; acci­ dental in fall and winter. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Capitol grounds. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P alm etto

Swainson's Thrush, Catharus ustulatus: Uncommon spring migrant; rare fall migrant. Riparian woodlands, particularly where mul­ berry trees are in fruit. Throughout. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Peder­ nales Falls

Hermit Thrush, Catharus guttatus: Common spring, fall, and winter resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Wood Thrush, Hylocichla musteline^: Rare summer resident; acciden­ tal in fall and winter. Riparian woodlands. Mostly east of Balcones Escarpment. Bastrop County. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

American Robin, Turdus migratoriusi : Abundant spring, fall, and win­ ter resident; uncommon summer resident. Wooded uplands, ri­ parian woodlands. Throughout in fall, winter, and spring; very

88

Wildlife of South Central Texas localized nester.

Austin, Bastrop, Beil, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock,

G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Varied Thrush, Ixoreus naevius: Hypothetical. Williamson County (February 1985). Austin Family MIMIDAE: Mockingbirds, Thrashers, and Allies Gray Catbird, Dumetella carolinensis: Uncommon spring migrant; rare in late summer and fall; occasional in winter. Riparian wood­ lands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P alm etto

Northern Mockingbird (Mockingbird), Mimus polyglottos*: Abundant permanent resident. Wooded uplands, range and pastures, cultural areas. Throughout. Easily found when driving on any road. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Sage Thrasher, Oreoscoptes montanus: Occasional winter visitor. Range and pastures. Edwards Plateau. Erratic. Austin, Bexar, Bur­ net, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, McKinney Falls

Brown Thrasher, Toxostoma rufumf: Uncommon spring, fall, and win­ ter resident; occasional in summer. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands where there is dense understory vegetation. Throughout. Palmetto State Park. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

Long-billed Thrasher, Toxostoma longirostre*: Uncommon permanent resident. Range and pastures, wooded uplands, riparian wood­ lands. Bexar County. Accidental in Gonzales, Hays, and Travis counties. Austin, Bexar, P alm etto Curve-billed Thrasher, Toxostoma curvirostrex\ Rare permanent resi­ dent. Wooded uplands, range and pastures. Edwards Plateau. High­ land Lakes area, Mitchell Lake. Austin, Bexar, Burnet, Palm etto Family MOTACILLIDAE: Wagtails and Pipits American Pipit (Water Pipit), Anthus rubescens: Common spring, fall, and winter resident. Croplands, intermittent waterways, perennial waterways, wastewater ponds, highway easements. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Lake Som erville, Lee, M c ­ Kinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Sprague's Pipit, Anthus spragueii: Rare spring, fall, and winter resident. Range and pastures, especially in tall grass. Blackland Prairies. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Palm etto

Birds

89

Family BOMBYCILLIDAE: Waxwings Bohemian Waxwing, Bombycilla garrulus: Accidental in spring and winter. Wooded uplands. Bastrop, Bexar, and Travis counties. Austin, B exar

Cedar Waxwing, Bombycilla cedrorum: Abundant spring and winter resident; accidental in summer. Cultural areas, riparian wood­ lands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Family LANIIDAE: Shrikes Subfamily LANIINAE: Typical Shrikes Loggerhead Shrike, Lanius ludovicianus*: Common spring, fall, and winter resident; uncommon summer resident. Invaded fields, range and pastures. Often seen perched on utility wires. Through­ out. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Family STURNIDAE: Starlings and Allies Subfamily STURNINAE: Starlings European Starling (Starling), Sturnus vulgaris**: Abundant permanent resident. Cultural areas, feedlots. Throughout. Introduced from Eurasia. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P alm etto

Family VIREONIDAE: Vireos Subfamily VIREONINAE: Typical Vireos White-eyed Vireo, Vireo griseus*: Common spring, summer, and fall resident; uncommon winter resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet,

En­

chanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P al­ metto, Pedernales Falls

Bell's Vireo, Vireo bellii*: Uncommon spring, summer, and fall resident. Invaded fields, range and pastures, wooded uplands. Mostly west of Balcones Escarpment. Highland Lakes area, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

90

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Black-capped Vireo, V ir e o a t r ic a p i llu s *: Uncommon spring and summer resident; rare fall resident. Wooded uplands, particularly where sumac, shin oak, and small Texas Oak thrive in dense under­ growth. An endangered species decreasing at an alarming rate. Ed­ wards Plateau. Austin, B astrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Lee, Pedernales Falls

Solitary Vireo, Vireo solitarius: Uncommon fall and winter resident; common spring migrant. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, G uadalupe River, Lake Som er­ ville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Yellow-throated Vireo, Vireo flavifrons*: Uncommon summer resident; accidental in late winter. Riparian woodlands. Throughout. En­ chanted Rock State Natural Area, Bastrop State Park. Austin, Bas­ trop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Som erville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Warbling Vireo, Vireo gilvus: Uncommon spring and rare fall migrant. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Capitol grounds. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Som erville, Lee, M cKin­ ney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Philadelphia Vireo, Vireo philadelphicus: Uncommon spring and rare fall migrant. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Capitol grounds. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Red-eyed Vireo, Vireo olivaceusx\ Uncommon spring and summer resi­ dent. Riparian woodlands. Throughout. Palmetto State Park, En­ chanted Rock State Natural Area. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Bur­ net, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Som erville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Yellow-green Vireo, Vireo flavoviridis: Accidental in spring and sum­ mer. Travis County (Webberville Park). Family EMBERIZIDAE: Emberizids Subfamily PARULINAE: Wood-Warblers Blue-winged Warbler, Vermivora pinus: Rare spring and fall migrant. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands. Mostly east of Balcones Es­ carpment. Capitol grounds. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lee, McKinney Falls

Golden-winged Warbler, Vermivora chrysoptera: Rare spring migrant. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands. Throughout. Capitol grounds. Austin, Bastrop, Bexar, Guadalupe River, Lee, M cKinney Falls Tennessee Warbler, Vermivora peregrina: Uncommon spring and rare fall migrant. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout.

Birds Capitol grounds.

91

Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, G uadalupe River,

Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Orange-crowned Warbler, Vermivora celata: Uncommon spring, fall, and winter resident; common spring migrant. Invaded fields, ri­ parian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Som erville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Nashville Warbler, Vermivora ruficapilla: Common spring and fall mi­ grant; rare winter resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Gua­ dalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Northern Parula, Parula americana*: Uncommon spring and summer resident. Riparian woodlands. Palmetto State Park, Buescher State Park. Nests in trees with thick Spanish moss. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P alm etto

Tropical Parula, Parula pitiayumi: Accidental in spring. Travis County. Austin

Yellow Warbler, Dendroica petechiaf: Common spring and uncommon fall migrant; occasional in winter. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Peder­ nales Falls

Chestnut-sided Warbler, Dendroica pensylvanica: Uncommon spring and rare fall migrant; occasional winter visitor. Riparian wood­ lands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Capitol grounds. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Fallst Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Magnolia Warbler, Dendroica magnolia: Common spring and rare fall migrant Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Capi­ tol grounds. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Cape May Warbler, Dendroica tigrina: Accidental in fall, winter, and spring. Palmetto State Park, Bexar and Travis counties. Austin, Bexar, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

Black-throated Blue Warbler, Dendroica caerulescens: Accidental in spring, fall, and winter. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Bexar and Travis counties. Austin, B exar Yellow-rumped Warbler, Dendroica coronata: Abundant spring, fall, and winter resident. Invaded fields, riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. The most common warbler in winter. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Black-throated Gray Warbler, Dendroica nigrescens: Accidental in

92

Wildlife of South Central Texas

spring, fall, and winter. Wooded uplands. Palmetto State Park, Bas­ trop, Bexar, Travis counties. Austin, Bastrop, Bexar, P alm etto Townsend's Warbler, Dendroica townsendi: Accidental in spring and fall. Travis County. Austin, B exar Black-throated Green Warbler, Dendroica virensf : Common spring and uncommon fall migrant; accidental in winter. Riparian wood­ lands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Golden-cheeked Warbler, Dendroica chrysoparia*: Uncommon spring and summer resident. Wooded uplands dominated by stands of mature Ashe Juniper with oaks. An endangered species because of loss of habitat. The sole bird species that nests only in Texas. Ed­ wards Plateau only. Pedernales Falls State Park, Guadalupe River State Park. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, G uadalupe River, Pedernales Falls Blackburnian Warbler, Dendroica fusca: Uncommon spring migrant, accidental in fall. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Through­ out. Capitol grounds. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Yellow-throated Warbler, Dendroica dominica*: Rare summer resident; rare spring and fall migrant; occasional in winter. Riparian wood­ lands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, M cKinney Falls, Palm etto

Grace's Warbler, Dendroica graciae: Accidental in fall. Travis County. Austin

Pine Warbler, Dendroica pinus*: Uncommon permanent resident. Wooded uplands. Nests in Lost Pines of Bastrop County; wanders throughout in winter. Austin, Bastrop, Bexar, Lake Som erville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P alm etto

Prairie Warbler, Dendroica discolor: Occasional, all seasons. Bell, Bexar, and Travis counties. Austin, Bell, B exar Palm Warbler, Dendroica palmarum: Accidental in fall and winter. East of Balcones Escarpment. Palmetto State Park; Bexar, Lee, and Travis counties. Austin, Bexar, Lake Som erville, P alm etto Bay-breasted Warbler, Dendroica castanea: Uncommon spring migrant; occasional in fall. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Through­ out. Capitol grounds. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P alm etto, Pedernales Falls

Blackpoll Warbler, Dendroica striata: Occasional spring migrant. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands. East of Balcones Escarp­ ment. Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, and Travis counties. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, B exar

Cerulean Warbler, Dendroica cerulea: Rare spring migrant; accidental

Birds

93

in fall. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Capitol grounds. Austin, Bastrop, Bexar, G uadalupe River, Lee, McKinney Falls Black-and-white Warbler, Mniotilta varia*: Common spring migrant; uncommon summer resident; rare in fall and winter. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Migrant throughout; nests on Ed­ wards Plateau and in Lost Pines of Bastrop County. Austin, Bas­ trop, Bell, Bexar*, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls} Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

American Redstart, Setophaga ruticilla: Uncommon spring and rare fall migrant. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Capi­ tol grounds. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uada­ lupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

Prothonotary Warbler, Protonotaria citrea*: Uncommon spring and summer resident. Intermittent waterways, perennial waterways. East of Balcones Escarpment. Lake Gonzales. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Lake Somerville, Lee, Palm etto

Worm-eating Warbler, Helmitheros vermivorus: Rare spring and occa­ sional fall migrant. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Austin, Bastrop, Bexar, Lee, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Swainson's Warbler, Limnothlypis swainsonii*: Rare spring and summer resident. Riparian woodlands. Mostly east of Balcones Escarp­ ment. Bastrop County, Lake Somerville. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Lake Somerville, Lee, Palm etto

Ovenbird, Seiurus aurocapillus: Uncommon spring and rare fall mi­ grant; accidental in winter. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Capitol grounds. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Northern Waterthrush, Seiurus noveboracensis: Uncommon spring and rare fall migrant; occasional in winter. Perennial waterways. Edge of flowing streams. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Louisiana Waterthrush, Seiurus motacilla*: Rare spring and summer resident; occasional in winter. Perennial waterways, intermittent waterways. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

Kentucky Warbler, Oporornis formosus*: Uncommon spring and sum­ mer resident. Riparian woodlands. Bastrop County. Austin, Bas­ trop, Bell, Bexar, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Connecticut Warbler, Oporornis agilis: Accidental in spring and fall. Wooded uplands, range and pastures. Bexar, Hays, and Lee counties. Austin, Bexar, Lee Mourning Warbler, Oporornis philadelphia: Uncommon spring and fall

94

Wildlife of South Central Texas migrant. Riparian woodlands; wooded uplands where there is dense understory vegetation. Throughout. Capitol grounds. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

MacGillivray's Warbler, Oporornis tolmiei: Rare spring and fall mi­ grant. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands, range and pastures. Bexar, Hays, Lee, and Travis counties. Austin, Bexar, Lee Common Yellowthroat, Geothlypis trichasf: Uncommon spring and fall migrant; uncommon winter resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands, marshes. Throughout. Capitol grounds. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Som er­ ville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Hooded Warbler, Wilsonia citrina*: Rare spring and summer resident; occasional in fall and winter. Riparian woodlands, wooded up­ lands. Mostly east of Balcones Escarpment. Palmetto State Park, Lost Pines in Bastrop County. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Lake Som ­ erville, Lee, P alm etto

Wilson's Warbler, Wilsonia pusilla: Common spring and fall migrant; occasional in winter. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Gua­ dalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Canada Warbler, Wilsonia canadensis: Uncommon spring and rare fall migrant. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P alm etto

Red-faced Warbler, Cardellina rubrifrons: Accidental in spring. Buescher State Park. Austin, Bastrop Yellow-breasted Chat, Icteria virens*: Uncommon spring and summer resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands, range and pas­ tures. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Enchanted Rock, G uada­ lupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Subfamily THRAUPINAE: Tanagers Tribe THRAUPINI: Typical Tanagers

Hepatic Tanager, Piranga flava: Occasional in spring, fall, and winter. Wooded uplands. Mostly west of Balcones Escarpment. Austin, Bastrop, Bexar, Burnet, P alm etto

Summer Tanager, Piranga rubra*: Uncommon spring, summer, and fall resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. A ustin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Birds

95

Scarlet Tanager, Piranga olivacea: Rare spring and occasional fall mi­ grant. Riparian woodlands. Mostly east of Balcones Escarpment. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Lake Somerville, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

Western Tanager, Piranga ludoviciana: Accidental, all seasons. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands. Bastrop, Bexar, Burnet, and Travis counties. Austin, Bexar, Burnet Subfamily CARDINALINAE: Cardinals, Grosbeaks, and Allies Northern Cardinal (Cardinal), Cardinalis cardinalis*: Abundant perma­ nent resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands, range and pastures, cultural areas. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Pyrrhuloxia, Cardinalis sinuatus: Uncommon fall, winter, and early spring resident; occasional in late spring and summer. Range and pastures. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, McKinney Falls, P alm etto

Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Pheucticus ludovicianus: Uncommon spring and rare fall migrant. Riparian woodlands, particularly where mulberry trees are in fruit. Capitol grounds. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P alm etto

Black-headed Grosbeak, Pheucticus melanocephalus: Rare spring, fall, and winter visitor. Wooded uplands. Often seen at feeders. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lee, Palm etto

Blue Grosbeak, Guiraca caeruleax\ Uncommon spring and summer resi­ dent; rare in fall. Wooded uplands, range and pastures. Through­ out. Pedernales Falls State Park. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River; Lake Som erville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P al­ m etto, Pedernales Falls

Lazuli Bunting, Passerina amoena: Rare spring migrant; accidental in fall and winter. Range and pastures, riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Bexar, Burnet, Lee, and Travis counties. Erratic. Austin, Bexar, Burnet, Lee

Indigo Bunting, Passerina cyanea*: Uncommon spring migrant; rare summer and fall resident. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands, range and pastures. Throughout. Palmetto State Park. Austin, Bas­ trop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Varied Bunting, Passerina versicolor: Formerly recorded. Bexar County (May 1962). B exar Painted Bunting, Passerina ciris*: Common spring and summer resi­

96

Wildlife of South Central Texas dent; uncommon in fall. Wooded uplands, range and pastures. Throughout. Palmetto State Park, Pedernales Falls State Park, En­ chanted Rock State Natural Area. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Bur­ net, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Som erville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Dickcissel, Spiza americana*: Abundant spring and uncommon fall mi­ grant; uncommon summer resident. Range and pastures, culti­ vated fields. Blackland Prairies. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P al­ m etto, Pedernales Falls

Subfamily EMBERIZINAE: Emberizines Olive Sparrow, Anemonops rufivirgatus: Rare, all seasons. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Bexar County. B exar Green-tailed Towhee, Pipilo chlorurus: Rare winter resident; occasional fall visitor. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands, range and pas­ tures. Throughout. Erratic. Austin, Bastrop, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Palm etto

Rufous-sided Towhee, Pipilo erythrophthalmus: Common fall, winter, and spring resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands, range and pastures. Throughout. Often found in dense understory vegetation. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uada­ lupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P alm etto, Pedernales Falls

Canyon Towhee (Brown Towhee), Pipilo fuscus*: Uncommon perma­ nent resident. Wooded uplands, range and pastures. Edwards Pla­ teau. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, Highland Lakes Area. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Pedernales Falls

White-collared Seedeater, Sporophila torqueola: Formerly recorded. Bexar County (December 1966). B exar Cassin's Sparrow, Aimophila cassinii*: Rare summer resident; occa­ sional in fall and winter. Invaded fields, range and pastures. Bexar, Burnet, and Gonzales counties. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Palm etto Rufous-crowned Sparrow, Aimophila ruficeps*: Uncommon permanent resident. Range and pastures, upland baregrounds, especially with rock outcrops. Edwards Plateau, Pedernales Falls State Park. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, M cKinney Falls, Pedernales Falls

American Tree Sparrow, Spizella arbórea: Accidental in winter. Wooded uplands. Guadalupe County. Austin Chipping Sparrow, Spizella passerina*: Common spring, fall, and winter resident; uncommon summer resident. Wooded uplands, particu-

Birds larly adjacent to range and pastures. Throughout.

97

Austin, Bastrop,

Beil, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Clay-colored Sparrow, Spizella pallida: Common spring and uncommon fall migrant; rare in winter. Invaded fields, range and pastures. Throughout. Capitol grounds. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, G uadalupe River, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Brewer's Sparrow, Spizella breweri: Accidental in fall and winter. Bur­ net and Hays counties. Austin, Burnet Field Sparrow, Spizella pusilla*: Common spring, fall, and winter resi­ dent; uncommon summer resident. Wooded uplands, range and pastures. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Peder­ nales Falls

Vesper Sparrow, Pooecetes gramineus: Abundant spring, fall, and winter resident. Range and pastures, brushy fence rows. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Lark Sparrow, Chondestes grammacus*: Common permanent resident. Wooded uplands adjacent to range and pastures, fence rows. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Gua­ dalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Black-throated Sparrow, Amphispiza bilineata*: Uncommon permanent resident. Range and pastures, invaded fields. Edwards Plateau. Highland Lakes area. Austin, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Lark Bunting, Calamospiza melanocorys: Uncommon spring, fall, and winter resident. Erratic. Invaded fields, range and pastures. Ed­ wards Plateau, less often on Blackland Prairies. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lee, P alm etto

Savannah Sparrow, Passerculus sandwichensis: Abundant spring, fall, and winter resident. Range and pastures, fence rows. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Baird's Sparrow, Ammodramus bairdii: Accidental in spring and winter. Bexar County. B exar Grasshopper Sparrow, Ammodramus savannarum*: Rare permanent resident; uncommon spring migrant. Invaded fields, range and pastures. Throughout. Nests in Bastrop and Williamson counties. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Som er­ ville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Henslow's Sparrow, Ammodramus henslowii: Accidental in spring and

98

Wildlife of South Central Texas winter. Bell, Bexar, and Lee counties.

Bell, Bexar, Lake Somerville,

Lee

LeConte's Sparrow, Ammodramus leconteii: Rare spring, fall, and win­ ter resident. Range and pastures with tall grass. Mostly east of Balcones Escarpment. Hays and Travis counties. Austin, B astrop, Bell, Bexar, Lake Somerville, Lee, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Sharp-tailed Sparrow, Ammodramus caudacutus: Rare spring and fall migrant. Lake Somerville. Lake Som erville Fox Sparrow, Passerella iliaca: Uncommon fall and winter resident; rare spring resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Through­ out. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Song Sparrow, Melospiza melodía: Uncommon spring, fall, and winter resident. Riparian woodlands where there is dense understory vegetation, brush piles. Throughout. Lake Walter E. Long, Pal­ metto State Park. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Som erville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Lincoln's Sparrow, Melospiza lincolnii: Uncommon spring, fall, and winter resident. Riparian woodlands, brush piles, wooded uplands with dense understory vegetation. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Swamp Sparrow, Melospiza georgiana: Rare spring, fall, and winter resi­ dent. Riparian woodlands with dense understory vegetation, marshes. Granger Lake, Shipp Lake. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Bur­ net, Lake Somerville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, P alm etto

White-throated Sparrow, Zonotrichia albicollis: Common spring, fall, and winter resident. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands where there is dense understory vegetation. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Som erville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

White-crowned Sparrow, Zonotrichia leucophrys: Common spring, fall, and winter resident. Range and pastures, wooded uplands where there is dense understory vegetation, fence rows, brush piles. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Gua­ dalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Harris' Sparrow, Zonotrichia querula: Common fall and winter resi­ dent; rare spring resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands adjacent to range and pastures, brush piles. Throughout. Often seen with White-crowned Sparrow. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Bur­ net, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Birds

99

Dark-eyed Junco (Slate-colored Junco, Oregon Junco, Gray-headed Junco), Junco hyemalis: Common spring and winter resident; un­ common in fall. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands in dense understory vegetation, brush piles. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

McCown's Longspur, Calcarius mccownii: Uncommon winter resident. Croplands, range and pastures. Blackland Prairies. Bell, William­ son, and Guadalupe counties. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet Lapland Longspur, Calcarius lapponicus: Rare winter resident. Crop­ lands, range and pastures. Blackland Prairies. Austin, Bell, B exar Smith's Longspur, Calcarius pictus: Accidental in winter. Croplands, range and pastures. Blackland Prairies. Austin, B exar Chestnut-collared Longspur, Calcarius ornatus: Uncommon winter resident. Croplands, range and pastures. Blackland Prairies. Bell, Williamson, and Guadalupe counties. Austin, Bell, Bexar, P alm etto Subfamily ICTERINAE: Icterines Tribe DOLICHONYCHINI: Bobolinks

Bobolink, Dolichonyx oryzivorus: Occasional in spring and fall. Crop­ lands, range and pastures. Blackland Prairies. Usually found with migrating Dickcissels. Austin, B exar Tribe AGELAIINI: Blackbirds, Meadowlarks, Grackles, and Cowbirds

Red-winged Blackbird, Agelaius phoeniceus*: Abundant permanent resident. Marshes, perennial waterways, riparian woodlands, small impoundments, wastewater ponds. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P al­ m etto, Pedernales Falls

Eastern Meadowlark, Sturnella magna*: Common permanent resident. Range and pastures. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, P al­ m etto, Pedernales Falls

Western Meadowlark, Sturnella neglecta: Common early spring, fall, and winter resident. Range and pastures, highway easements. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Yellow-headed Blackbird, Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus: Uncom­ mon spring and fall migrant. Croplands, range and pastures, small impoundments. Blackland Prairies. Often seen at feedlots. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Somerville, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

100

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Rusty Blackbird, Euphagus carolinus: Rare winter resident. Riparian woodlands, small impoundments, wastewater ponds. Hornsby Bend Ponds, Bastrop County. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Gua­ dalupe River, Lake Somerville, P alm etto

Brewer's Blackbird, Euphagus cyanocephalus: Common fall and winter resident; uncommon to rare in spring. Croplands, range and pas­ tures. Throughout. Often seen at livestock corrals. Austin, B as­ trop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto

Great-tailed Grackle, Quiscalus mexicanus*: Abundant permanent resi­ dent. Croplands, cultural areas. Throughout. Perhaps the most abundant bird in Austin. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, G uada­ lupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, Palm etto

Common Grackle, Quiscalus quiscula*: Common permanent resident. Croplands, range and pastures, riparian woodlands, wooded up­ lands. Throughout, but mostly east of Balcones Escarpment. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Lake Som erville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, Palm etto

Shiny Cowbird, Molothrus bonariensis: Accidental in Bell County. Col­ lected at Fort Hood, May 23, 1990. Bronzed Cowbird, Molothrus aeneusx\ Uncommon spring, summer, and fall resident. Cultural areas, wooded uplands. Edwards Plateau. Highland Lakes area, Lake Somerville, Bexar and Travis counties. Erratic. Austin, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, G uadalupe River, Lake Som erville Brown-headed Cowbird, Molothrus aterx\ Abundant permanent resi­ dent. Range and pastures, wooded uplands, cultural areas. Throughout. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Gua­ dalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Tribe ICTERINI: Oropéndolas, Caciques, and American Orioles

Orchard Oriole, Icterus spurius*: Uncommon spring and summer resi­ dent. Wooded uplands, particularly areas adjacent to range and pastures. Throughout. Inks Lake State Park, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Gua­ dalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Hooded Oriole, Icterus cucullatus: Rare in spring, summer, and fall. Bexar and Hays counties. Austin, Bastrop, B exar Altamira Oriole (Lichtenstein's Oriole), Icterus gularis: Formerly re­ corded. Bexar County (September 1963). B exar Audubon's Oriole (Black-headed Oriole), Icterus graduacauda: Formerly recorded. Bexar and Travis (April 1964) counties. Austin, B exar

Birds

101

Northern Oriole (Baltimore Oriole, Bullock's Oriole), Icterus galbula*: Both subspecies are uncommon spring and fall migrants; Bullock's is rare summer resident. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands, range and pastures. Baltimore migrates throughout; Bullock's nests on Edwards Plateau. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexor, Burnet, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Scott's Oriole, Icterus parisorum*: Rare spring, summer, and fall resi­ dent. Range and pastures, wooded uplands. Edwards Plateau. Nests in Bexar County. Austin, B exar Family FRINGILLIDAE: Fringilline and Cardueline Finches and Allies Subfamily CARDUELINAE: Cardueline Finches Purple Finch, Carpodacus purpureus: Uncommon winter resident; rare in spring. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Erratic. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, Guadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Cassin's Finch, Carpodacus cassinii: Accidental in winter. Travis County. Austin House Finch, Carpodacus mexicanusx\ Common permanent resident. Wooded uplands, cultural areas. More common west of Balcones Escarpment. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uada­ lupe River, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Red Crossbill, Loxia curvirostra: Accidental in spring, fall, and winter. Bastrop, Bexar, and Travis counties. Austin, Bastrop, B exar Pine Siskin, Carduelis pinus: Uncommon (some years abundant) spring and winter resident; rare in fall. Cultural areas, wooded uplands. Throughout. Often seen with American Goldfinches and at feeders. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Lesser Goldfinch, Carduelis psaltria*: Uncommon permanent resident. Range and pastures, wooded uplands. Edwards Plateau. Pedernales Falls State Park, Highland Lakes area. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pe­ dernales Falls

American Goldfinch, Carduelis tristis: Common spring and winter resi­ dent; uncommon in fall; occasional in summer. Cultural areas, wooded uplands. Throughout. Often seen at feeders. Austin, B as­ trop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, McKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Evening Grosbeak, Coccothraustes vespertinus: Occasional in winter.

102

Wildlife of South Central Texas Bastrop, Burnet, and Travis counties. Erratic.

Austin, Bastrop,

Bexar, Burnet

Family PASSERIDAE: Old World Sparrows House Sparrow, Passer domesticus**: Abundant permanent resident. Cultural areas. Throughout. Introduced from the Old World. Austin, Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Enchanted Rock, G uadalupe River, Lake Somerville, Lee, M cKinney Falls, Palm etto, Pedernales Falls

Addenda

Order PELECANIFORMES: Totipalmate Swimmers Suborder PELECANI: Boobies, Pelicans, Cormorants, and Darters Family SULIDAE: Boobies and Gannets Blue-footed Booby, Sula nebouxii: Accidental summer and fall, June 2 to October 9, 1993 (perhaps longer). Burnet County, Lake Lyndon B. Johnson. The second record for Texas; first was for one day only in Cameron County, Port Isabel (1976).

Order APODIFORMES: Swifts and Hummingbirds Family TROCHILIDAE: Hummingbirds Lucifer Hummingbird, Calothorax lucifer: Accidental. September 5 12, 1993. Hays County, Mountain City Oaks. First documented record for the nineteen county area.

CHAPTER 4

Mammals RICKARD S. T O O M E Y III A N D S. C H R IS T O P H E R CA R A N

THE LIST OF MAMMALS which follows includes eighty-two species, all of which have, may have, or formerly had free-living, reproducing pop­ ulations in South Central Texas. Six of these species (five bats and one rodent) are known to occur in counties adjacent to the area and therefore may be part of the South Central Texas fauna, although their presence is not confirmed. Eight to eleven of the eighty-two species are known from the area historically but have been eliminated from the regional fauna by human activity. Nine or ten of the species listed are introduced. The introduced species are marked with an asterisk (*). There is debate about whether the red fox, Vulpes vulpes, was native and later pen-raised for release for hunting or whether it was introduced and became naturalized. This species is, therefore, marked *?. Important domestic mammals that have not established reproducing feral populations in the area are as fol­ lows: Order Artiodactyla, Family Suidae, hog, Sus scrofa; Family Bovidae, domestic cow, Bos tasurus; domestic sheep, Ovis aries; domestic goat, Capra hircus; also, Order Perissodactyla, Family Equidae, horse, Equus caballus; ass, Equus hemionus. In addition, many other exotic and domesticated species can be found in captivity; no attempt has been made to list these species. The scientific and English names of most species, as well as the se­ quence in which they are listed, follow J. K. Jones et al., Revised Check­ list of North American Mammals North of Mexico, 1991: Occasional pa­ pers of the Museum, no. 146, Texas Tech University (1992). The English names of domestic animals follow Texas Mammals East of the Balcones Fault Zone (D. J. Schmidly, 1983). For each species, the following infor­ mation is provided: (1) current English name; (2) current scientific name; (3) relative abundance in the nineteen-county area; (4) habitat; (5) general distribution within the area; (6) other comments. There are no threat­ ened or endangered mammals among the living fauna of South Central Texas, but five species known from the area in the past are endangered

104

Wildlife of South Central Texas

in their present range, and one extant species is considered threatened. All extant mammals are permanent residents except for the bats, most of which are migratory, emigrating in autumn or winter and returning in spring or summer. A few bat species overwinter in the area and several are year-round residents. Most bats hibernate in winter, and all roost during daylight hours. Habitat descriptions for bats refer to roosting and/ or hibernating sites. See the Selected References for complete list of sources.

Class M AM M ALIA: Mammals Order DIDELPHIMORPHIA: Opossums Family DIDELPHIDAE: Opossums Virginia Opossum, Didelphis virginiana: Abundant. All habitats. Throughout. Thrives in both rural and urban areas.

Order INSECTIVORA: Insectivores Family SORICIDAE: Shrews Least Shrew, Cryptotis parva: Uncommon. Abandoned fields, range and pastures. Difficult to capture; remains sometimes found in owl pellets. Desert Shrew, Notiosorex crawfordi: Uncommon. Range and pastures. In South Central Texas, found only in Bexar County. Remains sometimes found in owl pellets.

Family TALPIDAE: Moles Eastern Mole, Scalopus aquaticus: Uncommon. Cultivated fields,- range and pastures; riparian woodlands, especially where soil is loose, well-drained, loamy, and moist. Throughout, more abundant east.

Order CHIROPTERA: Bats Family MORMOOPIDAE: Mormoopid Bats Ghost-faced Bat, Mormoops megalophylla: Locally common. Caves, cultural areas (tunnels, buildings). In South Central Texas, known

Mammals

105

only from Bexar County Migratory, present in winter (November i to March 15) for hibernation. At northeastern limit of its range. Family VESPERTILIONIDAE: Vespertilionid Bats Cave Myotis, Myotis velifer incautus: Common. Caves, cultural areas (tunnels). Mostly west of the Balcones Escarpment. Year-round resident of area, although some males may emigrate in winter (November 1 to March 15). Hibernates in winter. Eastern Red Bat, Lasiurus borealis: Common. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands, cultural areas (urban trees), and rarely, caves. Throughout, but no records from Hays, Caldwell, Gonzales, or Burleson counties. Generally emigrates in winter, but some may overwinter, particularly in the eastern part of South Central Texas. Hibernates in winter. Hoary Bat, Lasiurus cinereus: Rare. Wooded uplands, riparian wood­ lands. Probably throughout, but records from only a few counties scattered through area. Migratory, present in autumn and spring, but males may remain through summer, and some individuals may overwinter. Hibernates in winter. Northern Yellow Bat, Lasiurus intermedius floridanus: Rare. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands. Mostly east of the Balcones Escarp­ ment; south and east of Williamson and Bell counties. In South Central Texas, known only from Travis, Milam, and Bexar coun­ ties. Distribution and abundance closely approximate that of Spanish moss, Tillandsia usneoides, on which this species typi­ cally roosts. Migratory; present in spring, summer, autumn, and perhaps late winter. Seminole Bat, Lasiurus seminolus: Rare. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands. In South Central Texas, known only from Burleson County, although there is an unverified record from McLennan County, just north of Bell County. Year-round resident, but there are few winter records. Probably does not hibernate. Silver-Haired Bat, Lasionycteris noctivagans: Possible. Riparian wood­ lands, wooded uplands, cultural areas (urban trees and rarely, buildings). Could occur throughout, but there are no records from any of the counties of South Central Texas as here defined. Re­ corded in San Saba County immediately northwest of Burnet County and in Medina County just west of Bexar County. All of South Central Texas is within projected range. Within its known range in Texas, this species is migratory; present in autumn and spring.

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Wildlife of South Central Texas

Eastern Pipistrelle, Pipistrellus subflavus: Uncommon to locally abun­ dant. Caves, wooded uplands, riparian woodlands, cultural areas (urban trees, tunnels, rarely buildings). Probably throughout; but in South Central Texas, not recorded east of counties bisected by Balcones Escarpment or north of Williamson County (species has been recorded east and north of area, however). Probably a yearround resident of area. Hibernates in winter. Big Brown Bat, Eptesicus fuscus (probably E. f. fuscus): Possible (records uncertain). Caves, wooded uplands, cultural areas (urban trees, tunnels, buildings). Known from a single, unverified record in northern Bexar County; there is also a reported occurrence in McLennan County, just north of Bell County. Year-round resident of its known range in northwestern and northeastern Texas. Hi­ bernates in winter. Evening Bat, Nycticeius humeralis: Uncommon to common (abundance increases from west to east). Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands, cultural areas (urban trees, buildings). Throughout, although known in South Central Texas from only scattered records. Prob­ ably a year-round resident, but there are few winter records. Hi­ bernates in winter. Townsend's Big-eared Bat, Plecotus townsendii pallescens: Possible. Caves, cultural areas (tunnels,- rarely, buildings). Known from Kimble County just west of Gillespie County; also, projected range (extrapolated from relatively recent records) includes the western part of Gillespie County. Year-round resident of its known range in western and southwestern Texas and the Pan­ handle. Hibernates in winter. Pallid Bat, Antrozous pallidus pallidus: Possible. Caves, cultural areas (tunnels, buildings), possibly woodlands. Known from Kerr and Kimble counties, just west of Kendall and Gillespie counties; also, projected range (extrapolated from recent records) includes parts of Llano, Gillespie, Kendall, and Bexar counties. Migratory,- pres­ ent in spring, summer, and autumn in its known range in south­ western, western, and south Texas. Family MOLOSSIDAE: Molossid Bats Brazilian Free-tailed Bat, Tadarida brasiliensis mexicanus: Abundant. Caves, cultural areas (bridges, buildings). Throughout, but no rec­ ords from Milam, Burleson, or Fayette counties. Colonial, with several very large colonies in the area. Migratory, present in spring, summer, and autumn.

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Big Free-tailed Bat, Nyctinomops macrotis: Possible (low probability). Caves, cultural areas (buildings). Known from Brazos County just east of Burleson County; also, projected range (broadly interpo­ lated from widely separated records) includes the entire South Central Texas area with the possible exception of Burnet County. Migratory, present in spring, summer, and autumn in its known range in southwestern and southeastern Texas and the Panhandle.

Order XENARTHRA: Xenarthrans Family DASYPODIDAE: Armadillos Nine-banded Armadillo, Dasypus novemcinctus: Common. Range and pastures, wooded uplands, riparian woodlands, cultural areas (oc­ casionally). Throughout.

Order LAGOMORPHA: Lagomorphs Family LEPORIDAE: Hares and Rabbits Swamp Rabbit, Sylvilagus aquaticus: Uncommon or rare. Marshes, ri­ parian woodlands. Mostly east of Balcones Escarpment. Desert Cottontail, Sylvilagus audubonii: Rare. Range and pastures. Llano, Gillespie, and Kendall counties represent the eastern limit of its range. Eastern Cottontail, Sylvilagus floridanus: Abundant. Cultivated fields, range and pastures, riparian woodlands, cultural areas. Throughout. Black-tailed Jackrabbit, Lepus californicus: Common to abundant. Cul­ tivated fields, range and pastures. Throughout. Most abundant in western part of area.

Order RODENTIA: Rodents Family SCIURIDAE: Squirrels Mexican Ground Squirrel, Spermophilus mexicanus: Common to abun­ dant. Riparian woodlands, range and pastures, cultural areas (open parklands). Mostly in the western and southern parts of the area, particularly where soils are sandy. Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel, Spermophilus tridecemlineatus: Pos­ sible. Range and pastures. Known from Colorado County just east of Fayette County; also, projected range (interpolated from widely separated records) includes parts of Fayette, Lee, Burleson, and Milam counties.

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Wildlife of South Central Texas

Rock Squirrel, Spermophilus vahegatus: Common. Wooded uplands, ri­ parian woodlands. Edwards Plateau and westernmost edge of Gulf Coastal Plains in rocky habitats. Black-tailed Prairie Dog, Cynomys ludovicianus: Historic. Range and pastures. Known from Bexar County, but this and all other popu­ lations (if any) in South Central Texas have been extirpated. Eastern Gray Squirrel, Sciurus carolinensis: Rare. Wooded uplands. East of Balcones Escarpment, principally in the Post Oak Savannah. Range and abundance have decreased with clearing of hardwood forests. Eastern Fox Squirrel, Sciurus niger: Abundant. Wooded uplands, ri­ parian woodlands, cultural areas. Throughout. Highly adaptable; thrives in urban areas. Southern Flying Squirrel, Glaucomys volans: Rare. Wooded uplands, ri­ parian woodlands. In South Central Texas, known only from Bas­ trop County, but a record from McLennan County, just north of Bell County, extends the projected range to encompass the north­ eastern part of the area. Family GEOMYIDAE: Pocket Gophers Attwater's Pocket Gopher, Geomys attwateri: Common. Range and pastures (deep, sandy, well-drained soils). East of Balcones Escarpment. Baird's Pocket Gopher, Geomys breviceps: Rare. Riparian areas. Gener­ ally ranges north and east of the Brazos River. In South Central Texas, known only from Lee and Milam counties in proximity to the Brazos River. Shifting river meanders isolated these popula­ tions thereby extending the species range. Llano Pocket Gopher, Geomys texensis: Rare. Range and pastures. Llano and Gillespie counties in deep, sandy soils. Family HETEROMYIDAE: Heteromyids Merriam's Pocket Mouse, Perognathus merriami: Uncommon. Wooded uplands, range and pastures. Most common along and west of the Balcones Escarpment; possibly extending southeastward to Gua­ dalupe and Gonzales counties and the western parts of Caldwell and Bastrop counties. Hispid Pocket Mouse, Chaetodipus hispidus: Abundant. Range and pas­ tures (sandy soils). Throughout. Ord's Kangaroo Rat, Dipodomys ordii: Rare. Range and pastures (sandy soils). Known from Bexar and Gonzales counties.

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Family CASTORIDAE: Beavers American Beaver, Castor canadensis: Uncommon. Perennial water­ ways, small impoundments. Throughout. Almost extirpated, but now increasing. Family MURIDAE: Mice, Rats, and Voles Fulvous Harvest Mouse, Reithrodontomys fulvescens: Abundant. Range and pastures, riparian woodlands. Throughout, but most common in eastern part of the area. Plains Harvest Mouse, Reithrodontomys montanus: Common. Range and pastures, cultural areas (highway rights-of-way). Throughout, particularly in the western part of the area. Texas Mouse, Peromyscus attwateri: Uncommon to locally common. Wooded uplands. Edwards Plateau, especially in areas dominated by juniper. White-footed Mouse, Peromyscus leucopus: Common to abundant. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands. Throughout, but most com­ mon east of Balcones Escarpment. Deer Mouse, Peromyscus maniculatus: Common. Range and pastures. Throughout, but more common on Edwards Plateau. White-ankled Mouse, Peromyscus pectoralis: Common. Range and pas­ tures. Edwards Plateau. Northern Pygmy Mouse, Baiomys taylori: Uncommon to common (dra­ matic seasonal changes in population). Wooded uplands, range and pastures. Throughout; range has expanded greatly during historic times. Hispid Cotton Rat, Sigmodon hispidus: Abundant. Croplands, range and pastures, grassy streamsides. Throughout. Populations fluctu­ ate drastically. White-throated Woodrat, Neotoma albigula: Rare. Arid uplands. In South Central Texas, known only from Llano County, but pro­ jected range encompasses Gillespie County and perhaps includes northwestern Bexar County. Eastern Woodrat, Neotoma floridana: Rare. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Throughout. Southern Plains Woodrat, Neotoma micropus: Uncommon to common. Range and pastures. In South Central Texas, known from Bexar, Guadalupe, and Gonzales counties. Most often found in patches of prickly pear cactus (Opuntia spp.). Norway Rat, Rattus norvegicus*: Common. Cultural areas, marshes. Throughout. Introduced.

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Wildlife of South Central Texas

Black Rat, Rattus rattus*: Abundant. Cultural areas. Throughout. Introduced. House Mouse, Mus musculus*: Abundant. Cultural areas. Throughout. Introduced. Family ERETHIZONTIDAE: New World Porcupines Common Porcupine, Erethizon dorsatum: Rare. Wooded uplands, ri­ parian woodlands. In South Central Texas, known from Gillespie, Kendall, and Bexar counties. Apparently becoming more common and extending its range eastward. Family MYOCASTORIDAE: Myocastorids Nutria, Myocastor coypus*: Uncommon to locally abundant. Perma­ nent waterways, intermittent streams, small impoundments. Throughout. Introduced.

Order CARNIVORA: Carnivores Family CANIDAE: Canids Feral Dog, Canis familiaris*: Common. Cultural areas, range and pas­ tures, wooded uplands. Throughout; free-living populations most common in the eastern part of the area. Introduced. Domestic and feral. Coyote, Canis latrans: Uncommon. Range and pastures, wooded up­ lands. Throughout. Range and abundance reduced historically, but populations may be recovering. Gray Wolf, Canis lupus: Historic. Range and pastures, wooded uplands. Extirpated in the early i8oo's. Endangered throughout its current range. Red Wolf, Canis rufus: Historic. Range and pastures, wooded uplands, riparian woodlands. Extirpated. Interbred with Coyote, Canis la­ trans, between 1890 and 1918. Endangered; total population may be limited to individuals currently maintained in captive breeding programs. Red Fox, Vulpes vulpes*I: Rare. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands. Probably introduced. If native, may have been extirpated locally and later reintroduced from populations outside the area, begin­ ning about 1891. Common Gray Fox, Urocyon cinereoargenteus: Common. Range and pastures, wooded uplands, riparian woodlands, cultural areas (oc­ casionally). Throughout.

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Family URSIDAE: Bears Black Bear, Ursus americanus: Historic. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands. Extirpated. Endangered in Texas. Family PROCYONIDAE: Procyonids Ringtail, Bassariscus astutus: Uncommon to common. Wooded up­ lands, riparian woodlands, cultural areas (occasionally). Through­ out. Possibly increasing in abundance after virtual extirpation from its range. Common Raccoon, Procyon lotor: Abundant. All habitats. Throughout. Family MUSTELIDAE: Mustelids Long-tailed Weasel, Mustela frenata: Rare. Riparian woodlands. Histori­ cally throughout, but now nearly extirpated. Mink, Mustela vison: Rare. Marshes, riparian woodlands, permanent waterways. Historically throughout, primarily east of Balcones Es­ carpment, but now nearly extirpated. American Badger, Taxidea taxus: Rare. Range and pastures, wooded up­ lands. In South Central Texas, known from Bexar, Guadalupe, Gonzales, and Travis counties. Nearly extirpated. Western Spotted Skunk, Spilogale gracilis: Uncommon. Wooded up­ lands, riparian woodlands, range and pastures, cultural areas (occa­ sionally). Southwestern part of the South Central Texas area; known from Bexar, Comal, Blanco, and Llano counties. Eastern Spotted Skunk, Spilogale putorius: Rare. Wooded uplands, ri­ parian woodlands, croplands, cultural areas (farmyards, rural parks). East of Balcones Escarpment; known from Bexar and Hays counties. Striped Skunk, Mephitis mephitis: Abundant. All habitats. Throughout. Common Hog-nosed Skunk, Conepatus mesoleucus: Uncommon. Wooded uplands, croplands, range and pastures. Mostly on Ed­ wards Plateau. Northern River Otter, Lutra canadensis: Probably historic. Permanent waterways, marshes, riparian woodlands. Possibly extant in Burle­ son County. Threatened in Texas. Family FELIDAE: Cats Feral Cat, Felis catus*: Abundant. Cultural areas; occasionally, range and pastures. Throughout. Introduced. Domestic and feral. Mountain Lion, Felis concolor: Rare or historic. Wooded uplands, ri-

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Wildlife of South Central Texas

parian woodlands, caves. Historically throughout, now possibly extirpated, although unconfirmed sightings are still reported from localities throughout South Central Texas. Ocelot, Felis pardalis: Historic. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands, caves. Extirpated. Endangered throughout its current range. Bobcat, Lynx rufus: Uncommon. Riparian woodlands, wooded uplands, range and pastures. Throughout. Population density is low but ap­ pears stable. Jaguar, Panthera onca: Historic. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands, caves. Extirpated. Endangered in Texas.

Order ARTIODACTYLA: Even-toed Ungulates Family DICOTYLIDAE: Peccaries Collared Peccary, Tayassu tajacu: Probably historic. Wooded uplands. Possibly extant in southwestern part of South Central Texas. Family CERVIDAE: Cervids Axis Deer, Cervus axis*: Locally common. Wooded uplands, range and pastures. Mostly west of Balcones Escarpment. Introduced from India. Fallow Deer, Cervus dama*: Locally common. Wooded uplands, range and pastures. Mostly west of Balcones Escarpment. Introduced from Eurasia. Sika Deer, Cervus nippon*: Locally common. Wooded uplands, range and pastures. Mostly west of Balcones Escarpment. Introduced from the Orient. White-tailed Deer, Odocoileus virginianus: Abundant. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands, range and pastures, croplands. Throughout. Family ANTILOCAPRIDAE: Pronghorn Pronghorn, Antilocapra americana: Historic. Range. Mostly west of the Balcones Escarpment, but also known from Bastrop County. Extir­ pated in the late 1800's. Family BOVIDAE: Bovids American Bison, Bos bison: Historic. Range. Throughout, particularly in the western part of South Central Texas. Extirpated in the late i8oo's.

CHAPTER 5

Amphibians and Reptiles NAN HAM PTON

THE ANNOTATED CHECKLIST of the amphibians and reptiles for South Central Texas includes forty-one amphibians and ninety-four rep­ tiles, encompassing all species known to have been recorded in the area. Of these species, four are introduced or possibly introduced. Because most amphibians and reptiles are secretive and have nocturnal habits, one of the most difficult questions to assess concerning amphibians and reptiles is their abundance. For those species that have been extensively studied within the area, e.g., the endangered and threatened species, a measure of the population size is relatively well established. For others, the "best estimate" of abundance within the nineteen-county area has been made using the sources below and personal observations. Habitats given for each species are the preferred habitats, i.e., the places in which they are most likely to be found. Introduced species are marked with an asterisk (*). Species that may have been introduced are denoted by (*?). The order of presentation, for the most part, follows that of James Dixon's Amphibians and Reptiles of Texas (1987). Forms of both the English and scientific names follow that of Standard Common and Cur­ rent Scientific Names (Joseph T. Collins, 1990), with the exception of family names which follow Conant and Collins' Reptiles and Amphib­ ians (1991). The order of elements in each entry is as follows: (1) standard English name; (2) current scientific name; (3) abundance; (4) habitat pref­ erence; (5) general distribution in Texas; (6) recorded occurrences within the nineteen-county area; and (7) notes on unusual behavior or morphol­ ogy, additional English names, and other comments. This list is a revision and expansion of Nan Hampton's "Annotated Checklist of the Amphibians and Reptiles of Travis County, Texas" from Kutac and Caran's A Bird Finding and Naturalist's Guide for the Austin, Texas, Area (1975). The original checklist was reviewed by the late W. Frank Blair, Ph.D., in 1974 and 1975. This current list was reviewed

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Wildlife of South Central Texas

by Michael Ryan, David Hillis, and James Bull, faculty members in the Department of Zoology at the University of Texas; and Paul Chippen­ dale, graduate student in the Department of Zoology. The following pub­ lications were of invaluable assistance: (i) The Snakes of Texas (Alan Tenant, 1984); (2) Snakes of South-Cential Texas (Thomas G. Vermesch and Robert E. Kuntz, 1986); (3) A Field Guide to Reptiles and Amphib­ ians of Texas (Judith M. Garrett and David G. Barker, 1987); (4) Amphib­ ians and Reptiles of Texas (James R. Dixon, 1987); (5) Standard Com­ mon and Current Scientific Names for North American Amphibians and Reptiles (Joseph T. Collins, 1990); and (6) Reptiles and Amphibians: Eastern/Central North America (Roger Conant and Joseph T. Collins, 1991). See the Selected References for complete list of sources.

Class AMPHIBIA: Amphibians Order CAUDATA: Salamanders Family SIRENIDAE: Sirens Western Lesser Siren, Siren intermedia nettingi: Uncommon. Springs and seepage slopes, riparian woodlands. Scattered in eastern third of Texas. Burleson, Fayette, Gonzales, Guadalupe, and Lee counties. Family AMBYSTOMATIDAE: Mole Salamanders Smallmouth Salamander, Ambystoma texanum: Common. Springs and seepage slopes, riparian woodlands. Mostly east of Balcones Es­ carpment. Throughout, except Blanco, Gillespie, Kendall, and Llano counties. Barred Tiger Salamander, Ambystoma tigrinum mavortium*l: Uncom­ mon or rare. Small impoundments. Scattered through western two-thirds of Texas. Burnet County. Probably introduced. Eastern Tiger Salamander, Ambystoma tigrinum tigrinum*!: Uncom­ mon or rare. Small impoundments. Scattered through eastern third of Texas. Bexar and Milam counties. Probably introduced. Family PLETHODONTIDAE: Lungless Salamanders Cascade Caverns Salamander, Eurycea latitans: Rare. Caves. Found only in subterranean waters of Cascade Caverns in Kendall County. Neotenic, with external gills,- completely aquatic and subterranean. May be a hybrid between Texas Salamander, E. neotenes, and Comal Blind Salamander, E. tridentifera. Threatened in Texas.

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115

San Marcos Salamander, Eurycea nana: Generally rare, although abun­ dant locally. Springs and spring pools. Found only in Spring Lake in Hays County. Neotenic, with external gills; completely aquatic. Threatened. Texas Salamander, Eurycea neotenes: Common. Springs and seepage slopes, caves. Restricted to Balcones Escarpment. Bell, Bexar, Blanco, Comal, Gillespie, Hays, Kendall, Travis, and Williamson counties. Neotenic, with external gills; completely aquatic. Likely a species complex; many populations assigned to this spe­ cies may soon be described as new species. Dwarf Salamander, Eurycea quadridigitata: Uncommon. Springs and seepage slopes. Eastern third of Texas. Milam County. Barton Springs Salamander, Eurycea sosorum: Rare. Known only from Barton Springs, Austin, Travis County. Neotenic, with external gills; completely aquatic. Specific name honors citizens' efforts in passing Save Our Springs (SOS) Ordinance in 1992. Under consid­ eration by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to be listed as an endan­ gered species. Comal Blind Salamander, Eurycea tridentifera: Rare. Caves. Known only from Honey Creek Cave and nearby sinkholes in Comal County and from Elm Springs Cave in Bexar County, which ex­ tends into Kendall County. Neotenic, with external gills; com­ pletely aquatic. Threatened in Texas. Western Slimy Salamander, Plethodon albagula: Common. Springs and seepage slopes, riparian woodlands. Balcones Escarpment and east­ ern portion of Edwards Plateau. Bell, Bexar, Blanco, Caldwell, Co­ mal, Guadalupe, Hays, Kendall, Travis, and Williamson counties. Texas Blind Salamander, Typhlomolge rathbuni: Rare. Caves. Known only from Hays County. Neotenic, with external gills; completely aquatic and subterranean. Endangered. Blanco Blind Salamander, Typhlomolge robusta: Rare. Caves. Known only from Hays County but not same locale as Texas Blind Sala­ mander. Neotenic, with external gills; completely aquatic and subterranean. Endangered in Texas. Family SALAMANDRIDAE: Newts Central Newt, Notophthalmus viridescens louisianensis: Rare. Marshes, small impoundments, intermittent streams, perennial waterways, riparian woodlands. Eastern third of Texas. Burleson and Milam counties.

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Wildlife of South Central Texas

Order SALIENTIA: Frogs and Toads Family PELOBATIDAE: Spadefoot Toads Couch's Spadefoot, Scaphiopus couchii: Common. Range and pastures, invaded fields. Western two-thirds of Texas. Throughout, except Blanco, Burleson, Fayette, Gonzales, Guadalupe, Lee, and Milam counties. Hurter's Spadefoot, Scaphiopus holbrookii hurterii: Uncommon. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands. Eastern half of Texas. Bas­ trop, Bexar, Burleson, Caldwell, Fayette, Gonzales, and Lee counties. New Mexico Spadefoot, Spea multiplicata: Rare. Upland baregrounds, range and pastures. Scattered through western third of Texas. Iso­ lated population in Gillespie County. Family LEPTODACTYLIDAE: Tropical Frogs Eastern Barking Frog, Eleutherodactylus augusti latrans: Rare. Wooded uplands, upland baregrounds, springs and seepage slopes, caves; occasionally, cultural areas. Primarily along Balcones Escarpment. Bexar, Comal, Hays, Kendall, Travis, and Williamson counties. Rio Grande Chirping Frog, Syrrhophus cystignathoides campi*: Rare to abundant locally. Small impoundments, cultural areas. Rio Grande Valley and scattered locations throughout southern Texas. Introduced into Bexar County via nursery plants. Cliff Chirping Frog, Syrrhophus marnockii: Common. Springs and seep­ age slopes, wooded uplands, riparian woodlands (in canyons). Bal­ cones Escarpment and southern Edwards Plateau. Bell, Bexar, Blanco, Burnet, Comal, Hays, Kendall, Travis, and Williamson counties. Family HYLIDAE: Treefrogs and Allies Blanchard's Cricket Frog, Acris crepitans blanchardi: Abundant. Small impoundments, intermittent streams, riparian baregrounds. State­ wide. Throughout. Cope's Gray Treefrog, Hyla chrysocelis: Common. Riparian woodlands. Primarily eastern half of Texas. Apparently throughout, except Bell, Blanco, and Lee counties. Distinguished from H. versicolor only on the basis of chromosome studies and voice. Ranges and habitats of these species apparently overlap. Green Treefrog, Hyla cinerea: Common. Riparian woodlands, marshes.

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Eastern and southern Texas. Throughout, except Bell, Blanco, Fay­ ette, Gillespie, Kendall, Lee, and Milam counties. Gray Treefrog, Hyla versicolor: Common. Riparian woodlands. Gener­ ally in eastern half of Texas. Apparently throughout, except Bell, Blanco, and Lee counties. Distinguished from H. chrysocelis only on the basis of chromosome studies and voice. Ranges and habi­ tats of these species apparently overlap. Northern Spring Peeper, Pseudacris crucifer crucifer: Uncommon. Ri­ parian woodlands, marshes, intermittent streams. Eastern Texas. Burleson and Lee counties. Inconspicuous except during breeding season. Spotted Chorus Frog, Pseudacris clarkii: Common. Small impound­ ments, marshes, intermittent streams. Central third of Texas. Throughout, except Blanco, Guadalupe, and Lee counties. Incon­ spicuous except during breeding season. Stecker's Chorus Frog, Pseudacris streckeri streckeri: Common. All habitats. Eastern half of Texas. Throughout, except Blanco, Fay­ ette, Guadalupe, and Kendall counties. Upland Chorus Frog, Pseudacris feriarum feriarum: Uncommon. Small impoundments, marshes, intermittent streams. Eastern third of Texas. Bastrop, Burleson, Hays, Lee, Milam, and Travis counties. Family BUFONIDAE: Toads Eastern Green Toad, Bufo debilis debilis: Common. Upland baregrounds, range and pastures, invaded fields. Central third of Texas. Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Comal, Gillespie, Gonzales, Hays, Travis, and Williamson counties. Houston Toad, Bufo houstonensis: Rare. Upland baregrounds, range and pastures, invaded fields. Populations known from only four counties statewide: Bastrop, Burleson, Colorado, and Harris. Endangered. Red-spotted Toad, Bufo punctatus: Common. Upland baregrounds, range and pastures, springs and seepage slopes. Western half of Texas. Bell, Bexar, Blanco, Burnet, Comal, Gillespie, Hays, Ken­ dall, Llano, Travis, and Williamson counties. Texas Toad, Bufo speciosus: Common. Range and pastures, croplands, invaded fields. Western two-thirds of Texas. Bastrop, Bexar, Bur­ net, Caldwell, Comal, Fayette, Gonzales, Hays, Kendall, and Travis counties. Gulf Coast Toad, Bufo valliceps valliceps: Abundant. All habitats.

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Southeastern half of Texas. Throughout. The most commonly encountered toad in the area. Woodhouse's Toad, Bufo woodhousii woodhousii: Uncommon. All habitats. Northeastern half of Texas. Throughout.

Family RANIDAE: True Frogs Southern Crawfish Frog, Rana areolata areolata: Uncommon or rare. Intermittent streams, small impoundments. Eastern third of Texas. Burleson County. Often found in, but not restricted to, abandoned crawfish holes. Rio Grande Frog, Rana berlandieri: Abundant. Small impoundments, intermittent streams, riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Cen­ tral and southwestern Texas. Throughout, except Burleson, Fay­ ette, Lee, and Milam counties. This species and R. utricularia are not separable on the basis of external morphology. Earlier records may have referred one or both of these species to R. pipiens, which is also inseparable, except by chromosome study, but which does not occur in the area. Bullfrog, Rana catesbeiana: Common. Permanent waterways, small im­ poundments. Statewide. Throughout, except Blanco County. Bronze Frog, Rana clamitans clamitans: Uncommon or rare. Small im­ poundments, intermittent streams, riparian woodlands. Eastern third of Texas. Bastrop, Burleson, and Williamson counties. Pickerel Frog, Rana palustris: Uncommon or rare. Small impound­ ments, intermittent streams, riparian woodlands, wooded up­ lands. Eastern third of Texas. Burleson County. Southern Leopard Frog, Rana utricularia utricularia: Abundant. Small impoundments, intermittent streams, riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Eastern half of Texas. Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burle­ son, Fayette, Gonzales, Guadalupe, Kendall, Lee, Milam, and Travis counties. See comments regarding Rio Grande Frog, R. berlandieri.

Family MICROHYLIDAE: Narrowmouth Toads Eastern Narrowmouth Toad, Gastrophryne carolinensis: Uncommon. Marshes, range and pastures, upland baregrounds, riparian bare­ grounds. Eastern third of Texas. Bastrop, Burleson, Comal, Gonza­ les, Milam, Travis, and Williamson counties.

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Great Plains Narrowmouth Toad, Gastrophryne olivacea: Common. Marshes, range and pastures, upland baregrounds, riparian bare­ grounds. Southern two-thirds of Texas. Throughout, except Blanco and Guadalupe counties.

Class REPTILIA: Reptiles Order CROCODILIA: Crocodilians Family ALLIGATORIDAE: Alligators American Alligator, Alligator mississippiensis: Rare. Permanent water­ ways, small impoundments. Southeastern third of Texas. Recent records from Bastrop, Bexar, Burleson, Fayette, Hays, Lee, Milam, Travis, and Williamson counties, but throughout historically. Some recent records are possibly abandoned pets. Increasing in abundance and reoccupying part of its historic range. Resembles Spectacled Caiman, Caiman crocodilus, which was formerly in­ troduced as a pet and may occasionally be encountered through escape or release. There are, however, no known free-living, repro­ ducing populations of Spectacled Caiman in the area.

Order TESTUDINES: Turtles Family CHELYDRIDAE: Snapping Turtles Common Snapping Turtle, Chelydra serpentina serpentina: Common. Permanent waterways, small impoundments. Eastern half of Texas with isolated populations elsewhere. Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burleson, Burnet, Fayette, Hays, Kendall, Travis, and Williamson counties. Seldom basks.

Family KINOSTERNIDAE: Musk and Mud Turtles Yellow Mud Turtle, Kinosternon flavescens flavescens: Common. Per­ manent waterways, small impoundments, intermittent streams. Primarily western two-thirds of Texas. Throughout, except for Burleson, Fayette, and Lee counties. Mississippi Mud Turtle, Kinosternon subrubrum hippocrepis: Uncom­ mon or rare. Permanent waterways, small impoundments. Eastern

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half of Texas. Throughout, except for Blanco, Burnet, Caldwell, Guadalupe, Kendall, and Llano counties. Seldom basks. Razorback Musk Turtle, Sternotherus carinatus: Uncommon or rare. Permanent waterways, small impoundments. Scattered through northeastern Texas. Bell and Milam counties. Basks more fre­ quently than do other musk turtles. Common Musk Turtle, Sternotherus odoratus: Abundant or common. Permanent waterways (reservoirs), small impoundments, marshes. Central and eastern Texas. Throughout, except Bastrop, Bell, Bur­ leson, Caldwell, and Fayette counties. Widely but informally known as "stinkpot turtle" because of its strong musky odor. Family EMYDIDAE: Box and Water Turtles Western Chicken Turtle, Deirochelys reticularia miaria: Uncommon or rare. Permanent waterways, small impoundments. Primarily east­ ern Texas. Lee and Williamson counties. Once sold in fish mar­ kets in the South for food. Often walks about on land. Cagle's Map Turtle, Graptemys caglei: Uncommon or rare. Permanent waterways. Restricted to San Antonio-Guadalupe River basins. Bexar, Gonzales, Hays, and Kendall counties. Texas Map Turtle, Graptemys versa: Uncommon. Permanent water­ ways. Restricted to central Colorado River basin in Texas. Bastrop, Blanco, Burnet, Hays, Llano, and Travis counties. Texas River Cooter, Pseudemys texana: Common. Permanent water­ ways, small impoundments. Scattered statewide. Throughout ex­ cept Bell, Burleson, Caldwell, Fayette, Guadalupe, Lee, and Milam counties. Three-toed Box Turtle, Terrapene Carolina triunguis: Uncommon. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands. Eastern Texas. Throughout, except Blanco, Burnet, Caldwell, Gillespie, Kendall, and William­ son counties. Also called "eastern box turtle." Sometimes has four toes on each hind foot but typically has three. Ornate Box Turtle, Terrapene ornata ornata: Common. Upland bare­ grounds, upland woodlands. Statewide. Throughout except Guada­ lupe and Kendall counties. Also called "western box turtle." Red-eared Slider, Trachemys scripta elegans: Abundant. Permanent waterways. Statewide. Throughout, except Lee and Williamson counties. Often basks on logs or other objects in water. Young of this species commonly sold as pets.

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Family TESTUDINIDAE: Gopher Tortoises Texas Tortoise, Gopherus berlandieri: Rare. Upland baregrounds. Scat­ tered through southern Texas. Bexar and Guadalupe counties. Threatened in Texas. Family TRIONYCHAIDAE: Softshell Turtles Midland Smooth Softshell, Apalone mutica mutica: Uncommon or rare. Permanent waterways. Discontinuous across eastern twothirds of Texas. Milam County. Guadalupe Spiny Softshell, Apalone spinifera guadalupensis: Common. Permanent waterways. Southern half of Texas. Throughout, ex­ cept Bell, Burleson, Caldwell, Lee, Milam, and Williamson counties. Pallid Spiny Softshell, Apalone spinifera pallida: Uncommon. Perma­ nent waterways. Northern half of Texas. Bell, Burleson, Milam, and Williamson counties.

Order SQUAMATA: Lizards and Snakes Suborder LACERTILIA: Lizards Family GEKKONIDAE: Geckos Texas Banded Gecko, Coleonyx brevis: Uncommon. Upland bare­ grounds. Southwestern Texas. Bexar County. Only native gecko with functional eyelids. Mediterranean Gecko, Hemidactylus turcicus *: Uncommon to locally abundant. Cultural areas. Scattered localities throughout southern Texas. Bexar, Fayette, Gonzales, Hays, Lee, and Travis counties, increasing in range and abundance. Only lizard in area with a voice. Introduced. Family POLYCHRIDAE: Anoles Green Anole, Anolis carolinensis: Abundant. Cultural areas, riparian woodlands, wooded uplands. Eastern half of Texas. Throughout except Bell, Burnet, Gillespie, and Llano counties. Commonly but improperly called "chameleon" because this species is capable of limited color changes. Males are particularly prone to change col­ ors during territorial posturing and combat.

122

Wildlife of South Central Texas Fam ily CRO TA PH YTIDA E: Collared and Leopard Lizards

Eastern Collared Lizard, Crotaphytus collaris collaris: Common. Up­ land baregrounds. Northwestern two-thirds of Texas. Throughout except Caldwell, Fayette, Gonzales, Guadalupe, Lee, and Milam counties. Often runs on hind legs. Also called "mountain boomer," although voiceless. Family PHRYNOSOMATIDAE: Earless, Spiny, Tree, Side-blotched, and Horned Lizards Texas Earless Lizard, Cophosaurus texanus texanus: Common. Upland baregrounds, riparian baregrounds. Most of the western half of Texas. Throughout, except Bastrop, Burleson, Caldwell, Guada­ lupe, Lee, and Milam counties. Plateau Earless Lizard, Holbrookia lacerata lacerata: Uncommon. Up­ land baregrounds. Restricted to Edwards Plateau in Texas. Blanco, Comal, Gillespie, Hays, Kendall, and Travis counties. Southern Earless Lizard, Holbrookia lacerata subcaudalis: Uncommon or rare. Croplands, range and pastures. Southern Texas. Bastrop and Bexar counties. Eastern Earless Lizard, Holbrookia maculata perspicua: Uncommon. Croplands, range and pastures, upland baregrounds. North central Texas. Bell, Burnet, and Milam counties. Keeled Earless Lizard, Holbrookia propinqua propinqua: Uncommon. Croplands, range and pastures. Southern Texas. Bexar, Gonzales, Guadalupe, and Hays counties. Texas Horned Lizard, Phrynosoma cornutum: Uncommon or rare. Range and pastures, upland baregrounds. Statewide. Throughout except Caldwell County. Commonly but improperly called "horned toad." Formerly sold as pets, now protected in Texas. Threatened in Texas. Texas Spiny Lizard, Sceloporus olivaceus: Abundant. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands, cultural areas, invaded fields. Central third of Texas. Throughout except Burleson County. Also called "rusty lizard." Crevice Spiny Lizard, Sceloporus poinsettii poinsettii: Uncommon. Up­ land baregrounds. Western and central Texas. Bexar, Blanco, Bur­ net, Comal, Gillespie, Kendall, and Llano counties. Southern Prairie Lizard, Sceloporus undulatus consobrinus: Common. Upland baregrounds. Western two-thirds of Texas. Throughout, except Fayette and Gonzales counties. Northern Fence Lizard, Sceloporus undulatus hyacinthinus: Uncom-

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mon. All habitats. Eastern third of Texas. Fayette and Gonzales counties. Rosebelly Lizard, Sceloporus variabilis marmoratus: Uncommon. All habitats. Southern Texas. Bexar, Comal, Guadalupe, and Hays counties. Eastern Tree Lizard, Urosaurus ornatus ornatus: Common. All habi­ tats. Central and southwestern Texas. Throughout, except Bell, Burleson, Caldwell, Fayette, Gonzales, Lee, and Milam counties. Family SCINCIDAE: Skinks Five-lined Skink, Eumeces fasciatus: Rare. Range and pastures, wooded uplands, invaded fields. Eastern third of Texas. Burleson County. Across most of its range, this species is essentially grounddwelling, but in Texas it is almost exclusively arboreal. Broadhead Skink, Eumeces laticeps: Rare. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands, invaded fields. Eastern Texas. Fayette and Williamson counties. Great Plains Skink, Eumeces obsoletus: Uncommon. Range and pas­ tures, upland baregrounds. Western two-thirds of Texas. Bexar, Blanco, Burnet, Gillespie, Milam, and Travis counties. Southern Prairie Skink, Eumeces septentrionalis obtusirostris: Rare. Range and pastures, upland baregrounds, riparian baregrounds. Scattered through eastern Texas and central Texas Gulf Coast. Bexar, Burleson, Gonzales, Lee, and Milam counties. Short-lined Skink, Eumeces tetragrammus: Common. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands, upland baregrounds, range and pastures. Cen­ tral and southwestern Texas. Bell, Bexar, Blanco, Burnet, Comal, Gillespie, Hays, Kendall, Llano, Travis, and Williamson counties. Ground Skink, Scincella lateralis: Abundant. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands. Eastern two-thirds of Texas. Throughout, except Cald­ well County. Family TEIIDAE: Whiptails Texas Spotted Whiptail, Cnemidophorus gularis gularis: Common. Up­ land baregrounds, range and pastures. Western two-thirds of Texas. Throughout. Six-lined Racerunner, Cnemidophorus sexlineatus sexlineatus: Com­ mon. Upland baregrounds, range and pastures, invaded fields, ri­ parian baregrounds. Eastern two-thirds of Texas. Throughout, ex­ cept Blanco, Burnet, Fayette, and Kendall counties.

124

Wildlife of South Central Texas Family ANGUIDAE: Glass and Alligator Lizards

Texas Alligator Lizard, Gerrhonotus liocephalus infernales: Uncom­ mon. Upland baregrounds, wooded uplands. Principally Edwards Plateau and Big Bend area. Throughout, except Bastrop, Bell, Bur­ leson, Caldwell, Gonzales, Guadalupe, Lee, and Milam counties. Western Slender Glass Lizard, Ophisaurus attenuatus attenuatus: Un­ common or rare. Range and pastures, upland baregrounds, invaded fields. Eastern half of Texas. Bexar, Burleson, Burnet, Gonzales, Hays, Kendall, Lee, Travis, and Williamson counties. Legless. Commonly but improperly called "joint snake."

Suborder SERPENTES: Snakes Family LEPTOTYPHLOPIDAE: Blind Snakes Plains Blind Snake, Leptotyphlops dulcis dulcis: Common. Upland bare­ grounds, range and pastures, cultural areas, wooded uplands. Cen­ tral third of Texas. Throughout, except Bastrop, Burleson, Cald­ well, and Guadalupe counties. Generally subterranean. Family COLUBRIDAE: Colubrids Texas Glossy Snake, Arizona elegans arenicola: Uncommon. Crop­ lands, wooded uplands, upland baregrounds, range and pastures. Southern third of Texas with scattered records in eastern Texas. Bastrop, Bexar, Burleson, Caldwell, Comal, Fayette, Gonzales, Hays, Lee, Milam, and Travis counties. Frequently, but not exclu­ sively, subterranean. Eastern Yellowbelly Racer, Coluber constrictor flaviventris: Common. Croplands, invaded fields, range and pastures, wooded uplands. Central and eastern Texas. Throughout, except Blanco, Gillespie, Lee, and Llano counties. Not a true constrictor, despite its spe­ cific name. Prairie Ringneck Snake, Diadophus punctatus arnyi: Rare or uncom­ mon. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands, invaded fields, cultural areas. Scattered through northern two-thirds of Texas. Bexar, Blanco, Burnet, Gillespie, Hays, Kendall, Llano, Travis, and Wil­ liamson counties. Secretive, often subterranean. Texas Indigo Snake, Drymarchon corais erebennus: Uncommon or rare. Riparian woodlands, range and pastures. Southern Texas. Bexar County. The largest snake found in the area. Prey includes poison­ ous snakes. Threatened in Texas. Great Plains Rat Snake, Elaphe guttata emoryi: Common. Upland bare-

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grounds, wooded uplands, croplands, invaded fields, range and pas­ tures. Statewide. Throughout, except Fayette and Lee counties. Texas Rat Snake, Elaphe obsoleta lindheimerii: Common. All habitats. Primarily eastern two-thirds of Texas with scattered records else­ where. Throughout. Also called "chicken snake." Aggressive but nonpoisonous. Probably the most abundant large snake across most of its range. Western Mud Snake, Farancia abacura reinwardtii: Rare. Marshes, small impoundments. Eastern third of Texas. Burleson County. Western Hooknose Snake, Gyalopion canum: Rare. Upland bare­ grounds, range and pastures. Western and west-central Texas. Gil­ lespie County. Rear-fanged and mildly venomous but not danger­ ous to humans. Dusty Hognose Snake, Heterodon nasicus gloydi: Uncommon or rare. Upland baregrounds, range and pastures. Scattered through central third of Texas. Isolated populations in Bexar, Comal, and Hays counties. Rear-fanged and mildly venomous but not dangerous to humans. Eastern Hognose Snake, Heterodon platirhinos: Common. All habitats. Eastern half of Texas. Throughout, except Caldwell County. Rearfanged and mildly venomous but not harmful to humans. Com­ monly but improperly called "puff adder" or "spreading adder" because it hisses and spreads its neck in defense; plays dead. Texas Night Snake, Hypsiglena torquata jani: Common, but secretive. Upland baregrounds, range and pastures. Western two-thirds of Texas. Bexar, Burnet, Caldwell, Comal, Hays, Kendall, and Llano counties. Rear-fanged and mildly venomous but not dangerous to humans. Vertically elliptical pupil. Prairie Kingsnake, Lampropeltis calligaster calligaster: Uncommon. Wooded uplands, range and pastures, invaded fields. Scattered through eastern half of Texas. Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Burleson, Co­ mal, Fayette, Hays, Milam, Travis, and Williamson counties. A constrictor preying on snakes and lizards. Immune to venom of native poisonous snakes. Speckled Kingsnake, Lampropeltis getula holbrooki: Uncommon or rare. All habitats. Eastern third of Texas. Intergrades with Desert Kingsnake, L. g. splendida, in the east-central portion of Texas,* zone of intergradation includes Bastrop, Bell, Burleson, Burnet, Comal, Fayette, Gonzales, Guadalupe, Hays, Travis, and William­ son counties. Constrictor preying on snakes and lizards. Immune to venom of native poisonous snakes. Desert Kingsnake, Lampropeltis getula splendida: Uncommon or rare.

126

Wildlife of South Central Texas

All habitats. Western two-thirds of Texas. Bexar, Kendall, Guada­ lupe, and Gillespie counties. Constrictor preying on snakes and lizards. Immune to venom of native poisonous snakes. See com­ ments regarding Speckled Kingsnake, L. g. holbrooki. Louisiana Milk Snake, Lampropeltis triangulum amaura: Uncommon or rare. All habitats. Sparsely scattered through eastern Texas. Bell, Burleson, Comal, and Travis counties. Constrictor preying on snakes and lizards. Immune to venom of native poisonous snakes. Colors and pattern mimic Texas Coral Snake, Micrurus fulvius tener. Mexican Milk Snake, Lampropeltis triangulum annulata: Uncommon. All habitats. Scattered throughout eastern Texas. Bexar, Comal, Gillespie, and Kendall counties. Constrictor preying on snakes and lizards. Immune to native poisonous snakes. Colors and pat­ tern mimic Texas Coral Snake, Micrurus fulvius tener. Western Coachwhip, Masticophis flagellum testaceus: Common. Range and pastures, upland baregrounds, invaded fields. Western twothirds of Texas. Throughout. Central Texas Whipsnake, Masticophis taeniatus girardi: Uncommon. Invaded fields, upland baregrounds, wooded uplands. Central and southwestern Texas. Bexar, Blanco, Burnet, Comal, Gillespie, Hays, Kendall, Llano, and Travis counties. Southern edge of range partly overlaps range of Schott's whipsnake, M. t. schotti. Schott's Whipsnake, Masticophis taeniatus schotti: Uncommon or rare. Invaded fields, upland baregrounds, wooded uplands. Southern Texas. Bexar, Comal, Hays, and Travis counties. Northern edge of range partly overlaps range of Central Texas whipsnake, M. t. girardi. Blotched Water Snake, Nerodia erythrogaster transversa: Uncommon. Permanent waterways, intermittent streams, small impound­ ments. Statewide. Throughout. Nonvenomous but often mistaken for the venomous Western Cottonmouth, Agkistrodon piscirorus leucostoma. Broad-banded Water Snake, Nerodia fasciata confluens: Common. Marshes, small impoundments, permanent waterways, inter­ mittent streams. Eastern Texas. Bastrop, Burleson, Caldwell, Gonzales, Lee, Travis, and Williamson counties. Nonvenomous but often mistaken for the venomous Western Cottonmouth, Agkistrodon piscivorus leucostoma. Diamondback Water Snake, Nerodia rhombifera rhombifera: Common. Marshes, small impoundments, permanent waterways, intermit­ tent streams. Eastern two-thirds of Texas. Throughout. Nonven-

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omous but often mistaken for the venomous Western Cottonmouth, Agkistiodon piscivoius leucostoma. Rough Green Snake, Opheodrys aestivus: Common. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands, range and pastures, invaded fields. Eastern two-thirds of Texas. Throughout, except Bastrop, Lee, Milam, and Williamson counties. Bullsnake, Pituophis catenifer sayi: Common. Range and pastures, in­ vaded fields, croplands. Scattered through western two-thirds of Texas. Throughout, except Burleson, Fayette, Gillespie, Lee, and Milam counties. Sometimes mistaken for a rattlesnake. Powerful constrictor. Graham's Crayfish Snake, Regina grahamii: Uncommon or rare. Perma­ nent waterways, small impoundments. Scattered through eastern half of Texas. Bexar, Burleson, and Fayette counties. Texas Longnose Snake, Rhinocheilus lecontei tessellatus: Uncommon. Upland baregrounds, range and pastures. Western two-thirds of Texas. Throughout except Blanco, Fayette, and Kendall counties. Texas Patchnose Snake, Salvadora grahamiae lineata: Uncommon to common. Upland baregrounds, range and pastures, invaded fields. Central Texas. Throughout, except Fayette and Guadalupe coun­ ties. Secretive, subterranean. Mildly venomous but not harmful to humans. Ground Snake, Sonora semiannulata: Common. Upland baregrounds, range and pastures. North central Texas. Bell, Blanco, Burleson, Gillespie, Kendall, and Llano counties. Intergrades with Taylor's ground snake, S. s. taylori in Bexar, Comal, Hays, Travis, and Wil­ liamson counties. Taylor's Ground Snake, Sonora semiannulata taylori: Common. Upland baregrounds, range and pastures. Scattered through southern and eastern Texas. Recognized as a separate subspecies by Dixon (1987), but not by Collins (1990), Conant and Collins (1991), or Vermersch and Kuntz (1986). See comments regarding Ground Snake, S. semiannulata. Texas Brown Snake, Storeha dekayi texana: Common. Riparian wood­ lands, wooded uplands, marshes, cultural areas. Eastern twothirds of Texas. Throughout, except Blanco, Caldwell, Guadalupe, Lee, and Llano counties. Flathead Snake, Tantilla gracilis: Uncommon to common. All habitats. Eastern two-thirds of Texas. Throughout, except Fayette and Lee counties. Rear-fanged and mildly venomous but not harmful to humans. Plains Blackhead Snake, Tantilla nigriceps: Uncommon. Upland bare-

128

Wildlife of South Central Texas

grounds, wooded uplands. Central third of Texas. Bexar, Comal, Hays, Kendall, and Travis counties. Rear-fanged and mildly ven­ omous but not harmful to humans. Eastern Blackneck Garter Snake, Thamnophis cyrtopsis ocellatus: Common. Upland baregrounds, wooded uplands, riparian bare­ grounds, riparian woodlands. Restricted to Edwards Plateau and southwestern Texas. Bell, Bexar, Blanco, Comal, Hays, Kendall, Travis, and Williamson counties. Checkered Garter Snake, Thamnophis marcianus marcianus: Com­ mon. Intermittent streams, riparian baregrounds, riparian wood­ lands. Western two-thirds of Texas. Throughout, except Burleson, Lee, and Milam counties. Gulf Coast Ribbon Snake, Thamnophis proximus orarius: Uncommon. Intermittent streams, small impoundments, riparian woodlands, riparian baregrounds, marshes. Along Gulf Coast in Texas. Zone of intergradation with Redstripe Ribbon Snake, T. p. rubrilineatus, and/or Western Ribbon Snake, T. p. proximus, in Bastrop, Burleson, Caldwell, Fayette, Gonzales, Guadalupe, Lee, and Milam counties. Western Ribbon Snake, Thamnophis proximus proximus: Uncommon. Intermittent streams, small impoundments, riparian woodlands, riparian baregrounds. Northeastern Texas. Zone of intergradation with Redstripe Ribbon Snake, T. p. rubrilineatus, and Gulf Coast Ribbon Snake, T. p. orarius, in Burleson, Lee, and Milam counties. Semiaquatic. Redstripe Ribbon Snake, Thamnophis proximus rubrilineatus: Abun­ dant. Intermittent streams, small impoundments, riparian wood­ lands, riparian baregrounds. Central Texas. Throughout, except Bastrop, Burleson, Caldwell, Fayette, Gonzales, Lee, and Milam counties. See comments regarding Gulf Coast Ribbon Snake, T. p. orarius, and Western Ribbon Snake, T. p. proximus. Texas Garter Snake, Thamnophis sirtalis annectens: Generally uncom­ mon but abundant locally. Intermittent streams, small impound­ ments, riparian woodlands, riparian baregrounds. Sparsely scat­ tered through north central Texas. Bell, Bexar, Blanco, Burnet, Hays, Travis, and Williamson counties. Eastern Garter Snake, Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis: Uncommon or rare. Intermittent streams, small impoundments, riparian woodlands, riparian baregrounds, marshes. Sparsely scattered through eastern half of Texas. Fayette County. Lined Snake, Tropidoclonion lineatum: Locally common. Range and pastures, invaded fields, cultural areas. Primarily eastern central

Amphibians and Reptiles

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Texas. Throughout, except Bastrop, Blanco, Fayette, Gonzales, Kendall, Lee, Llano, and Milam counties. Rough Earth Snake, Virginia striatula: Common. Wooded uplands, ri­ parian woodlands, range and pastures. Eastern half of Texas. Throughout, except Blanco County. Western Earth Snake, Virginia valeriae elegans: Generally uncommon but abundant locally. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands, in­ vaded fields. Sparsely scattered through central and eastern Texas. Bell, Bexar, Burnet, Comal, Kendall, Travis, and Williamson counties. Family ELAPIDAE: Coral Snakes Texas Coral Snake, Micrurus fulvius tener: Common. All habitats. Southern and southeastern Texas. Throughout. Venomous, but small mouth and short fangs make it difficult for Texas Coral Snake to bite humans. Family VIPERIDAE: Vipers Southern Copperhead, Agkistrodon contortrix contortrix: Uncommon. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands, invaded fields. Eastern third of Texas. Intergrades with Broad-banded Copperhead, A. c. laticinctus, in Burleson, Fayette, Lee, and Milam counties. Venom­ ous. Color and pattern variable. Broad-banded Copperhead, Agkistrodon contortrix laticinctus: Com­ mon. Wooded uplands, riparian woodlands, invaded fields. Central third of Texas. Throughout. Venomous. See comments regarding Southern Copperhead, A. c. contortrix. Western Cottonmouth, Agkistrodon piscivorus leucostoma: Uncom­ mon to common locally. Riparian woodlands, permanent water­ ways, riparian baregrounds, marshes, small impoundments. Pri­ marily in eastern half of Texas. Throughout except Caldwell, Gillespie, Lee, Milam, and Williamson counties. Venomous; can bite under water. Color variable. Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, Crotalus atrox: Common. Wooded uplands, upland baregrounds, invaded fields, range and pastures. Western two-thirds of Texas. Throughout, except Burleson, Fay­ ette, and Lee counties. Venomous. Responsible for more human deaths than any other North American snake. Timber Rattlesnake, Crotalus horhdus: Uncommon or rare. Wooded uplands, invaded fields. Scattered through eastern two-thirds of

130

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Texas. Bexar, Burleson, Caldwell, Gonzales, Lee, and Williamson counties. Venomous. Threatened in Texas. Blacktail Rattlesnake, Crotalus molossus molossus: Uncommon or rare. Wooded uplands, upland baregrounds. Scattered through Ed­ wards Plateau and western Texas. Bexar, Burnet, Comal, Hays, Kendall, Llano, and Travis counties. Venomous. Western Massasauga, Sistrurus catenatus tergeminus: Rare. Range and pastures, invaded fields, upland baregrounds. Eastern Panhandle and northern central Texas. Scattered through central Texas. Bell County. Venomous.

Addendum

Order TESTUDINES: Turtles Family EMYDIDAE: Box and Water Turtles Red-eared Slider, Tiachemys scripta elegans: In addition to previously known records of its range in South Central Texas (see p. 120), this turtle was observed in Williamson County on October 8, 1993-

CHAPTER 6

Fishes S. C H R IS TO P H E R C A R A N A N D CLARK H U B B S

THIS ANNOTATED CHECKLIST of the fishes of the South Central Texas area contains 130 species, including both extant and historic taxa. The modern fish fauna of the nineteen-county area consists of at least 93 species. The status of five other species is, however, uncertain so the number of species known or presumed to occur in the region at present may be as high as 98. Twenty-three additional species may occur here as well, although their presence is not confirmed by specimen records. If these additional species are present, the total modern fauna would in­ clude a maximum of 12 1 species. Three of these species are endangered, two are threatened (one may actually be extinct), and the status of three species is of special concern. An additional species warranting special concern throughout its modern range was formerly found in the area, but regional populations have been extirpated. One or two species that pre­ viously occupied this area may be extinct and 8 to 12 others appear to have been eliminated from the regional fauna, although they survive elsewhere. To sum up, the fish fauna of South Central Texas may have included 130 species in the recent past but has been reduced to as few as 93 species at present. Human activities, both intentional and unintentional, have signifi­ cantly affected the ichthyofauna (fish species) of South Central Texas, particularly during the late nineteenth and twentieth centuries. A total of twenty-five to twenty-eight species of fish have been artificially intro­ duced to the waters of South Central Texas. In the checklist, introduced species are marked with an asterisk (*). Some of these probably were released or escaped bait fish. As early as 1875, however, American shad, coho salmon, and carp were deliberately brought into the area and re­ leased. These stocking attempts met with limited success, however, al­ though the carp (now generally considered a detriment to the regional fishery) did survive and became a naturalized, reproducing species. Un­ successful fish introductions have included the inadvertent stocking of

132

Wildlife of South Central Texas

nontarget species along with species intended for introduction. Marine fish such as Atlantic croaker, pinfish, southern flounder, blackcheeked tonguefish, and others, while not deliberately slated for naturalization, have from time to time been discharged into the region's lakes along with saltwater transotics (transplanted exotics) such as striped bass and red drum, which were brought in deliberately. Unadapted, most of these ma­ rine fish could not reproduce in their new environment and usually do not survive for long. Later experiments and modern stocking practices proved more successful, and many of the introduced species are well es­ tablished, with self-sustaining, often large, populations. These natural­ ized species may compete for habitat and in some cases, interbreed with the native taxa, causing stress and genetic dilution. Of great concern are "pet" species that may occasionally escape or be disposed of by disenchanted owners or "freed" by misguided humanitari­ ans. The vast majority of these pets, most of which are tropical in their normal range, die from exposure to cold water during the winter months or at best take a forage fish's place in the food chain. Unregulated intro­ ductions could, however, result in serious damage to the native fauna through direct competition, unchecked breeding, and the spread of infec­ tious diseases or parasites. Such factors may reduce the viability of local breeding groups and further diminish natural diversity. Adverse effects on the fishes of South Central Texas are not con­ fined to those resulting from introduction of exotic species. The most far-reaching, human-induced impact is the irreversible destruction of aquatic habitat. Many springs, underground aquatic ecosystems, and marshes have been completely destroyed by excessive withdrawal of groundwater, surface-water diversion, and filling. Channelization and dredging have eliminated streamside and channel-bottom habitats and permanently altered the flow regimes of entire water courses. Reservoir impoundment has inundated diverse riverine environments, to which many species were uniquely adapted, substituting deep, sterile reservoirs affording limited habitat potential. In addition, such reservoirs block inland migration routes of coastal species and discharge cold, oxygendepleted bottom waters that are detrimental to native faunas down­ stream. Aquatic habitats may be affected for tens to hundreds of kilo­ meters by: siltation caused by filling and gravel dredging along stream channels and by runoff from overgrazed and disturbed upland sites,- im­ proper sewage and waste disposal,- and chemical pollution brought about by intensive agriculture, urbanization, and accidental spills. All of these factors serve to reduce the extent and vitality of environments support­ ing native fishes and other species. Information regarding fish stocking is primarily drawn from unpub­

Fishes

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lished records of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and its predecessor agencies. Fish names, both scientific and vernacular, and their sequence of presentation follow "An Annotated Checklist of the Freshwater Fishes of Texas, with Keys to the Identification of Species" (C. Hubbs et al., 1991) and Common and Scientific Names of Fishes from the United States and Canada (C. R. Robins et al., 1991). For definition of terms used to describe the status and habitat of species see the Appen­ dix. A complete list of sources can be found in the Selected References.

Class CHONDRICHTHYES: Cartilaginous Fishes Order SQUALIFORMES: Sharks Family CARCHARHINIDAE: Requiem Sharks Finetooth Shark, Carcharhinus isodon: Rare or uncommon. Perennial waterways (rivers). Generally a marine species. Occurred in rivers throughout the Gulf Coastal Plains prior to dam construction. Now restricted to the southeastern part of the area. Bull Shark, Carcharhinus leucas: Possible. Perennial waterways (rivers). Generally a marine species. If present in South Central Texas, it is restricted to the southeasternmost part of the area.

Class OSTEICHTHYES: Bony Fishes Order SEMIONOTIFORMES: Semionotiforms Family LEPISOSTEIDAE: Gars Spotted Gar, Lepisosteus oculatus: Uncommon. Perennial waterways. Throughout, particularly in the Gulf Coastal Plains. Longnose Gar, Lepisosteus osseus: Abundant. Perennial waterways. Throughout. Alligator Gar, Lepisosteus spatula: Uncommon. Perennial waterways. Throughout the Gulf Coastal Plains.

Order AMIIFORMES: Amiiforms Family AMIIDAE: Bowfins Bowfin, Amia calva: Possible. Perennial waterways. If present in South Central Texas, restricted to the southeasternmost part of the area.

134

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Order ANGUILLIFORMES: Eels Family ANGUILLIDAE: Freshwater Eels American Eel, Anguilla rostrata: Formerly common, now probably un­ common. Perennial waterways (rivers) and spring-fed streams. Prior to dam construction, found throughout the Gulf Coastal Plains and along the Balcones Escarpment. Now essentially re­ stricted to the southeastern part of the area. Catadromous; only females found inland, where they reach sexual maturity.

Order CLUPEIFORMES: Clupeiforms Family CLUPEIDAE: Herrings Skipjack Herring, Alosa chrysochloris: Uncommon. Perennial water­ ways. Generally a marine species. Occurred in most rivers of the Gulf Coastal Plains prior to dam construction. Now restricted to the southeastern part of the area. American Shad, Alosa sapidissima *: Historic. Perennial waterways. In­ troduced, but stocking attempts failed. Gizzard Shad, Dorosoma cepedianum: Abundant. Perennial waterways, particularly large reservoirs. Throughout. Threadfin Shad, Dorosoma petenense: Common. Perennial waterways, particularly larger reservoirs. Native throughout the eastern half of the area but also widely stocked within its native range.

Order CYPRINIFORMES: Cypriniforms Family CYPRINIDAE: Minnows and Carps Central Stoneroller, Campostoma anomalum: Locally abundant. Spring-fed streams. Primarily in the Edwards Plateau. Goldfish, Carassius auratus*: Locally common. Intermittent streams and small impoundments. Introduced. Scattered localities throughout the area. May assume an olive-gray color in the wild. Plateau Shiner, Cyprinella lepida: Possible. Perennial waterways (riv­ ers). If present in South Central Texas, restricted to the upper Guadalupe River drainage. Red Shiner, Cyprinella lutrensis: Abundant. Perennial waterways and spring-fed streams. Throughout. Occasionally interbreeds with blacktail shiner, C. venusta. Blacktail Shiner, Cyprinella venusta: Common to locally abundant. Perennial waterways (rivers), spring-fed streams, and intermittent

Fishes

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streams. Throughout. Occasionally interbreeds with Red Shiner, C. lutrensis. Common Carp, Cyprinus carpio*: Common to abundant. Perennial wa­ terways, spring-fed streams, intermittent streams, and small im­ poundments. Introduced. Throughout. Scaleless and partially scaled individuals are occasionally seen. Roundnose Minnow, Dionda episcopa: Uncommon to locally common. Spring-fed streams. Colorado and Guadalupe river drainages of the Edwards Plateau. Mississippi Silvery Minnow, Hybognathus nuchalis: Uncommon to lo­ cally common. Perennial waterways (rivers) and intermittent streams. Brazos River drainage, particularly in the Gulf Coastal Plains. Plains Minnow, Hybognathus placitus: Uncommon to locally common. Perennial waterways and intermittent streams. Colorado and Brazos river drainages, particularly in the Edwards Plateau and Lampasas Cut Plain. Ribbon Shiner, Lythrurus fumeus: Uncommon to locally common. Pe­ rennial waterways and intermittent streams. Brazos, Colorado, and Lavaca river drainages of the Gulf Coastal Plains. Speckled Chub, Macrohybopsis aestivalis: Locally common but declin­ ing in abundance. Perennial waterways (rivers). Throughout. Silver Chub, Macrohybopsis storeriana: Possible. Perennial waterways (rivers). If present in South Central Texas, restricted to the south­ eastern part of the area in the Brazos River drainage. Golden Shiner, Notemigonus crysoleucas*: Locally common. Perennial waterways and spring-fed streams. Introduced (released bait); probably throughout. Texas Shiner, Notropis amabilis: Uncommon to locally abundant. Spring-fed streams. Throughout the Edwards Plateau as far north as the San Gabriel River (Brazos River drainage). Pallid Shiner, Notropis amnis: Uncommon. Perennial waterways and intermittent streams. Throughout the Gulf Coastal Plains as far south as the Guadalupe River drainage. Blackspot Shiner, Notropis atrocaudalis: Possible. Perennial waterways (rivers). If present in South Central Texas, restricted to the south­ eastern part of the area in the Brazos River drainage. Smalleye Shiner, Notropis buccula: Threatened, probably extinct. Pe­ rennial waterways (rivers). Native to the middle and upper Brazos River drainage. A disjunct population in the Colorado River near Austin may have been introduced. No recent records of this species.

136

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Ghost Shiner, Notropis buchanani: Uncommon. Perennial waterways (rivers). Throughout. Ironcolor Shiner, Notropis chalybaeus: Special concern. Perennial wa­ terways (rivers) and spring-fed streams. In South Central Texas, restricted to the headwaters of the San Marcos River in Hays County. Sharpnose Shiner, Notropis oxyrhynchus: Threatened. Perennial water­ ways (rivers), particularly silt-laden streams. Endemic to the Brazos River drainage where it is declining in abundance. A dis­ junct population in the Colorado River above Lake Buchanan may have been introduced. Chub Shiner, Notropis potteri: Uncommon to locally abundant. Peren­ nial waterways. Throughout the Brazos River drainage. Silverband Shiner, Notropis shumardi: Locally common to abundant. Perennial waterways (primarily rivers). Widespread in the Brazos River drainage,- found in most streams of the Gulf Coastal Plains southward to the Lavaca River drainage. Sand Shiner, Notropis stramineus: Locally common. Perennial water­ ways and intermittent streams. Scattered localities throughout the Edwards Plateau. Weed Shiner, Notropis texanus: Common to locally abundant. Peren­ nial waterways and intermittent streams. Throughout, particu­ larly in the Gulf Coastal Plains. Mimic Shiner, Notropis volucellus: Common to locally abundant. Perennial waterways and intermittent streams. Throughout. Pugnose Minnow, Opsopoeodus emiliae: Common. Perennial water­ ways and intermittent streams. Throughout the Gulf Coastal Plains. Suckermouth Minnow, Phenacobius mirabilis: Rare to uncommon. Perennial waterways. Scattered localities in the Colorado River drainage of the Gulf Coastal Plains. Fathead Minnow, Pimephales promelas*: Uncommon to locally com­ mon. Perennial waterways and intermittent streams. Introduced (released bait). Throughout. Bullhead Minnow, Pimephales vigilax: Locally common. Perennial wa­ terways and intermittent streams. Throughout. Rudd, Scardinius erythrophthalmus*: Possible. Perennial waterways. Introduced at widely scattered localities throughout the state but not definitely known from South Central Texas. Further introduc­ tions banned by state regulations. Creek Chub, Semotilus atromaculatus: Possible. Perennial waterways (rivers) and intermittent streams. If present in South Central

Fishes

137

Texas, restricted to the southeasternmost part of the area in the Brazos River drainage. Family CATOSTOMIDAE: Suckers River Carpsucker, Carpiodes carpio: Abundant. Perennial waterways, spring-fed streams, intermittent streams, and small impound­ ments. Throughout. Blue Sucker, Cycleptus elongatus: Special concern. Perennial water­ ways (rivers). Scattered localities throughout. Lake Chubsucker, Erimyzon sucetta: Uncommon. Perennial water­ ways. Brazos and upper Guadalupe river drainages. Smallmouth Buffalo, Ictiobus bubalus: Common to locally abundant. Perennial waterways. Throughout. Black Buffalo, Ictiobus niger *: Rare. Perennial waterways. Possibly in­ troduced; scattered localities throughout the Brazos and Colorado river drainages. Spotted Sucker, Minytiema melanops: Uncommon. Perennial water­ ways (rivers). Brazos River drainage. A disjunct population may range into the extreme western edge of Llano County but is not known to occur east of central Mason County in Llano River drainage (outside of nineteen-county area). Gray Redhorse, Moxostoma congestum: Uncommon. Perennial water­ ways (rivers) and spring-fed streams. Throughout the Edwards Plateau. Family CHARACIDAE: Characins Mexican Tetra, Astyanax mexicanus*: Common. Perennial waterways and spring-fed streams. Introduced (released bait); throughout.

Order SILURIFORMES: Siluriforms Family ICTALURIDAE: Bullhead Catfishes Black Bullhead, Ameiurus melas: Abundant. Perennial waterways, spring-fed streams, intermittent streams, and small impound­ ments. Native throughout but also widely stocked. Yellow Bullhead, Ameiurus natalis: Common. Perennial waterways, spring-fed streams, intermittent streams, and small impound­ ments. Throughout. Blue Catfish, Ictalurus furcatus: Common. Perennial waterways, spring-fed streams, and intermittent streams. Throughout. Headwater Catfish, Ictalurus lupus: Historic; special concern through-

138

Wildlife of South Central Texas

out its modern range. Perennial waterways and spring-fed streams. Formerly found in the upper Colorado, Guadalupe, and San Anto­ nio rivers but apparently extirpated from South Central Texas. Channel Catfish, Ictalurus punctatus: Abundant. Perennial waterways, spring-fed streams, intermittent streams, and small impound­ ments. Throughout. Tadpole Madtom, Noturus gyrinus: Rare. Perennial waterways and spring-fed streams. Throughout. Freckled Madtom, Noturus nocturnus: Rare. Perennial waterways. Brazos River drainage. Flathead Catfish, Pylodictis olivaris: Uncommon. Perennial waterways. Throughout. Widemouth Blindcat, Satan eurystomus: Endangered. Caves within the Edwards Aquifer 300 to 600 meters underground. Known only from deep water wells in the San Antonio vicinity (Bexar County). Toothless Blindcat, Trogloglanis pattersoni: Endangered. Caves within the Edwards Aquifer 300 to 600 meters underground. Known only from deep water wells in the San Antonio vicinity (Bexar County). Family LORICARIIDAE: Suckermouth Catfishes Armadillo Del Rio, Hypostomus sp.*: Uncommon or rare. Spring-fed streams. Introduced (released pets); restricted to the headwaters of the Comal and San Antonio Rivers (Comal and Bexar counties, respectively).

Order SALMONIFORMES: Salmoniforms Family ESOCIDAE: Pikes Grass Pickerel, Esox americanus vermiculatus: Uncommon. Perennial waterways. Brazos River drainage, primarily in the Gulf Coastal Plains. Northern Pike, Esox lucius *: Rare or historic. Perennial waterways (large reservoirs). Introduced; stocking attempts in the area have not proven successful. Family SALMONIDAE: Salmons Coho Salmon, Oncorhynchus kisutch*: Historic. Perennial waterways (rivers). Introduced; stocking attempts failed. Rainbow Trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss *: Rare or historic. Perennial waterways (rivers). Introduced; stocking attempts have not pro-

Fishes

139

duced a self-sustaining population but do provide a "put-andtake" fishery in the Guadalupe River and elsewhere. Family APHREDODERIDAE: Pirate Perch Pirate Perch, Aphredoderus sayanus: Possible. Perennial waterways. If present in South Central Texas, restricted to the Brazos River drainage in the southeastern part of the area.

Order ATHERINIFORMES: Atheriniforms Family BELONIDAE: Needlefishes Atlantic Needlefish, Strongylura marina: Uncommon. Perennial water­ ways (rivers). Generally a marine species. Occurred in rivers throughout the Gulf Coastal Plains prior to dam construction. Now restricted to the southeastern part of the area. Family CYPRINODONTIDAE: Killifishes Diamond Killifish, Adinia xenica: Possible. Perennial waterways. Gen­ erally a marine species. If present in South Central Texas, re­ stricted to the southeasternmost part of the area. Red River Pupfish, Cyprinodon rubrofluviatilis: Possible. Perennial wa­ terways. Native to the upper Brazos River and introduced in parts of the Colorado River drainage. If present in South Central Texas, probably restricted to the northwesternmost part of the area. Sheepshead Minnow, Cyprinodon variegatus: Uncommon. Perennial waterways. Found in the lower reaches of most rivers of the Gulf Coastal Plains prior to dam construction and introduced at scat­ tered localities in the San Antonio River drainage. Golden Topminnow, Fundulus chrysotus: Possible. Perennial water­ ways. If present in South Central Texas, restricted to the south­ eastern part of the area as far south as the Lavaca River drainage. Starhead Topminnow, Fundulus dispar: Possible. Perennial waterways. If present in South Central Texas, restricted to the southeasternmost part of the area as far south as the Brazos River drainage. Gulf Killifish, Fundulus grandis: Uncommon to locally common. Pe­ rennial waterways. Generally a marine species. Native to lower reaches of rivers in the Gulf Coastal Plains, particularly the Brazos River drainage. Widely introduced inland, including the South Central Texas area. Blackstripe Topminnow, Fundulus notatus: Uncommon to locally com­ mon. Perennial waterways. Throughout.

140

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Bayou Killifish, Fundulus pulvereus: Possible. Perennial waterways. Generally a marine species. If present in South Central Texas, re­ stricted to the southeasternmost part of the area. Longnose Killifish, Fundulus similis: Possible. Perennial waterways. Generally a marine species. If present in South Central Texas, re­ stricted to the southeasternmost part of the area. Plains Killifish, Fundulus zebrinus: Rare or historic. Perennial water­ ways. A native population in the Colorado River at Austin (Travis County) was extirpated. Extant in South Central Texas, in the vi­ cinity of Johnson City and Llano (Blanco and Llano counties, respectively). Family POECILIIDAE: Livebearers Western Mosquitofish, Gambusia affinis: Abundant. Virtually all aquatic habitats. Native throughout and widely stocked for mos­ quito control. Largespring Gambusia, Gambusia geiseri: Locally common. Spring-fed streams. Headwaters of the Comal and San Marcos rivers (Comal and Hays counties, respectively). San Marcos Gambusia, Gambusia georgei: Extinct. Perennial water­ ways (rivers). Formerly known from the San Marcos River in Hays County, but there are no recent records of this species. Amazon Molly, Poecilia formosa *: Locally common. Perennial water­ ways and spring-fed streams. Introduced. Scattered localities in the San Antonio and San Marcos rivers. An all-female species that reproduces by gynogenesis. Sailfin Molly, Poecilia latipinna*: Locally common. Spring-fed streams. Probably introduced (released pets). Scattered localities along the Balcones Escarpment and on the Edwards Plateau. Guppy, Poecilia reticulata *: Locally common. Perennial waterways. In­ troduced (released pets) throughout but naturalized only in the San Antonio River in Bexar County. Family ATHERINIDAE: Silversides Inland Silverside, Menidia beryllina*: Abundant. Perennial waterways, particularly large reservoirs. Generally a marine species occurring naturally in Texas coastal waters and the lower reaches of coastal streams. Introduced. Throughout. Tidewater Silverside, Menidia peninsulae: Possible. Perennial water­ ways (rivers). Generally a marine species. If present in South Cen­ tral Texas, restricted to the southeasternmost part of the area.

Fishes

141

Family SYNGNATHIDAE: Pipefishes Chain Pipefish, Syngnathus louisianae: Possible. Perennial waterways (rivers). Generally a marine species. If present in South Central Texas, restricted to the southeastern part of the area. Gulf Pipefish, Syngnathus scovelli: Possible. Perennial waterways (riv­ ers). Generally a marine species. If present in South Central Texas, restricted to the southeastern part of the area.

Order PERCIFORMES: Perciforms Family PERCICHTHYIDAE: Temperate Basses White Bass, Morone chrysops *: Common. Perennial waterways, par­ ticularly large reservoirs. Introduced. Scattered localities throughout. Striped Bass, Morone saxatilis*; Rare to uncommon. Perennial water­ ways (large reservoirs). Introduced. Scattered localities through­ out, but few self-sustaining populations have resulted. Family CENTRARCHIDAE: Sunfishes Rock Bass, Ambloplites rupestris*: Uncommon to locally common. Perennial waterways (rivers) and spring-fed streams. Introduced. Comal, San Marcos, and upper Guadalupe rivers. Banded Pygmy Sunfish, Elassoma zonatum: Uncommon to locally common. Perennial waterways (rivers). Lower Brazos River drainage. Redbreast Sunfish, Lepomis auritus*: Uncommon to locally common. Perennial waterways. Introduced. Throughout. Green Sunfish, Lepomis cyanellus: Common. Perennial waterways, spring-fed streams, intermittent streams, and small impound­ ments. Native throughout but also widely stocked. Warmouth, Lepomis gulosus: Common to locally abundant. Perennial waterways, spring-fed streams, intermittent streams, and small impoundments. Throughout. Orangespotted Sunfish, Lepomis humilis: Common. Perennial water­ ways, spring-fed streams, intermittent streams, and small im­ poundments. Native throughout the Brazos and Colorado River drainages but introduced elsewhere in the area. Bluegill, Lepomis macrochirus: Common. Perennial waterways, springfed streams, intermittent streams, and small impoundments. Na­ tive throughout but also widely stocked. Longear Sunfish, Lepomis megalotis: Abundant. Perennial waterways,

142

Wildlife of South Central Texas

spring-fed streams, intermittent streams, and small impound­ ments. Native throughout but also widely stocked. Redear Sunfish, Lepomis microlophus: Abundant. Perennial waterways, spring-fed streams, intermittent streams, and small impound­ ments. Native throughout but also widely stocked. Spotted Sunfish, Lepomis punctatus: Uncommon. Perennial waterways (rivers), spring-fed streams, and intermittent streams. Throughout. Bantam Sunfish, Lepomis symmetricus: Possible. Perennial waterways (rivers) and intermittent streams. If present in South Central Texas, it is restricted to the southeastern part of the area. Smallmouth Bass, Micropterus dolomieu *: Uncommon to locally com­ mon. Perennial waterways (particularly large reservoirs) and spring-fed streams. Introduced. Scattered localities throughout the area but primarily in the Edwards Plateau. Commonly hybridizes with Guadalupe Bass, M. treculi. Spotted Bass, Micropterus punctulatus: Locally common. Perennial wa­ terways. Throughout the Gulf Coastal Plains as far south as the Guadalupe River drainage. Largemouth Bass, Micropterus salmoides: Abundant. Perennial water­ ways, spring-fed streams, intermittent streams, and small im­ poundments. Native throughout but also widely stocked, particu­ larly in large reservoirs. Guadalupe Bass, Micropterus treculi: Special concern. Perennial water­ ways and spring-fed streams. Throughout the Edwards Plateau and lower Colorado River. Threatened by hybridization with intro­ duced Smallmouth Bass, Micropterus dolomieu. State fish of Texas. White Crappie, Pomoxis annularis: Abundant. Perennial waterways, spring-fed streams, and small impoundments. Native throughout but also widely stocked, particularly in large reservoirs. Black Crappie, Pomoxis nigromaculatus: Common to locally abundant. Perennial waterways, spring-fed streams, and small impound­ ments. Native throughout the Gulf Coastal Plains but also widely stocked. Family PERCIDAE: Perches Bluntnose Darter, Etheostoma chlorosomum: Locally common. Peren­ nial waterways (rivers), spring-fed streams, and intermittent streams. Gulf Coastal Plains as far south as the Guadalupe River drainage. Fountain Darter, Etheostoma fonticola: Endangered. Spring-fed

Fishes

143

streams. Restricted to the headwaters of the Comal and San Mar­ cos rivers (Comal and Hays counties, respectively). The present population at Comal Springs was reintroduced in the early 1970's after the original population was extirpated in the mid-1950's, when Comal Springs ceased to flow for an extended period. Slough Darter, Etheostoma gracile: Locally common. Perennial water­ ways (rivers), spring-fed streams, and intermittent streams. Throughout the Gulf Coastal Plains. Greenthroat Darter, Etheostoma lepidum: Locally common. Perennial waterways (rivers) and spring-fed streams. Edwards Plateau as far north as the Colorado River drainage. Orangethroat Darter, Etheostoma spectabile: Locally common. Peren­ nial waterways (rivers) and spring-fed streams. Throughout the Edwards Plateau. Texas Logperch, Percina carbonaria: Abundant. Perennial waterways and spring-fed streams. Throughout the Edwards Plateau. Bigscale Logperch, Percina macrolepida: Locally common. Perennial waterways (rivers) and spring-fed streams. Throughout. Dusky Darter, Percina sciera: Locally common. Perennial waterways (rivers) and spring-fed streams. Throughout as far south as the Guadalupe River drainage. River Darter, Percina shumardi: Locally common. Perennial waterways (rivers). Guadalupe and San Antonio river drainages of the Gulf Coastal Plains. Walleye, Stizostedion vitreum *: Locally common. Perennial water­ ways. Introduced. Large reservoirs throughout, but few selfsustaining populations have resulted. Family SPARIDAE: Porgies Pinfish, Lagodon rhomboides *: Historic. Perennial waterways. Gener­ ally a marine species. Inadvertently released with stocked gamefish. No self-sustaining population in South Central Texas. Family SCIAENIDAE: Drums Freshwater Drum, Aplodinotus grunniens: Common. Perennial water­ ways and spring-fed streams. Throughout. Spotted Seatrout, Cynoscion nebulosus *: Historic. Perennial water­ ways. Generally a marine species. Inadvertently released with stocked gamefish. No self-sustaining population in South Central Texas. Atlantic Croaker, Micropogonias undulatus*: Historic. Perennial wa-

144

Wildlife of South Central Texas

terways. Generally a marine species. Inadvertently released with stocked gamefish. No self-sustaining population in South Central Texas. Red Drum, Sciaenops ocellatus*: Rare or historic. Perennial waterways. Generally a marine species. Both deliberate and inadvertent stock­ ing have failed to produce self-sustaining populations in South Central Texas. Family CICHLIDAE: Cichlids Rio Grande Cichlid, Cichlasoma cyanoguttatum*: Abundant. Peren­ nial waterways, spring-fed streams, and intermittent streams. In­ troduced. Throughout as far north as the San Gabriel River (Brazos River drainage). Blue Tilapia, Tilapia aurea *: Locally common. Perennial waterways, particularly reservoirs where heated water is discharged (i.e., at power stations and industrial sites). Introduced (aquacultural spe­ cies). Guadalupe, San Antonio, and parts of the Colorado river drainages; possibly other scattered localities. Further introduc­ tions banned by state regulations. Mozambique Tilapia, Tilapia mossambica*: Locally common to abun­ dant. Perennial waterways (rivers) and spring-fed streams. Intro­ duced (aquacultural species). Guadalupe, San Marcos, and San An­ tonio river drainages along the Balcones Escarpment and vicinity. Further introductions banned by state regulations. Redbelly Tilapia, Tilapia ziJii*: Locally common. Spring-fed streams. Introduced (released pets); headwaters of the San Antonio River (Bexar County). Further introductions banned by state regulations. Family MUGILIDAE: Mullets Mountain Mullet, Agonostomus monticola: Possible. Perennial water­ ways (rivers). Generally a marine species. If present in South Cen­ tral Texas, restricted to the southeasternmost part of the area. Striped Mullet, Mugil cephalus: Uncommon. Perennial waterways (riv­ ers). Occurred in rivers throughout the Gulf Coastal Plains prior to dam construction. Now restricted to the southeastern part of the area. White Mullet, Mugil curema: Uncommon. Perennial waterways (rivers). Occurred in rivers throughout the Gulf Coastal Plains prior to dam construction. Now restricted to the southeastern part of the area.

Fishes

145

Order PLEURONECTIFORMES: Pleuronectiforms Family BOTHIDAE: Lefteye Flounders Southern Flounder, Paialichthys lethostigma*: Historic. Perennial wa­ terways. Generally a marine species. Inadvertently released with stocked gamefish. No self-sustaining population in South Central Texas. Family CYNOGLOSSIDAE: Tonguefishes Blackcheeked Tonguefish, Symphurusplagiusa*: Historic. Perennial waterways. Generally a marine species. Inadvertently released with stocked gamefish. No self-sustaining population in South Central Texas.

CHAPTER 7

Land Snails of Travis County R A Y M O N D W . NEC K

TRAVIS COUNTY has a varied group of land snails befitting its position between the wetter eastern lowland prairies and riparian woodlands and the drier western upland Edwards Plateau. Some species of land snails found in the county are restricted to only one of the above two areas, whereas other snails have widespread geographical ranges. Several snails and slugs have been introduced. These are indicated by an asterisk (*). Human influence upon the land snail fauna is reflected not only in the number of introduced species but also in the destruction of rich habi­ tats that resulted from urban sprawl and multiple damming of the Colo­ rado River. Other human-induced effects include the creation of new, artificial habitats, such as cultivated and fallow fields, orchards, gardens, greenhouses, asphalt parking lots, landfills, drainage canals, and many other settings that afford unique conditions for land snail colonization. The annotated list which follows represents all species of land snails and slugs known to have occurred in the county in the recent past. All literature records have been utilized. Contemporary populations are known for fifty-three of the fifty-six species included herein. Hopefully, further collections will reveal extant populations of the three species not documented. Most of the names used in this checklist are from How to Know the Eastern Land Snails by John B. Burch (1962), to which the reader is also referred for figures of the species. If, because of taxonomic revisions, a name differs from that found in Burch, the name used by Burch is given following the currently accepted name. Habitat descrip­ tions and other relevant data as known at this point in the study are given. See Selected References for the complete list of sources.

Land Snails of Travis County

147

Class GASTROPODA Subclass PROSOBRANCHIATA Order ARCHAEOSGASTROPODA Family HELICINIDAE Oligyra orbiculata (Helicina orbiculata in Burch): Shell 5-8 mm. Only operculate land snail in area. Throughout, in all terrestrial habi­ tats. Urban tolerance moderate.

Subclass PULMONATA Order BASOMMATOPHORA Family CARYCHIIDAE Carychium mexicanum: Shell whitish; less than 2 mm. Mesic floodplain woodlands. Related to aquatic pulmonates.

Order STYLOMMATOPHORA Suborder ORTHURETHRA Family PUPILLIDAE Pupilla muscorum: Shell dark brown; 3 -4 mm. Isolated record in Colo­ rado River floodplain. Pupoides albilabris: Shell brown; 4-5 mm. Throughout, in welldrained sites. Common in urban areas. Gastrocopta cristata: Shell brownish; 2.5-3 mm. Western upland areas. Under rock in juniper brakes. Gastrocopta pellucida hordeacella: Shell brownish; 2-2.5 mmThroughout in woodlands, prairies, and urban areas. Gastrocopta procera procera: Shell brownish; to 3 mm. Throughout, in woodlands, prairies, and urban areas. Gastrocopta tappaniana: Shell whitish; 3 -4 mm. Protected sites in canyon woodlands. Gastrocopta contracta: Shell whitish; 2.5 mm. Throughout, in riparian woodlands. Family STROBILOPSIDAE Strobilops texasiana: Shell beehive-shaped; ribbed; 2 mm. Throughout, in riparian woodlands.

148

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Suborder HETERURETHRA Family SUCCINEIDAE Succinea luteola: Shell white; large aperture; 1 2 - 15 mm. Throughout, in well-drained sites. Succinea forsheyi: Shell transparent; horn-colored; 9 -15 mm. Wet mar­ gins of streams and ponds, usually with shallow soil over calcare­ ous bedrock. Catinella vermeta [C. avara in Burch): Shell amber; 8 -10 mm. Edges of streams and ponds,- upland sites with cover.

Suborder SIGMURETHRA Division AULACOPODA Family ENDODONTIDAE Anguispira strongylodes [A. alternata in Burch): Shell amber with chestnut spots; 15 - 1 8 mm. Riparian woodlands in eastern part of county. Helicodiscus eigenmanni: Shell ribbed; open umbilicus; 4-5 mm. Rocky slopes above streambeds in western part of county. Helicodiscus inermis: Shell white,- 4 mm. Clay soils in protected micro­ habitats in canyon woodlands. Helicodiscus nummus: Shell white; disc-shaped; 2 mm. Mesic wood­ lands in canyons in western part of county and creek woodlands in eastern part of county. Helicodiscus singleyanus: Shell white; disc-shaped; 4-5 mm. Through­ out county, including urban areas. Punctum vitreum: Shell translucent; 1.5 mm. Protected canyon wood­ lands in western part of county. Family LIMACIDAE Limax flavus*: Mottled yellow-brown slug; 100 mm extended. Intro­ duced from Europe. Urban areas. Common. Limax valentianus* (Lehmannia poirieri in Burch): Pink slug; two dark lines,- 60 mm. Introduced from Europe. Common pest in urban gardens. Deroceras laeve: Small gray slug; 35 mm. Native. Generally uncom­ mon but locally abundant in gardens. Milaxgagates*: Keeled gray slug; 40 mm. Introduced from Europe. Uncommon. In mesic areas.

Land Snails of Travis County

149

Family ZONITIDAE Glyphyalinia roemeri [Retinella roemeri in Burch): Shell flat; transpar­ ent; 4 mm. Caves and wet areas in western part of county. Glyphyalinia umbilicata [Retinella indentata in Burch): Shell shiny with radiating lines; 5-7 mm. Throughout. Abundant in urban areas. Mesomphix friabilis: Gray-black body; horn-colored shell; to 25 mm. Riparian woodlands in eastern part of county. Hawaiia minuscula: Shell pale gray; 2 -3 mm. Mesic canyon wood­ lands with deep leaf litter. Euconulus trochulus (Euconulus chersinus in Burch): Shell beehive­ shaped; no ribs; 13 mm. Riparian woodlands. Zonitoides arboreus: Shell flat; 5-6 mm. Throughout; most common in mesic woodlands. Striatura meridionalis: Horn-colored; 1.5 -2 mm. Mesic soil pockets in protected canyon woodlands.

Division HOLOPODA Family SPIRAXIDAE Euglandina rosea *: Shell rose-brown; spindle-shaped; to 7 5 mm. Intro­ duced into central Austin neighborhoods. Euglandina singleyana: Shell spindle-shaped; to 50 mm. Largest native snail. Predaceous, feeding on snails and slugs. Cedar brakes in western part of county. Family SUBULINIDAE Rumina decollata*: Tip of shell almost always broken off except in young snails; 25-40 mm. Introduced from Mediterranean region. Most common in urban areas but does well in natural areas. Lamellaxis mauritianus*: Shell glossy white; 1 1 mm. Introduced. Found in Austin. May be restricted to greenhouses. Opeas pyrgula *: Body yellowish; 8 mm. Introduced from Mediterranean region. Known only from urban gardens. Cecilioides acicula*: Shell white; 4 mm. Introduced from Europe. Found in residential gardens and moist stream banks in urban areas.

150

Wildlife of South Central Texas Family UROCOPTIDAE

Microceramus texanus (M. pontificus in Burch): Shell pupa-shaped; 8 -12 mm. Talus slopes in western part of county. Metastoma goldfussi {Holospira goldfussi in Burch): Shell pupa-shaped; 10 - 15 mm. Rocky hillsides in western part of county. Metastoma roemeri roemeri (Holospira roemeri in Burch): Shell pupa­ shaped; 15 -2 0 mm. Rocky slopes in western part of county. Family BULIMULIDAE Rabdotus dealbatus dealbatus (Bulimulus dealbatus [in part] in Burch): Light-colored streaking on shell; 15 -2 5 mm. Riparian woodlands; hybridizes with R. mooreanus. Rabdotus mooreanus (Bulimulus dealbatus [in part] in Burch): Shell whitish; may have tan-colored base; 15 -2 5 mm. Most abundant in grassland areas; hybridizes with R. dealbatus dealbatus. Family POLYGYRIDAE Polygyra cereolus* (Polygyra septemvolva in Burch): Shell flattened; many coils; 7 - 1 2 mm. Introduced from coastal Texas. Polygyra auriformis: Shell shaped like ear; apertural teeth; 7 - 1 2 mm. Riparian woodlands; most of habitat now flooded by reservoirs. Polygyra gracilis: Shell brownish-white; 7 - 10 mm. Mesic woodlands in canyons in western portion of county. Polygyra mooreana: Shell slightly domed; 6-9 mm. Xeric upland wood­ lands in western part of county. Polygyra texasiana texasiana: Shell flattened; few ribs; 7 - 1 2 mm. Throughout, in woodland prairies. Euchemotrema leai aliciae [Stenotrema leai in Burch): Long lamella in front of aperture of shell; 7-9 mm. Mesic riparian woodlands; most of habitat now flooded by reservoirs. Praticolella berlandieriana: Shell white; may be banded; 9 -13 mm. Woodlands and mesic prairie areas. Praticolella pachyloma (Praticolella berlandieriana [in part] in Burch): Shell translucent; brown; 10 - 14 mm. Found in open habitats in sandy soil terraces. Mesodon thyroidus: Shell brown; 18-25 mm. Riparian woodlands in eastern part of county. Mesodon roemeri: Shell golden brown; 18 -25 mm. Riparian woodlands throughout county. Mesodon leatherwoodi: Flattened shell; 15 - 18 mm. Moist talus s/opes;

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only known county record is from West Cave in western part of county. Triodopsis cragini*: Shell reddish horn; semiglossy; 8 -10 mm. Intro­ duced into residential yards along urban creeks in Austin. Family HELICIDAE Helix aspersa *: Shell brown; to 40 mm. Introduced from Europe. Urban gardens. Otala lactea *: Shell white; may be banded; to 35 mm. Introduced from Mediterranean region. Urban gardens. Eobania vermiculata* (Otala vermiculata in Burch): Shell white and brown,- to 35 mm. Introduced from Mediterranean region. Urban gardens.

CHAPTER 8

Butterflies R A Y M O N D W . NEC K A N D E D W A R D A. KUTAC

THE BUTTERFLIES of South Central Texas comprise 182 known spe­ cies, all of which have a temperate and/or tropical distribution. Species of the order Lepidoptera that are referred to as butterflies belong to two superfamilies. The true butterflies, which include most of the familiar brightly colored species known to everyone, make up the superfamily Papilionoidea. This group is divided into several families as noted in the checklist below. Less known to the general public are the skippers of the superfamily Hesperioidea. Although there are several spectacular excep­ tions, most skippers are dark brown, orange, or patterned gray in appear­ ance. Their flight patterns are usually jerky or skipping, hence the name skippers. Moths, another large group among the Lepidoptera, are not treated here. The list below includes all of the sixty-four skippers and 118 true butterflies known to inhabit the South Central Texas region. The butterfly fauna of South Central Texas exhibits very definite seasonal patterns in terms of timing of adult occurrences. A moderate number of species may be observed on warm winter days. These species overwinter as adults, becoming active above particular threshold tem­ peratures and may be seen flying in search of nectar or moisture sources. Spring is the season in which the greatest number of species occur as adults. Some of these spring butterflies are single-generation species that have caterpillars that are adapted to feeding on plants present only during the early spring. Other spring species may be found throughout the year until fall frosts kill the leaves of foodplants. Summertime is usually a season of fewer species of flying (adult) butterflies. The number of species active during the summer is dependent upon moisture levels. In dry sum­ mers, the number of active species is very low, but species abundance may be quite high during wet summers. Autumn brings another peak of activity. The return of moisture and cooler temperatures permits further generations of the year-round species. Additionally, species that are nor­ mally found only in far South Texas, or even farther south in northern Mexico, often move northward in the fall, possibly to take advantage of

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seasonally moist conditions. Hurricanes or other strong inland-moving rain systems may produce a massive infusion of these tropical species into Central Texas. Autumn is also the time of greatest migration of at least one temperate species, the monarch, which flies southward in great numbers to wintering areas in Mexico. Zoogeographically, South Central Texas is located in a zone of com­ plex range overlap, both along the east-west axis and the north-south axis. The Balcones Escarpment is a very significant barrier to certain spe­ cies of butterflies as with other life forms. Obviously, the escarpment is not an absolute physical barrier as butterflies can readily fly through the area. Rather the barrier is ecological in nature; for example, there is the lack of a suitable foodplant on one side. Many species of butterflies are present on both sides of the escarpment zone; however, they often utilize different foodplant species on either side. The north-south blend is a function of the winter temperature tolerance of tropical species that nor­ mally occur farther south. During relatively warm periods with suffi­ cient moisture, these tropical species move northward and may persist until temperatures drop too low for them to survive. "Bumper years" of incredible butterfly diversity and abundance occur when moisture, temperature, and wind patterns allow the transport and survival of species usually not found in the area or that typically occur in only small numbers. Most of these species are tropical, normally found much farther south, or moisture-loving species that are normally confined to the Texas coastal region. Snout butterflies are resident spe­ cies that are normally found in very low densities. However, heavy rain­ fall that causes extensive growth of hackberry branches may produce vast numbers of this butterfly, which then migrate northward. In drought years, however, species from the west, such as California sister, extend farther east than normal. These species may be observed in South Central Texas until the return of normal moisture levels limits their survival. Human impact upon the native butterfly fauna of South Central Texas has been manifold. The most obvious impact involves the direct destruc­ tion of habitat through placement of concrete, asphalt, and structures on previously productive land. Additionally, most residential lawns are dominated by landscapes of low floral diversity, which limit the variety of butterfly and other faunas. Many cultivated plants are nonnative and contain natural phytochemicals that are toxic to our native butterflies. Exceptions are the sachem, Atalopedes campestris, which utilizes both St. Augustine and Bermuda grasses. Additionally, the cabbage white, Pieris rapae, is a native of Europe that has been introduced into North America and feeds largely on cultivated cabbage and other mustards. The scientific and English names of butterflies and the order of the

154

Wildlife of South Central Texas

list below essentially follows conventional usage as demonstrated in The Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Butterflies by Rob­ ert Michael Pyle (1981). This popular field guide is readily accessible to the general public and illustrates most of the species listed here. The order of species is the phylogenetic sequence; that is, the most ancient forms at the beginning and the most recently evolved at the end. The list includes subspecies names when known. The account below is based primarily on the only two published lists of butterflies for the South Central Texas area, namely, 'The Butterfly Fauna of Barton Creek Canyon on the Balcones Fault Zone, Austin, Texas" (Christopher J. Durden, 1982) and "Butterflies of the Ottine Area" (H. B. Parks, 1956). All Gonzales County records are drawn from the lat­ ter reference. The abundance of Gonzales County records is not known. Records are from Travis County unless otherwise indicated. In those cases where a species or subspecies name found in one or both of these references differs from Pyle's terminology, that name is shown in paren­ thesis. See Selected References for additional sources.

Phylum ARTHROPODA: Jointed-leg invertebrates Class INSECTA: Insects Order LEPIDOPTERA: Moths and Butterflies Superfamily HESPERIOIDEA: Skippers Family HESPERIIDAE: True Skippers Named for a characteristic strong, darting flight pattern. Most species are brown or orange in general coloration although a few tropical spe­ cies have iridescent blue and red patches. Silver-spotted Skipper, Epargyreus clarus clarus (E. tityrus): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Silver-banded Skipper, Chioides catillus albofasciatus [C. albofasciatus): Uncommon, periodic. Zilpa Longtail, Chioides zilpa zilpa: Scarce, periodic. Long-tailed Skipper, Urbanus proteus (Eudamus proteus): Bastrop and Gonzales counties. Lilac-banded Longtail, Urbanus dorantes dor antes [U. d. rauterbergi): Scarce, periodic. Golden-banded Skipper, Autochton cellus (Achalarus cellus): Gonzales County. Hoary Edge, Achalarus lyciades: Gonzales County. Coyote Skipper, Achalarus toxeus [A. coyote).

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Southern Cloudywhite, Thorybes bathyllus: Bastrop and Gonzales counties. Northern Cloudywhite, Thorybes pylades: Uncommon, permanent resident. Eastern Cloudywhite, Thorybes confusis: Bastrop and Travis counties. Texas Acacia Skipper, Cogia outis: Uncommon resident. Slythius Skipper, Bolla clytius: Rare, periodic. Scalloped Sootywing, Staphylus hayhurstii: Uncommon, permanent resident. Texas Powdered Skipper, Systasea pulverulenta: Abundant, permanent resident. Arizona Powdered Skipper (Zampa), Systasea zampa: Gonzales County. Sickle-wing Skipper, Achlyodes thraso tamenund [A. mithridates tamenund): Common, periodic. False Dusty Wing, Gesta gesta invisus [G. invisus llano): Uncommon, resident. Bastrop, Llano, and Travis counties. White Patch, Chiomara asychis: Very rare. Hays County (John Gee, per­ sonal communication). Southwestern Oak Dusky Wing, Erynnis brizo burgessi [E. burgessi): Blanco County. Possibly locally extirpated. Juvenal's Duskywing, Erynnis juvenalis juvenalis: Uncommon, perma­ nent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Southern Duskywing, Erynnis meridianus: Scarce, permanent resident. Horace's Duskywing, Erynnis horatius: Abundant, permanent resident. Mottled Duskywing, Erynnis martialis: Bastrop County. Zarucco Duskywing, Erynnis zarucco. Funereal Duskywing, Erynnis funeralis (Thanaos funeralis): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Wild Indigo Duskywing, Erynnis baptisiae. Common Checkered Skipper, Pyrgus communis (Syrichtus [Tuttia} communis communis; S. [T.] c. albescens): Abundant, periodic. Tropical Checkered Skipper, Pyrgus oileus ¡5. [T.] oileus; Hesperia montivaga): Travis and Gonzales counties. Desert Checkered Skipper, Pyrgus philetas: Uncommon, permanent resident. Laviana (Tropical White Skipper), Heliopetes laviana [H. lavianus): Scarce, periodic. Common Streaky Skipper, Celotes nessus (Hesperia nessus): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Common Sootywing, Pholisora catullus: Abundant, permanent resident. Mexican Sootywing, Pholisora mejicana.

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Wildlife of South Central Texas

Julia Skipper, Nastra julia: Abundant, permanent resident. Clouded Skipper, Lerema accius: Abundant, permanent resident. Least Skipperling, Ancyloxypha numitor: Lee and Travis counties. Tropical Least Skipperling, Ancyloxypha arene: Llano County. Orange Skipperling, Copaeodes aurantiaca (C. aurantiacus): Abundant, permanent resident. Southern Skipperling, Copaeodes minima [C. minimus): Abundant, permanent resident. Fiery Skipper, Hylephila phyleus phyleus: Abundant, permanent resident. Apache Skipper, Hesperia woodgatei. Cobweb Skipper, Hesperia metea licinus {H. licinus): Bastrop County. Dotted Skipper, Hesperia attalus attalus. Green Skipper, Hesperia viridis: Uncommon, permanent resident. Dixie Skipper, Hesperia meskei meskei: Bastrop County. Tawny-edged Skipper, Polites themistocles: Bastrop County. Whirlabout, Polites vibex brettoides (Tymelicus brettus): Uncommon, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Broken Dash, Wallengrenia otho otho: Abundant, permanent resident. Sachem, Atalopedes campestris huron: Abundant, permanent resident. Beard-grass Skipper, Atrytone arogos arogos, [A. a. iowa): Fayette and Travis counties. Delaware Skipper, Atrytone logan logan [A. delaware lagus): Uncom­ mon, permanent resident. Tropical Blackvein, Atrytone mazai: Rare, very periodic. Broad-marsh Skipper, Poanes viator zizaniae [P. v. viator): Lee County. Dun Skipper, Euphyes vestris metacomet [E. v. osyka; E. ruricola): Abundant, permanent resident. Pepper-and-salt Skipper, Amblyscirtes hegon (A. samoset): Gonzales County. Mottled Roadside Skipper, Amblyscirtes nysa: Uncommon, permanent resident. Dotted Roadside Skipper, Amblyscirtes eos: Uncommon, permanent resident. Roadside Rambler, Amblyscirtes celia: Abundant, permanent resident. Bronze Roadside Skipper (Bronzed Skipper), Amblyscirtes aenus aenus (A. erna): Gonzales and Travis counties. Blue-dusted Roadside Skipper, Amblyscirtes alternata: Bastrop and Lee counties. Eufala Skipper, Lerodea eufala: Abundant, permanent resident. Brazilian Skipper, Calpodes ethlius: Uncommon, periodic. Gonzales and Travis counties. Long-winged Skipper, Panoquina ocola: Abundant, permanent resident.

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Family MEGATHYMIDAE: Giant Skippers Large, heavy-bodied, fast-flying skippers that utilize yuccas and agaves as larval food plants. Colorado Giant Skipper, Megathymus coloradensis kendalli [M. c. reinthali): Uncommon, permanent resident. Caldwell, Gonzales, Lee, Travis, and Williamson counties. Superfamily PAPILIONOIDEA: True Butterflies Family PAPILIONIDAE: Swallowtails Large, flashy, strong-flying butterflies that are easily recognized by the narrow extensions of the hindwings known as tails. Pipevine Swallowtail (Blue Swallowtail), Battus philenor philenor (Papilio philenor): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Polydamas Swallowtail (Gold Rim), Battus polydamas polydamas: Gonzales and Travis counties. Eastern Black Swallowtail, Papilio polyxenes asterias (P. p. curvifasci; P. asterias; P. rudkini): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Thoas Swallowtail, Heraclides thoas autocles. Giant Swallowtail (Orange Dog), Heraclides cresphontes (Papilio cresphontes): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Tiger Swallowtail, Pterourus glaucus glaucus (Papilio turnus): Uncom­ mon, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Two-tailed Swallowtail, Pterourus multicaudatus: Uncommon, perma­ nent resident. Spicebush Swallowtail (Green-clouded Swallowtail), Pterourus troilus troilus (Papilio troilus): Gonzales and Travis counties. Family PIERIDAE: Whites and Sulphurs A large number of small- to moderate-sized butterflies that are gener­ ally yellow, orange, or white in color; black markings of various shapes may be present. Florida White, Appias drusilla poeyi: Scarce, periodic. Checkered White, Pontia protodice (Pieris protodice): Abundant, per­ manent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Cabbage White, Pieris rapae (Artogeia rapae rapae): Abundant, periodic. Falcate Orangetip, Paramidea midea midea (Anthocharis midea an-

158

Wildlife of South Central Texas

nickae; Euchloe genutia): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonza­ les and Travis counties. Southern White, Ascia monuste monuste (Ascia phileta phileta). Common Sulphur, Colias philodice philodice: Bastrop and Gonzales counties. Orange Sulphur, Colias eurytheme eurytheme: Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Dogface Butterfly, Zerene cesonia cesonia (Meganostoma caesonia): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. White Angled Sulphur, Anteos chlorinde (A. c. oivifera): Rare, irregular visitor. Yellow Angled Sulphur, Anteos maerula lacordairei: Gonzales and Travis counties. Cloudless Giant Sulphur, Phoebis sennae eubule {P. s. sennae; P. s. s. marcellina; Catopsilia eubale [sic]): Abundant, periodic. Gonzales and Travis counties. Orange-barred Giant Sulphur, Phoebis philea philea: Scarce, periodic. Orange Giant Sulphur, Phoebis agarithe agarithe [P. a. maxima; Catop­ silia agarithe): Abundant, periodic. Gonzales and Travis counties. Statira, Aphrissa statira jada [A. s. statira). Lyside, Kricogonia lyside lyside (K. 1. terissa; K. 1. fantasia): Abundant, periodic. Gonzales and Travis counties. Fairy Yellow (Barred Sulphur), Eurema daira daira. Mexican Yellow, Eurema mexicanum {E. mexicana; Terias m.): Abun­ dant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Tailed Orange, Eurema proterpia: Abundant, periodic. Little Yellow, Eurema lisa lisa (Terias lisa): Abundant, permanent resi­ dent. Gonzales and Travis counties. Mimosa Yellow, Eurema nise nelphe: Scarce, periodic. Sleepy Orange, Eurema nicippe nicippe (E. n. flava; Terias nicippe): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Dwarf Yellow, Nathalis iole: Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Family LYCAENIDAE: Gossamer Wings Generally small butterflies that are less obvious than many of the larger, more dramatically colored species. However, many of the spe­ cies in this family have very thin tails and intricate eyespots on the hindwing. Harvester, Feniseca tarquinius tarquinius: Scarce, permanent resident. Great Purple Hairstreak (Great Blue Hairstreak), Atlides halesus estesi

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(Theda halesus): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Red-banded Hairstreak, Calycopis cecrops (Theda cecrops): Gonzales County. Silver-blue Hairstreak, Ministrymon dytie [Theda d ytie): Gonzales County. Succulent Hairstreak, Xamia xami texami [Theda belenina [sic]): Gon­ zales County. White M Hairstreak, Parrhasius m-album (Panthiades m-album malbum; Theda m-album): Uncommon, permanent resident. Gon­ zales and Travis counties. Henry's Elfin, Incisalia henrici solata [Callophrys henrici turneri; C. solatus): Abundant, permanent resident. Llano and Travis counties. Olive Hairstreak, Mitoura grynea grynea [M. gryneus gryneus; Callo­ phrys gryneus gryneus; C. g. auburniana): Abundant, permanent resident. Bastrop and Travis counties. Central Texas Olive Hairstreak, Mitoura grynea castalis (Callophrys sweadneri). Banded Hairstreak, Satyrium calanus falacer (Theda calanus): Uncom­ mon, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Soapberry Hairstreak, Phaeostrymon alcestis alcestis (Theda alcestis): Gonzales, Travis, and Williamson counties. Silver-banded Hairstreak, Chlorostrymon simaethis sarita (Theda smaethis): Gonzales and Williamson counties. Dusky Blue Hairstreak, Calycopis isobeon: Abundant, permanent resident. Oak Hairstreak (Southern Hairstreak), Fixsenia ontario autolycus (Theda autolycus ; T. favonius): Abundant, resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Gray Hairstreak (Common Hairstreak), Strymon melinus franki (S. m. melinus; Theda metinus [sic]): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Alea Hairstreak, Strymon alea: Abundant, permanent resident. Columella Hairstreak, Strymon columella istapa: Scarce, periodic. Western Pygmy Blue, Brephidium exilis exilis (B. exilis; Lycaena exilis; L. isophthalma): Scarce, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Cassius Blue, Leptotes cassius striatus (L. c. striata): Scarce, periodic. Marine Blue, Leptotes marina (L. marinus): Uncommon, periodic. Cyna Blue, Zizula cyna (Lycaena cyna): Scarce, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Antillean Blue, Hemiargus ceraunus zachaeina: Uncommon, periodic.

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Wildlife of South Central Texas

Reakirt's Blue, Hemiargus isola (Echinargus isola alee; Lycaena isole): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Eastern Tailed Blue, Everes comyntas comyntas [E. texana): Uncom­ mon, periodic. Spring Azure, Celastrina argiolus ladon [C. ladon): Scarce, permanent resident. Family RIODINIDAE: Metalmarks Small butterflies that often seem somewhat drab until one notices the large number of small silver flecks on the wings. Flight may be strong or weak but is usually erratic. Little Metalmark (Virginia Metalmark), Calephelis virginiensis [C. caenius: Gonzales County. Fatal Metalmark, Calephelis nemesis australis [C. australis): Abun­ dant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Lost Metalmark, Calephelis perditalis: Uncommon, permanent resident. Southwest Metalmark, Calephelis rawsoni (C. guadeloupe; C. sinaloensis nuevoleon): Abundant, permanent resident. Red-bordered Metalmark (Schaus1 Metalmark), Caria ino melicerta (Apodemia mulliplaga): Gonzales County. Mormon Metalmark, Apodemia mormo mejicana [A. m. mejicanus): Bastrop and Travis counties. Family LIBYTHEIDAE: Snout Butterflies Readily recognized by the pair of enlarged palps that project from ei­ ther side of the head. Rather drab in general appearance, these butter­ flies resemble dark leaves when at rest. Snout Butterfly, Libytheana bachmanii bachmanii (L. b. larvata; Libythea b.): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Southern Snout, Libytheana carinenta mexicana: Scarce, periodic. Family NYMPHALIDAE: Brush-footed Butterflies Named for their shortened forelegs, which are covered with hairs, thus resembling brushes. Many of the South Central Texas butterflies be­ long to this family and vary in appearance from variable brown pat­ terns to leaf mimics to brightly colored patterns. Gulf Fritillary, Agraulis vanillae (Dione vanillae incarnata): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties.

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Mexican Silverspot. Dione moneta poeyi. Julia, Dryas iulia moderata (Colaenis julia; C. delila): Abundant, peri­ odic. Gonzales and Travis counties. Zebra Longwing, Heliconius charitonius vazquezae: Abundant, peri­ odic. Gonzales and Travis counties. Isabella Tiger, Eueides isabellae zorcaon: Travis County (Single sight record). Variegated Fritillary, Euptoieta claudia claudia: Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Mexican Fritillary, Euptoieta hegesia hoffmanni: Scarce, periodic. Texan Crescentspot (Texas Eresia), Anthanassa texana texana [Eresia texana): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Vesta Crescentspot, Phyciodes vesta: Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Phaon Crescentspot, Phyciodes phaon: Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Pearly Crescentspot, Phyciodes tharos distincta: Abundant, permanent resident. Gorgone Crescentspot, Charidryas gorgone carlota: Scarce, periodic. Silver Crescentspot, Charidryas nycteis: Abundant, permanent resident. Bordered Patch (Lacinia), Chlosyne lacinia adjutrix (Syncholoe lacinia): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Janais Patch (Crimson Patch), Chlosyne janais (Syncholoe janais): Gon­ zales and Travis counties. Theona Checkerspot (Thekla Checkerspot), Thessalia theona bollii (Melitaea thekla): Burnet and Gonzales counties. Dymas Checkerspot (Chara Checkerspot), Dymasia dymas [Melitaea dymas; Melitaea chara): Gonzales County. Beardtongue Checkerspot (Smaller Checkerspot), Poladryas minuta minuta [Melitaea minuta): Gonzales County. Elada Checkerspot (Ulric's Checker Spot), Texola elada ulrica [Melitaea ulrica): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Question Mark, Polygonia interrogationis [Grapta interrogationis): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Comma, Polygonia comma [Grapta comma): Scarce, permanent resi­ dent. Gonzales and Travis counties. Mourning Cloak, Nymphalis antiopa lintnerii (Vanessa antiopa): Scarce, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. American Painted Lady (Hunter's Butterfly; Virginia Lady), Vanessa vir-

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Wildlife of South Central Texas

giniensis [Pyrameis huntera): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Painted Lady (Thistle Butterfly,* Cosmopoliate), Vanessa cardui (Pyra­ meis cardui): Abundant, periodic. Gonzales and Travis counties. Red Admiral (Alderman), Vanessa atalanta rubria (Pyrameis atalanta): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Buckeye, funonia coenia coenia (Precis coenia): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Dark Buckeye (Lavinia), funonia genoveva zonalis (/. nigrosuffusa; f. lavinia auctorum; Precis nigrosuffusa; P. genoveva genoveva; P. g. zonales): Uncommon, periodic. Gonzales and Travis counties. White Peacock, Anartia jatrophae jatrophae: Scarce, periodic. Gonzales and Travis counties. Malachite, Siproeta stelenes biplagiata [Victoria stelenes): Gonzales and Travis counties. Red-spotted Purple, Basilarchia arthemis astyanax [B. astyanax; Limenitis astyanax astyanax): Uncommon, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Viceroy, Basilarchia archippus archippus (Limenitis archippus watsoni; B. disippus): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. California Sister, Adelpha bredowii (Limenitis bredowii eulalia): Abundant, periodic. Dyonis Greenwing, Dynamine dyonis: Rare, extremely periodic. Amymone, Mestra amymone (Mestra hypermnestra amymone; Cystineura amymone): Abundant, periodic. Gonzales and Travis counties. Crimson-banded Black, Biblis hyperia aganisa. Banded Daggerwing, Marpesia chiron (Timetes chiron): Scarce, periodic. Gonzales and Travis counties. Goatweed Butterfly, Anaea andria andria (Pyrrhanaea andria): Abun­ dant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Tropical Leafwing, Anaea aidea: Abundant, periodic. Hackberry Butterfly (Hackberry Emperor), Asterocampa celtis celtis (A. c. alicia; Chlorippe celtis; C. alcia): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Empress Antonia, Asterocampa celtis antonia (A . antonia antonia; Chlorippe antonia): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Empress Leilia, Asterocampa leilia: Abundant, periodic. Tawny Emperor, Asterocampa clyton clyton [A. c. texana): Abundant, permanent resident. Burnet and Travis counties.

Butterflies

163

Empress Louisa, Asterocampa clyton louisa [A. louisa): Uncommon, permanent resident. Family SATYRIDAE: Satyrs or Browns Includes a few species of generally brown-colored butterflies that are small to moderate in size. Pearly Eye, Enodia portlandia missarkae [Debis portlandia): Gonzales County. Gemmed Satyr, Cyllopsis gemma gemma (Neonympha gemma): Gon­ zales and Lee counties. Hermes Satyr, Hermeuptychia hermes (Neonympha hermes; N. sosybius): Gonzales and Travis counties. Little Wood Satyr, Megisto cymela cymela (Neonympha eurytus): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Red Satyr, Megisto rubricata rubricata: Abundant, permanent resident. Large Wood Nymph (Blue-eyed Grayling; Texas Satyr), Cercyonis pegala texana (Satyrus alope): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Family DANAIDAE: Milkweed Butterflies Includes a very few generally well-known species whose caterpillars feed on milkweed plants. Monarch, Danaus plexippus plexippus: Abundant, periodic. Gonzales and Travis counties. Queen, Danaus gilippus strigosus (D. berenice): Abundant, permanent resident. Gonzales and Travis counties. Tropic Queen, Danaus eresimus montezuma: Abundant, periodic.

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APPENDIX

Description of Terms

THE FOLLOWING is a brief definition of descriptive terms used in the species accounts. These terms reflect the habitat requirements and status of each species as it exists in the nineteen counties of South Cen­ tral Texas covered by this book.

Status Terms Abundant The species is widespread in the area and represented by a large local population,* individuals are often urban tolerant and are very frequently encountered. Accidental. At best, only one record during one time period in ten years. Not expected. Common. The species is represented by a large local population and/or individuals are conspicuous and thus regularly encountered. May be abundant in some sections of the area. Endangered. The species is in possible imminent danger of extinction and requires protection and/or other assistance. This term is used only in relation to species formally recognized as endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and/or the Texas Parks and Wild­ life Department. Erratic. Occurs at irregular intervals, sometimes in numbers. Extant. Living now. Extinct. The species no longer survives either in the wild or in captive breeding programs. Extirpated. The species is not currently represented by a local popula­ tion, although individuals formerly occupied the area within his­ toric times. Species survives elsewhere. Formerly recorded. No record since 1970, more or less. Date of last rec­ ord shown, if known. Historic. Same as extirpated.

166

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Hypothetical. Usually a single, unconfirmed sight record by one party, but believed reliable. The species needs confirming evidence such as a specimen, photo, or tape of voice to confirm status. Introduced. The species is not indigenous to South Central Texas; that is, it was transplanted by humans. Denoted by an asterisk (*). Occasional. In the case of birds, occurs less than five years out of ten, with often a single record. Should be reported as a Rare Bird Alert. Possible. The species may occur within the area, although its status is unconfirmed by recorded observations. Rare. The species is represented by a very small local population; indi­ viduals are secretive and are very infrequently encountered. In the case of birds, occurs at infrequent intervals, always a good find. Special concern. The species has undergone a significant reduction in abundance and/or range that may cause it to be threatened. Threatened. The species is threatened with extinction and may become endangered in the near future. This term is used only in relation to species formally recognized as threatened by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and/or the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Uncommon. The species is represented by a small, local population and/ or individuals are retiring and thus seldom encountered. May re­ quire a higher degree of competence by the observer than species described as common.

Habitats Caves. Subterranean cavities with ground surface access. Croplands. Cultivated acreage. Cultural areas. Areas of urban and/or rural development. Towns, farm­ yards, or in proximity to human activity. Fence rows. Grasses, brush, vines, tangles, or other growth along a fence. Floodplain. That portion of a valley at and below the greatest recorded high-water level. Intermittent streams. Inconstant-flowing water courses (such as creeks). Invaded fields. Formerly cultivated acreage and/or pastures now over­ grown with scrub vegetation (such as honey mesquite, Roosevelt weed, and paloverde). Marshes. Submerged waterside areas overgrown with emergent aquatic vegetation (such as cattails, rushes, and arrowhead). Perennial waterways. Constant-flowing streams and large, permanent reservoirs. These include the Highland Lakes, Lake Bastrop, Stillhouse Hollow Reservoir, Calaveras Lake, Braunig Lake, and the riv­ ers of the area.

Description of Terms

167

Range and pastures. Grazing lands normally overgrown with grasses, herbs, and occasional low shrubs. Riparian baregrounds. Unvegetated waterside areas, generally within the floodplains of the bordering streams or reservoirs. Sandbars, rocks. Riparian woodlands. Waterside areas overgrown with woody vegetation (such as black willow, boxelder, baldcypress, and eastern cotton­ wood) adapted to constantly wet soils. Small impoundments. Reservoirs of very limited surface area. Farm ponds. Spring-fed streams. Water courses that receive emergent groundwater. Springs and seepage slopes. Areas of groundwater emergence. Throughout. May be found in any habitat. Usually widespread. Understory vegetation. Grasses, shrubs, and small trees below the tall tree canopy. Upland Baregrounds. Unvegetated hillsides (generally with steep slopes). Wastewater ponds. Artificial impoundments maintained for the purpose of purifying sanitation wastewater; water levels are inconstant. These include Hornsby Bend Ponds (Austin) and Mitchell Lake (San Antonio). Wooded uplands. Tree-covered hillsides and areas that are higher in ele­ vation than the floodplains of bordering streams and are overgrown with woody vegetation (such as oaks, elms, junipers, and sumacs).

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Selected References

Chapter 1. Natural Features Geology

Abbott, Patrick L., and C. M. Woodruff, Jr., eds. 1986. The Balcones Es­ carpment: Geology, Hydrology, Ecology and Social Development in Central Texas. Published for Geological Society of America An­ nual Meeting, San Antonio, November 1986. American Association of Petroleum Geologists. 1973. Geological High­ way Map of Texas. Tulsa. Barnes, Virgil E., W. C. Bell, S. E. Clabaugh, P. E. Cloud, Jr., R. V. McGehee, P. U. Rodda, and Keith Young. 1972. Geology of the Llano Region and Austin Area. Field Excursion Guidebook no. 13. Aus­ tin: Bureau of Economic Geology, University of Texas. Bureau of Economic Geology. 1974. Geologic Atlas of Texas, Austin Sheet. Austin: University of Texas. — ---- . 1979. Geologic Atlas of Texas, Seguin Sheet. Austin: University of Texas. ------- . 1981. Geologic Atlas of Texas, Llano Sheet. Austin: University of Texas. — — . 1983. Geologic Atlas of Texas, San Antonio Sheet. Austin: Uni­ versity of Texas. Ewing, T. E., and S. C. Caran. 1982. Late Cretaceous volcanism in South and Central Texas—stratigraphic, structural, and seismic models. Gulf Coast Association of Geological Societies Transactions 32: 137- 145Ferguson, W. K. 1986. The Geographic Provinces of Texas. Austin: Texas Mosaics. Kutac, Edward A., and S. Christopher Caran. 1976. A Bird Finding and Naturalist's Guide for the Austin, Texas, Area. Austin: Oasis Press.

170

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Soil Conservation Service. 1974. Soil Survey of Travis County, Texas. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office. Spearing, Darwin. 1991. Roadside Geology of Texas. Missoula, Mont.: Mountain Press Pub. Co. Texas Highway Department, n.d. Texas, Land of Contrast. Austin. Trippet, A. R., and L. E. Garner. 1976. Guide to Points of Geologic Inter­ est in Austin. Guidebook no. 16. Austin: Bureau of Economic Ge­ ology, University of Texas. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1979. Unique Wildlife Ecosystems of Texas. Washington, D.C. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1991. Proposed Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge. Albuquerque. Plants

References below are included for information, even though plants are not included in this work except in a general manner. Plant scientific names follow Correll and Johnston. If name is changed in Hatch et al., the new name is shown in parentheses. English names are from various sources. Ajilvsgi, Geyata. 1979. Wild Flowers of the Big Thicket, East Texas, and Western Louisiana. College Station: Texas A&M University Press. Burlage, Henry M. 1973. The Wild Flowering Plants of Highland Lakes Country of Texas. Henry M. Burlage. Correll, Donovan S., and Marshall C. Johnston. 1970. Manual of the Vas­ cular Plants of Texas. Renner, Tex.: Texas Research Foundation. Enquist, Marshall. 1987. Wildflowers of the Texas Hill Country. Austin: Lone Star Botanical. Gould, Frank W. 1975. The Grasses of Texas. College Station: Texas A&M University Press. Hatch, Stephen L., Kancheepuram N. Gandhi, and Larry E. Brown. 1990. Checklist of the Vascular Plants of Texas. College Station: Texas Agricultural Experiment Station. Irwin, Howard S., and Mary Motz Wells. 1961. Roadside Flowers of Texas. Austin: University of Texas Press. Johnston, M. C. 1990. The Vascular Plants of Texas, A List, Up-dating the Manual of the Vascular Plant of Texas, Second Edition. Austin. McMahan, C. A., R. G. Frye, and K. L. Brown. 1984. The Vegetation Types of Texas, Including Cropland. Austin: Texas Parks and Wild­ life Department. Rickett, Harold William. 1970. Wildflowers of the United States. Vol. 3, parts 1 and 2 (Texas). New York: McGraw-Hill.

Selected References

171

Texas Forest Service. 1972. How to Know the Trees of Texas. College Station. Vines, Robert A. i960. Trees, Shrubs, and Woody Vines of the South­ west. Austin: University of Texas Press. Weniger, Del. Undated. Cacti of the Southwest. Austin: University of Texas Press. Whitehouse, Eula. 1967. Texas Flowers in Natural Colors. Dallas: Dallas County Audubon Society.

Chapter 3. Birds American Ornithologists' Union. 1983. Check-list of North American Birds. 6th ed. (including amendments through the 38th supple­ ment, 1991). Washington, D.C. Arnold, Keith A., et al. 1984. Checklist of the Birds of Texas. Austin: Texas Ornithological Society. Bryan, Kelly, Tony Gallucci, Greg Lasley, and David H. Riskind. 1991. A Checklist of Texas Birds. Technical Series no. 32. Austin: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Bull, John, and John Farrand, Jr. 1977. The Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Birds. Eastern Region edition. New York: Al­ fred A. Knopf. Farrand, John, Jr., ed. 1983. The Audubon Society Master Guide to Birding. 3 vols. New York: Alfred A. Knopf. National Geographic Society. 1987. Field Guide to Birds of North America. 2d ed. Washington, D.C. Oberholser, Harry C., and Edgar B. Kincaid, Jr. 1974. The Bird Life of Texas. Austin: University of Texas Press. Peterson, Roger Tory. 1963. A Field Guide to the Birds of Texas and Adjacent States. Boston: Houghton Mifflin. Robbins, Chandler S., et al. 1983. A Guide to Field Identification: Birds of North America. Rev. ed. New York: Golden Press. Simmons, George Finlay. 1925. Birds of the Austin Region. Austin: Uni­ versity of Texas Press.

Chapter 4. Mammals Block, S. B. and E. G. Zimmerman. 1991. Allozymic variation and systematics of plains pocket gophers (Geomys) of south-central Texas. The Southwestern Naturalist 36(11:29-36. Davis, W. B. 1974. The Mammals of Texas. Bulletin 41. Austin: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

172

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Jones, J. K., Jr., C. Jones, and D. J. Schmidly. 1988. Annotated Checklist of Recent Land Mammals of Texas. Occasional Papers of the Mu­ seum, no. 1 1 9 :1 - 2 5 . Lubbock: Texas Tech University Museum. Jones, J. K., Jr., R. S. Hoffman, D. W. Rice, Clyde Jones, R. J. Baker, and M. D. Engstrom. 1992. Revised Checklist of North American Mammals North of Mexico, 1991. Occasional Papers of the Mu­ seum, no. 146:23. Lubbock: Texas Tech University Museum. Lee, T. E., Jr. 1987. Distributional record of Lasiurus seminolus (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae). Texas Journal of Science 39(2): 193. Manning, R. W., J. K. Jones, Jr., R. R. Hollander, and C. Jones. 1987. Notes on the distribution and natural history of some bats on the Edwards Plateau and in adjacent areas of Texas. Texas Journal of Science

39(3 ) ^ 79- 285. Nowak, R. M. 1979. North American Quaternary Canis. Monograph of the Museum of Natural History, University of Kansas, no. 6 : 1 154. Lawrence. Peterson, R. L. 1946. Recent and Pleistocene mammalian fauna of Brazos County, Texas. Journal of Mammalogy 2 7 :16 2-16 9 . Schmidly, D. J. 1983. Texas Mammals East of the Balcones Fault Zone. College Station: Texas A&M University Press. ------- . 1991. The Bats of Texas. College Station: Texas A&M University Press. Texas Organization for Endangered Species. 1988. Endangered, Threat­ ened, and Watch List of Vertebrates. Publication no. 6. Austin. Chapter 5. Amphibians and Reptiles Blair, W. Frank (Professor, Zoology Department; Director, Brackenridge Field Laboratory, University of Texas at Austin). 1974-1975. Per­ sonal communication, January 1974 and February 1975. Chippendale, Paul T., Andrew H. Price, and David M. Hillis. 1993. A new species of Perennibranchiate salamander (Eurycea: Plethodonitidae) from Austin, Texas. Herpetologica 49(2): 248-259. Collins, Joseph T. 1990. Standard Common and Current Scientific Names for North American Amphibians and Reptiles. 3d ed. Herpetological Circular no. 19. Lawrence, Kan.: Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles. Conant, Roger, and Joseph T. Collins. 1991. Reptiles and Amphibians: Eastern/Central North America. 3d ed. The Peterson Field Guide Series, no. 12. Boston: Houghton Mifflin. Dixon, James R. 1987. Amphibians and Reptiles of Texas. W. L. Moody, Jr., Natural History Series, no. 8. College Station: Texas A&M Uni­ versity Press.

Selected References

173

Garrett, Judith M., and David G. Barker. 1987. A Field Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians of Texas. Texas Monthly Field Guide Series. Aus­ tin: Texas Monthly Press. Hampton, Nan. 1975. Annotated checklist of the amphibians and rep­ tiles of Travis County, Texas. Natural History Survey of Central Texas, Occasional Paper, no. 3. In A Bird Finding and Natural­ ist's Guide for the Austin, Texas, Area, by Edward A. Kutac and S. Christopher Caran. Austin: Oasis Press. Resource Protection Division. 1991. Endangered Resources Annual Status Report (E.R.A.S.R.) Austin: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Ryan, Michael (Professor, Zoology Department, University of Texas at Austin). 1991. Personal communication, July 1991. Sweet, Samuel A. 1984. Secondary contact and hybridization in the Texas cave salamanders Eurycea neotenes and E. tridentifera. Copeia 1984(21:428-441. Tennant, Alan. 1984. The Snakes of Texas. Austin: Texas Monthly Press. Texas Natural Heritage Program. 1991. Special Animal List. Austin: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Texas Natural Heritage Program. 1991. Watch List of Animals. Austin: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Vermersch, Thomas G., and Robert E. Kuntz. 1986. Snakes of SouthCentral Texas. Austin: Eakin Press.

Chapter 6. Fishes Caran, S. C. 1976. Annotated checklist of the fishes of Travis County, Texas. In A Bird Fishing and Naturalist's Guide for the Austin, Texas, Area, by Edward A. Kutac and S. Christopher Caran, 7 1-8 3. Austin: Oasis Press. Conner, J. V. 1977. Zoogeography of freshwater fishes in western Gulf slope drainages between the Mississippi and the Rio Grande. Ph.D. dissertation, Tulane University, New Orleans. Edwards, R. J., G. Longley, R. Moss, J. Ward, R. Mathews, and B. Stewart. 1989. A classification of Texas aquatic communities with special consideration toward the conservation of endangered and threat­ ened taxa. Texas Journal of Science 4 1:2 3 1-2 4 0 . Hubbs, C., R. J. Edwards, and G. P. Garrett. 1991. An annotated checklist of the freshwater fishes of Texas, with keys to identification of spe­ cies. Texas Journal of Science 43 (Supplement). Knapp, F. T. 1953. Fishes found in the freshwaters of Texas. Brunswick, Ga.: Ragland Studio and Litho Printing Co. Robins, C. R., R. M. Bailey, C. E. Bond, J. R. Brooker, E. A. Lachner, R. N. Lea, and W. B. Scott. 1991. Common and Scientific Names of

174

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Fishes from the United States and Canada. American Fisheries Society Special Publication, no. 20. Washington, D.C. Tilton, J. E. 1961. Ichthyological survey of the Colorado River of Texas. Master's thesis. University of Texas at Austin. Williams, }. E., J. E. Johnson, D. A. Hendrickson, S. Contreras-Balderas, J. D. Williams, M. Navarro-Mendoza, D. E. McAllister, and J. E. Deacon. 1989. Fishes of North America—endangered, threatened, or of special concern. Fisheries 14 :2-20 .

Chapter 7. la n d Snails of Travis County Burch, John B. 1962. How to Know the Eastern Land Snails. Dubuque, Iowa: William C. Brown. Hubricht, Leslie. 1985. The distributions of the native land mollusks of the eastern United States. Fieldiana (Zoology) n.s. (no. 24): 1 - 1 9 1 . Neck, R. W. 1976a. Cecilioides acicula (Muller): Living colonies estab­ lished in Texas. Sterkiana (no. 61): 19-20. --------. 1976b. Preliminary checklist of land snails of Travis County. In A Bird Finding and Naturalists’ Guide for the Austin, Texas, Area, by Edward A. Kutac and S. Christopher Caran, 124 -129 . Austin: Oasis Press. ------- . 1977. New county records of land snails in Texas. Sterkiana (no. 65-66):5-6. ------- . 1981. Noteworthy gastropod records from Texas. Texas Conchologist 17:6 9 -72. ------- . 1984. Occurrence of Euglandiana rosea in central Texas. Texas Conchologist 20:64-66. ------- . 1989. Additional terrestrial gastropods of Travis County, Texas. Malacology Data Net 2 : 13 5 -14 3 . Pilsbry, Henry A. 1939-1948. Land Mollusca of North America (North of Mexico). Academy of Natural Science of Philadelphia. Mono­ graph no. 3. 2 vols. Philadelphia.

Chapter 8. Butterflies Brues, C. T. 1905. The occurrence of a tropical butterfly in the United States. Entomology News 1 6 : 1 1 - 1 2 . Doyle, J. F. III. 1979. Temporary range extension and larval foodplant of Dynamine dionis (Nymphalidae) in Texas. Journal of the Lepidop­ tera Society 33:20. Durden, Christopher J. 1982. The butterfly fauna of Barton Creek Can­ yon on the Balcones Fault Zone, Austin, Texas, and a regional list. Journal of the Lepidoptera Society 36(1): 1 - 1 7 .

Selected References

175

Engelhardt, G. P. 1934. Tornados and butterfly migrations in Texas. Bul­ letin of the Brooklyn Entomological Society 29:16. Masters, J. H. 1970. Distributional notes on the genus Mestra. (Nymphalidae) in North America, fournal of the Lepidoptera Society 24:203-208. Neck, R. W. 1977. Effects of 1933 hurricanes on butterflies on central and southern Texas, fournal of the Lepidoptera Society 31:6 7-6 8. ------- . 1978. Climatic regimes resulting in unusual occurrences of Rhopalocera in central Texas in 1968. Journal of the Lepidoptera Soci­ ety 3 2 : 1 1 1 - 1 1 5 . ------- . 1983. Additional comments of the butterflies of the Austin, Texas, region. Journal of the Lepidoptera Society 37 :320 -321. Parks, H. B. 1956. Butterflies of the Ottine area. In Palmetto State Park, Ottine, Texas, by G. K. Shearer, 23-25. Austin: Texas State Parks Board. Pyle, Robert Michael. 1981. The Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Butterflies. New York: Alfred A. Knopf.

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Index of Natural Features and Locations by Counties [Page numbers for locations and features mentioned in Chapters i and 2 and in the introductions to Chapters 3-8 , inclusive) Alvin, 15 Balcones Canyonlands, 1, 5, 8-9, 11, 21, 23, 25, 29, 37, 47-49 Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, 49 Balcones Escarpment, 1, 4-5, 8, 1 1 - 1 2 , 15, 38, 52, 153 Balcones Fault System, viii, 4-5, 154 Bandera County, 49 BASTROP COUNTY, vii, viii, 14, 17, 44 Alum Creek, 18 Bastrop, ix, 17 - 19 Bastrop State Park, vii, 17, 50 Buescher State Park, vii, 17, 18, 50 Elgin, viii, 18 -19 Lake Bastrop, 18 North Shore Park, 18 Lost Pines, 13, 17 Sayersville Road, 19 Smithville, 18 Tahitian Village, 19 University of Texas Environ­ mental Science Park, 18 BELL COUNTY, vii, 14, 19 Belton, 2 0 -21 Belton Lake, 20 Owl Creek Park and Nature Area, 20 Camp Tahuaya, 21

Leon River, 20 Little River, viii Salado, 21 Salado Creek, 24 Stillhouse Hollow Lake, 19, 20 River's Bend Park, 19 Union Grove Park, 19 Wildlife Management Area, 19 Temple, 4, 20 Temple Lions Park, 20 Temple Parks and Recreation Department, 20 Union Grove, 19 BEXAR COUNTY, vii, 14, 21, 48-49, 52 Alamo Heights, 23 Jack Judson Nature Trail, 23 Brackenridge Park, 22 Japanese Tea Gardens, 22 Sunken Gardens, 22 Braunig Lake, 25 Calaveras Lake, 25 City Public Service Board of San Antonio, 25 Mitchell Lake, 24 San Antonio, viii, 4, 10, 12, 21, 24, 29, 50 Dwight D. Eisenhower Park, 22 Emilie and Albert Friedrich Park, 23, 48, 49 John James Park, 24

178

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Medina River, 21 Mission Parkway, 21 Olmos Basin Park, 25 San Antonio Botanical Cen­ ter, 24 San Antonio River, io, 2 1-2 2 San Antonio Zoo, 22 San Pedro Springs, 10 Somerset Road, 21 Southside Lions Park, 22 Southside Lions Park East, 22 W. W. McAllister Park, 23 San Antonio Parks and Recrea­ tion Department, xi, 2 1-2 5 Big Bend National Park, 48, 49 Bird Checklists, 50 -51 Blackland Prairie, 1, 4, 1 1 - 1 3 , 21, 42 BLANCO COUNTY, vii, 14, 25, 48 Blanco, 26 Blanco State Park, vii, 26 Johnson City, 25, 26 Pedernales Falls State Park, viii, 25, 48, 50, 51 Pedernales Hills Country Na­ ture Trail, 26 Wolf Mountain Trail, 26 Blanco River, viii, 26, 27, 50 Bosque County, 49 Boy Scouts of America, 21 Brazos River, 8, 36 BURLESON COUNTY, vii, 14, 27, 35 Lake Somerville, 34 Lake Somerville State Park, Birch Creek Unit, viii, 3 5 36, 51 BURNET COUNTY, vii, viii, 14, 27, 49 Buchanan Dam, 27 Burnet, ix, 8, 27, 37 Federal Fish Hatchery, 27 Inks Lake, 27 Inks Lake State Park, viii, 27

CALDWELL COUNTY, vii, 14, 28 Lockhart, 28 Lockhart State Park, viii, 28 Luling, 32 Plum Creek, 28 Cambrian Period, 9 Carrizo Formation, 13 Central Basin, 8 Central Lowland Province, 11 Central Mineral Region, 8 Climate, 13 - 1 6 Colorado Bend State Park, 48, 49 Colorado River, viii, 10, 13, 19, 31, 3 7 -4 1, 44, 146 COMAL COUNTY, vii, 14, 28-29, 50 Canyon Lake, 30 Canyon Lake Headquarters and Dam, 30 Canyon Park, 30 Comal Park, 30 Cranes Mill Park, 30 Jacobs Creek Park, 30 Potters Creek Park, 30 Comal River, 10 Comal Springs, 10 Cypress Bend Park, 30 Guadalupe River State Park, vii, 29, 50 -51 Honey Creek, 30, 50 Honey Creek State Natural Area, 29, 50 Landa Park, 10 New Braunfels, viii, 4, 10, 28-30 New Braunfels Dump, 28 New Braunfels Parks and Rec­ reation Department, 30 Cretaceous Period, 4, 5, 42 Cretaceous Series, 8, 9, n - 1 2 Cross Timbers, 11 Dallas, 1 1 Del Rio, 4

Lake Buchanan, 27-28 , 37 -38

Devil's River State Natural Area,

Longhorn Cavern State Park, viii Marble Falls, 27-28

49 Dinosaur Valley State Park, 48, 49

Index of Natural Features and Locations East Texas Pineywoods, 24 Edwards Aquifer, 10 Edwards Plateau, viii, 1, 5, 8, 1 0 - 1 1 , 15, 20, 25, 31, 39, 42, 48-49, 146 FAYETTE COUNTY, vii, 14, 30 Cedar Creek Reservoir, 3 1-3 2 Fayetteville, 32 La Grange, 30-32 La Grange Bluff, 31 Ledbetter, 36 Monument Hill/Kreische Brew­ ery State Historic Site, viii, 30 Oak Thicket Park, 32 Park Prairie Park, 3 1-3 2 Fayette Prairie, 1 Garner State Park, 48 GILLESPIE COUNTY, vii, viii, 14, 32, 37 Fredericksburg, 32, 36-37 Lady Bird Johnson Park, 32 Lyndon B. Johnson State His­ torical Park, viii GONZALES COUNTY, vii, ix, 14, 3^, 154 Gonzales, viii, 32 Ottine, 32, 154 Palmetto State Park, viii, 32, 51 Great Plains, 1, 11 Guadalupe-Bianco River Author­ ity, 33 GUADALUPE COUNTY, vii, 14, 33 Governor Ireland Park, 33 Seguin, 33 Max Starke and Riverside Park, 33 Seguin Parks Department, xi Guadalupe River, viii, 29-30, 33 Gulf Coastal Plains, 1, 5, 1 1 - 1 3 Gulf of Mexico, 1, 5, 15, 25 HAYS COUNTY, vii, 14, 33, 50, 52 Cypress Creek, 34, 50

179

Driftwood, 50 San Marcos, viii, 4, 10, 28, 52 City Park, 33 San Marcos Parks and Recrea­ tion Department, 3 3 San Marcos Springs, 10 Spring Lake, 10, 34 Wimberley, 33, 50 Highland Lakes, viii, 27-28, 37, 4 1-4 2 Hill Country, 1, 8, 24, 29 Hill Country State Natural Area, 49 Hillsboro, 4 Hurricane Claudette, 15 KENDALL COUNTY, vii, 14, 34, 29, 50 Boerne, 29, 34 Boerne City Lake, 34 City Park, 34 Cibolo Creek, 34 Comfort, 34 Old Tunnel Wildlife Manage­ ment Area, viii, 3 5 Kerr County, 49 Kerr Wildlife Management Area, 48-49 Kickapoo Cavern State Natural Area, 49 Kimble County, 49 Kinney County, 49 Lampasas Cut Plain, 1, 8, 1 0 - n , 20 Lampasas River, viii, 19 - 2 1 LEE COUNTY, vii, viii, 14, 35 Giddings, 36 Lake Somerville, 34, 36 Lake Somerville State Park, Nails Creek Unit, viii, 35—36, 5i Yegua Creek, 36 LLANO COUNTY, vii, viii, ix, 14, 27-28, 36 Black Rock Park, 37 Buchanan Dam, 27

180

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Cedar Point Resource Area, 38 Enchanted Rock, 37 Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, vii, 36, 51 Kingsland, ix, 28 Lake Buchanan, 27-28, 37—38 Llano, ix, 36-37 Sandy Creek, 37 Shaw Island Park, 37 Llano Uplift, viii, 1, 5, 8 -10 , 27, 37 Lost Maples State Natural Area, 48-49 Lower Colorado River Authority, viii, xi, 17 - 18 , 28, 31, 37-38, 43-44 Main Fault, 4 Marble Falls Formation, 26 Medina County, 49 Meridian State Park, 48, 49 MILAM COUNTY, vii, 14, 38 Alcoa Lake, 38 Aluminum Company of America, 38 County Road 421, 38 Rockdale, 38 San Gabriel, 38 Thorndale, 38 Mount Bonnell Fault, 4 Oakville Escarpment, 31 Onion Creek, 42, 43, 50 Paleozoic Era, 9 Pedernales River, viii, 25-26, 44- 45, 50 Pennsylvanian Period, 9, 26 Post Oak Savannah, 1, 4, n , 13, 31- 32, 36 Precambian Era, 9 Queen City Formation, 13 Red River, 12 Reklaw Formation, 13 Rio Grande, 48 Rio Grande Plain, 1

San Gabriel River, viii, 38, 45, 48 San Marcos River, viii, 10, 32-34 San Saba County, 49 Somerville, 36 Somerville County, 49 South Llano River State Park, 49 South Texas Plains, 1, 21, 24 Staked Plains, viii Tamaulipan Plains, 21 Tertiary Period, 4, 11, 13 Texas Department of Transporta­ tion, ix, xi Texas Parks and Wildlife Depart­ ment, vii, xi, 17 - 18 , 50, 133 TRAVIS COUNTY, vii, viii, 14, 38, 42-44, 48-50, 146, 154 Austin, viii, ix, 4, 5, 10, 25, 28, 38-42, 44, 52 Austin Garden Center, 39 Austin Nature Center, 39 Barton Springs, 10 Barton Springs Swimming Pool, 39 Blunn Creek Wilderness Area, 39 Capitol Grounds, 39 Eastwoods Park, 39 Elisabet Ney Museum, 39 Holly Street Power Plant, 41 Laguna Gloria Art Museum, 39 Mayfield Park, 39 Northwest Park, 39 Rosewood-Zaragosa Greenbelt, 39 Shoal Creek Hike and Bike Trail, 39 Stacy Park, 39 Town Lake Hike and Bike Trail, 39 Town Lake Metropolitan Park, 41 Waterloo Park, 39 Zilker Park, 10, 39

Austin Dam, 41 Austin Parks and Recreation Department, xi, 38-39, 41

Index of Natural Features and Locations Barton Creek, 39, 41, 49, 154 Emma Long Metropolitan Park (City Park), 41, 48 Hamilton Creek, 45 Hamilton Pool Park, 44 Hippie Hollow Park, 49 Hornsby Bend Wastewater Treatment Plant, 38 Jonestown, 28 Lake Austin, 4 1-42, 49 Lake McDonald, 41 Lake Travis, 28, 43 Lake Walter E. Long Metropoli­ tan Park, 40 Longhorn Dam, 41 McKinney Falls, 43 McKinney Falls State Park, viii, 42, 5i Mansfield Dam, 42, 44 Mansfield Dam Park, 44 Mary Quinlan Park, 42 Mount Bonnell City Park, 5 Pace Bend Park, 43-44 Pilot Knob, viii, 42-43 Red Bud Isle, 41 Selma Hughes Park, 42 Tom Miller Dam, 41 Town Lake, 39, 41 Travis County Parks Depart­ ment, xi, 44 Turkey Creek, 41, 48 Volente, 28

181

Waller Creek, 39 Webberville, 44 Webberville Park, 44 Wild Basin Preserve, 42, 49 Williamson Creek, 42, 43 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, xi, 19-20, 30, 36, 45 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, xi, 48-49 Uvalde, 4 Valley Spring Gneiss, 27 Val Verde County, 49 Waco, 4 Walter Buck Wildlife Management Area, 49 WILLIAMSON COUNTY, vii, 14, 15, 45, 49 Georgetown, 45-46, 48 Granger Lake, 45 Friendship Park, 45 Taylor Park, 45 Willis Creek Park, 45 Wilson H. Fox Park, 45 Lake Georgetown, 45, 48 Cedar Brakes Park, 48 North San Gabriel River, 45 Taylor, 45 Thrall, 15

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Index of Animals and Plants Accipitei spp., 62-63 ACCIPITRES, 62 ACCIPITRIDAE, 62 ACCIPITRINAE, 62 ACCIPITROIDEA, 62 Acer negundo, 13 Achalarus spp., 154 Achlyodes spp., 155 Acris crepitans blanchardi, 116 Actitis macularia, 68 Adders, 125 Adelpha bredowii, 162 Adinia xenica, 139 Admiral, Red, 162 Aechmophorus occidentalis, 54 AEGITHALIDAE, 84 Aegolius acadicus, 75 Aeronautes saxatalis, 77 Agarito, 31 AGELAIINI, 99 Agelaius phoeniceus, 99 Agkistrodon spp., 126, 129 Agonostomus montícola, 144 Agraulis vanillae, 160 Aimophila spp., 8, 96 Aix sponsa, 58 Ajaia ajaja, 57 ALAUDIDAE, 82 ALCEDINES, 78 ALCEDINIDAE, 78 ALCEDINOIDEA, 78 Alderman, 162 Alligator, American, 119

ALLIGATORIDAE, 119 Alliga tor mississippi ensis, 199 Alosa spp., 134 Amazilia yucatanensis, 77 Ambloplites rupestris, 141 Amblyscirtes spp., 156 Ambystoma spp., 12, 114 AMBYSTOMATIDAE, 114 Ameiurus spp., 137 Amia calva, 133 AMIIDAE, 133 AMIIFORMES, 133 Ammodramus spp., 97-98 AMPHIBIA, 114 Amphibians, 113, 114 Amphispiza bilineata, 8, 97 Amymone, 162 Anaea spp., 162 Anartia jatrophae jatrophae, 162 Anas spp., 58-59 ANATIDAE, 57 ANATINAE, 58 ANATINI, 58 Ancyloxypha spp., 156 Andropogon gerardii, 12, 31 ANGUIDAE, 124 Anguilla rostrata, 134 ANGUILLIDAE, 134 ANGUILLIFORMES, 134 Anguispira spp., 148 Anhinga, 36, 54 Anhinga anhinga, 54 ANHINGIDAE, 54

184

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Ani, Groove-billed, 24, 34, 43, 44, 74 Anis, 74 Anole, Green, 121 Anolis carolinensis, 12 1 Anser albifrons, 58 ANSERES, 57 ANSERIFORMES, 57 ANSERINAE, 57 ANSERINI, 58 Anteos spp., 158 Anthanassa texana texana, 161 Anthocharis midea annickae, 157 Anthus spp., 88 Antilocapra americana, 112 ANTILOCAPRIDAE, 112 Antrozous pallidus pallidus, 106 Apalone spp., 12 1 Aphanostephus spp., ix Aphelocoma coerulescens, 8, 84 APHREDODERIDAE, 139 Aphredoderus sayanus, 139 Aphrissa spp., 158 Aplodinotus grunniens, 143 Apodemia spp., 160 APODIDAE, 76 APODIFORMES, 76-77 APODINAE, 77 Appias drusilla poeyi, 157 Aquila chrysaetos, 64 ARCHAEOSGASTROPODA, 147 Archilochus spp., 8, 12, 77 ARDEAE, 55 Ardea herodias, 5 5 ARDEIDAE, 55 ARDEINI, 55 Arenaria interpres, 69 ARENARIINI, 69 ARINAE, 74 Arizona elegans arenicola, 124 Armadillo, Nine-banded, ix, 29, 37, 107 Armadillo Del Rio, 138 Arremonops rufivirgatus, 96 ARTHROPODA, 154 ARTIODACTYLA, 103, 112

Artogeia rapae rapae, 157 Ascia spp., 158 Ash, red, 13 Asio spp., 75 Ass, 103 Asterocampa spp., 16 2-16 3 Astyanax mexicanus, 137 Atalopedes spp., 153, 156 ATHERINIDAE, 140 ATHERINIFORMES, 139 Atlides halesus estesi, 158 Atrytone spp., 156 AULACOPODA, 148 Auriparus flaviceps, 8, 84 Autochton cellus, 154 AVES, 53 Avocet, American, 24, 67 Aythya spp., 60 AYTHYINI, 60 Azure, Spring, 160 Badger, American, 8, 1 1 1 Baiomys taylori, 12, 109 Baldcypress, 10, 29 Barbets, 78 Barn-Owl, Common, 75 Bartramia longicauda, 68 Basilarchia spp., 162 BASOMMATOPHORA, 147 Bass spp., 132, 14 1- 14 2 Bassariscus astutus, i n Basses, Temperate, 141 Bat spp., 10 4 -10 7 Bats Molossid, 106 Mormoopid, 104 Vespertilionid, 105 Battus spp., 157 Bear, Black, i n Beargrass, Lindheimer, 31 Beautyberry, American, 13 Beaver, American, 109 Beavers, 109 Bellflower, basin, 9, 37

BELONIDAE, 139 Berberis trifoliolata, x, 31

Index of Animals and Plants Biblishyperia aganisa, 162 Birds True, 53 Typical, 53 Bison, American, 112 Bittern spp., 40, 5 5 Black, Crimson-banded, 162 Blackbird spp., 18, 99-100 Black-Hawk, Common, 63 Blackvein, Tropical, 156 Blechnum occidentale, 37 Blindcat spp., 138 Blue spp., 159 -16 0 Bluebird Eastern, 20, 33, 40, 44, 87 Mountain, 87 Western, 87 Bluebonnet, Texas, ix, 12, 28 Bluegill, 141 Bluestem big, 12, 31 little, 10, 12, 31, 36 silver, 12 Bobcat, 29, 112 Bobolink, 99 Bobwhite, 37, 65 Bolla clytiusf 155 Bombycilla spp., 89 BOMBYCILLIDAE, 89 Bos spp., 103, 112 BOTAURINI, 55 Botaurus lentiginosus, 55 BOTHIDAE, 145 Bothriochloa spp., x, 12 Bouteloua spp., 9, 10, 12 BOVIDAE, 103, 112 Bowfin, 133 Boxelder, 13 Branta canadensis, 58 Brephidium spp., 159 Browns, 163 Bubo virginianus, 75 Bubulcus ibis, 56 Bucephala spp., 60 Buchloe dactyloides, 9, 10 Buckeye spp., 162

185

Budgerigar, 52 Buffalo Black, 137 Smallmouth, 137 Buffalograss, 9, 10 Bufflehead, 34, 38, 60 Bufo spp., 8, 1 1 7 - 1 1 8 BUFONIDAE, 117 BULIMULIDAE, 150 Bulimulus dealbatus, 150 Bullfrog, 118 Bullhead spp., 137 Bullsnake, 127 Bunting Indigo, 33, 43, 95 Lark, 97 Lazuli, 19, 95 Painted, 19, 20, 26, 27, 33, 37, 42/ 43, 95 Varied, 95 Bushtit, 26, 37, 84 Buteo spp., 63 Buteogallus anthracinus, 63 Butorides striatus, 56 Butterflies, 152, 154 Brush-footed, 160 Snout, 153, 160 True, 157 Butterfly Dogface, 158 Hunter's, 161 Snout, 160 Thistle, 162 Caiman, Spectacled, 119 Caiman crocodilus, 119 CAIRININI, 58 Calamospiza melanocorys, 97 Calcarius spp., 99 Calephelis spp., 160 CALIDRIDINI, 69 Calidris spp., 69-70 Callicaipa americana, 13 Callipepla squamata, 65 Callirhoe involucrata, 12 Callophrys spp., 159

186

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Calpodes ethlius, 156 Calycopis spp., 159 Calypte spp., 77 Campanula reverchonii, 9, 37 Campostoma anomalum, 134 Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus, 85 CANIDAE, n o Canis spp., n o Canvasback, 60 Capra hircus, 103 CAPRIMULGIDAE, 76 CAPRIMULGIFORMES, 76 CAPRIMULGINAE, 76 Caprimulgus spp., 76 Caracara, 64 Crested, 12, 19, 33, 40, 64 Carassius auratus, 134 CARCHARHINIDAE, 133 Carcharhinus spp., 133 Cardellina rubrifrons, 94 Cardinal, Northern, 95 CARDINALINAE, 95 Cardinalis spp., 95 CARDUELINAE, 101 Carduelis spp., 8, 101 Caria ino melicerta, 160 CARNIVORA, n o Carp, Common, 135 Carpiodes carpio, 137 Carpodacus spp., 8, 101 Carpsucker, River, 137 Carya spp., x, 10, 13 CARYCHIIDAE, 147 Carychium mexicanum, 147 Casmerodius albus, 5 5 Castilleja spp., ix, 12 Castor canadensis, 109 CASTORIDAE, 109 Cat, Feral, i n Catbird, Gray, 88 Catfish spp., 13 7 -13 8 Catfishes Bullhead, 137 Suckermouth, 138 CATHARTAE, 61

Cathartes aura, 61 CATHARTIDAE, 61 CATHARTOIDEA, 61 Catharus spp., 87 Catherpes mexicanus, 8, 85 Catinella spp., 148 Catopsilia spp., 158 Catoptrophorus semipalmatus, 68 CATOSTOMIDAE, 137 Cats, i n CAUDATA, 114 Ceanothus, inland, 31 Ceanothus herbaceus, 31 Cecilioides acicula, 149 Cedar, 10 Celastrina spp., 160 Celotes nessus, 155 Celtis laevigata, 10, 12, 13 CENTRARCHIDAE, 141 Cercis canadensis, 10 Cercyonis pégala texana, 163 Certhia americana, 85 CERTHIIDAE, 85 CERTHIINAE, 85 CERVIDAE, 112 Cervus spp., 112 Ceryle spp., 78 CERYLINAE, 78 Chaetodipus hispidus, 108 Chaetura pelagica, 76 CHAETURINAE, 76 Chameleon, 12 1 CHARACIDAE, 137 CHARADRII, 66 CHARADRIIDAE, 66 CHARADRIIFORMES, 66 CHARADRIINAE, 66 Charadrius spp., 67 Charidryas spp., 161 Chat, Yellow-breasted, 23, 94 Checker Spot, Ulric's, 161 Checkerspot spp., 161 Chelydra serpentina serpentina, 119 CHELYDRIDAE, 119 Chen spp., 58

Index of Anim als and Plan ts Chickadee, Carolina, 35, 42, 43, 47, 84 Chioides spp., 154 Chiomara asychis, 155 CHIROPTERA, 104 Chlidonias niger, 73 Chlorippe spp., 162 Chloroceiyle americana, 78 Chlorostrymon simaethis sarita, 159 Chlosyne spp., 161 Choke-cherry, escarpment, 48 Chondestes grammacus, 97 CHONDRICHTHYES, 133 Chordeiles spp., 76 CHORDEILINAE, 76 Chub spp., 13 5 -13 6 Chubsucker, Lake, 137 Chuck-will's-window, 24, 42, 76 Chukar, 51 Cichlasoma cyanoguttatum, 144 Cichlid, Rio Grande, 144 CICHLIDAE, 144 CICONIAE, 57 CICONIIDAE, 57 CICONIIFORMES, 55 Circus cyaneus, 62 Cistothorus spp., 86 Clangula hyemalis, 60 Cloudywing spp., 155 CLUPEIDAE, 134 CLUPEIFORMES, 134 Cnemidophorus spp., 123 Coachwhip, Western, 126 Coccothraustes vespertinus, 101 COCCYZINAE, 74 Coccyzus spp., 74 Cogia outis, 155 Colaenis spp., 161 Colaptes auratus, 79 Coleonyx brevis, 121 Colias spp., 158 Colibri thalassinus, 77 Colinus virginianus, 65 Coluber constrictor flaviventris, 124

187

COLUBRIDAE, 124 COLUMBAE, 73 Columba livia, 73 COLUMBIDAE, 73 COLUMBIFORMES, 73 Columbina spp., 73-74 Coma, 48 Comma, 161 Commellinantia anomala, x, 3i Conepatus mesoleucus, 1 1 1 Contopus spp., 80 Coot, American, 18, 22, 34, 38, 66

Cooter, River, Texas, 120 Copaeodes spp., 156 Cophosaurus texanus texanus, 122 Copperhead spp., 129 CORACIIFORMES, 78 Coragyps atratus, 61 Coralbean, 13 coreopsis, goldenmane, ix Coreopsis basalis, ix Cormorant Double-crested, 19, 25, 30, 31, 34, 36, 38, 40, 45, 54 Neotropic, 25, 54 Olivaceous, 31, 36, 54 CORVIDAE, 83 Corvus spp., 84 Cosmopoliate, 162 Cottonmouth, Western, 126, 129 Cottontail Desert, 107 Eastern, 13, 37, 44, 107 cottonwood, eastern, 13 Coturnicops noveboracensis, 65 Cow, domestic, 103 Cowbird spp., 25, 100 Coyote, 29, n o Crane spp., 28, 66 Crappie spp., 142 Creeper, Brown, 21, 24, 43, 85 Crescentspot spp., 161 Croaker, Atlantic, 132, 143

188

Wildlife of South Central Texas

CROCODILIA, 119 Crossbill, Red, 18, 101 Crotalus spp., 12 9 -13 0 CROTAPHYTIDAE, 122 Crotaphytus collaris collaris, 122 Crotophaga sulcirostris, 74 CROTOPHAGINAE, 74 Crow, American (Common), 84 Cryptotis parva, 104 Cuckoo Black-billed, 74 Yellow-billed, 30, 37, 43, 45, 74 CUCULIDAE, 74 CUCULIFORMES, 74 Cupgrass, Texas, 13 Curlew spp., 68-69 Curlymesquite, common, 9, 10 Cyanocitta spp., 12, 83 Cyanocorax yncas, 83 Cycleptus elongatus, 137 CYGNINI, 58 Cygnus columbianus, 58 Cyllopsis gemma gemma, 163 Cynanthus latirostris, 77 CYNOGLOSSIDAE, 145 Cynomys ludovicianus, 108 Cynoscion nebulosus, 143 Cyprinella spp., 134 CYPRINIDAE, 134 CYPRINIFORMES, 134 Cyprinodon spp., 139 CYPRINODONTIDAE, 139 Cyprinus carpio, 135 Cyrtonyx montezumae, 65 Cystineura amymone, 162 Daggerwing, Banded, 162 Daisy, Engelmann, 13 DAN AIDAE, 163 Danaus spp., 163 Darter spp., 14 2 -14 3 Darters, 54 Dash, Broken, 156 DASYPODIDAE, 107

Dasypus mvemcinctus, 107 Dayflower, false, 31

Debis portlandia, 163 Deer Axis, 112 Fallow, 112 Sika, 112 White-tailed, 26, 29, 37, 44, 112 Deirochelys reticularia miaria, 12, 120 Dendrocygna spp., 57 DENDRO CYGNINI, 57 Dendroica spp., 8, 9 1-9 2 Deroceras laeve, 148 Diadophus punctatus arnyi, 124 Dickcissel, 96 DICOTYLIDAE, 112 DIDELPHIDAE, 104 DIDELPHIMORPHIA, 104 Didelphis virginiana, 104 Dionda spp., 135, 160, 161 Diospyros texana, 31 Dipodomys ordii, 108 Diurnal birds of prey, 61 Dog, Feral, n o DOLICHONYCHINI, 99 Dolichonyx oryzivorus, 99 Dorosoma spp., 134 Dove spp., ix, 37, 73-74 Dowitcher spp., 70 Dropseed, tall, 12 Drum spp., 132, 144 Dryas iulia moderata, 161 Drymarchon corais erebennus, 124 Dryocopus pileatus, 79 Duck American Black, 51 Masked, 61 Mottled, 58 Ring-necked, 38, 60 Ruddy, 34, 61 Wood, 2i, 22, 40, 41, 43, 45, 58 Ducks, 57 Dabbling, 58 Muscovy, 58 Stiff-taiJed, 61

Dumetella carolinensis, 88

Index of Animals and Plants Dunlin, jo Dusky wing spp., 155 Dusty Wing spp., 155 Dymasia dymas, 161 Dynamine dyonis, 162 Eagle Bald, 18, 19, 27, 28, 36, 38, 45, 62 Golden, 35, 64 Echinargus isola alce, 160 Ectopistes migratorius, 73 Eel, American, 134 Eels, Freshwater, 134 Egret spp., 43, 55-56 Egretta spp., 55, 56 Elanoides forficatus, 62 Elanus caeruleus, 62 Elaphe spp., 124, 125 ELAPIDAE, 129 Elassoma zonatum, 141 Elbowbush, 31 Eleutherodactylus augusti latrans, 116 Elfin, Henry's, 159 Elm American, 13 Cedar, 9, 10, 29, 48 Elymus canadensis, 13 EMBERIZIDAE, 90 EMBERIZINAE, 96 Emperor, Tawny, 162 Empidonax spp., 43, 80-81 Empress spp., 16 2-16 3 EMYDIDAE, 120 ENDODONTIDAE, 148 Engelmannia pinnatifida, 13 Enodia portlandia missarkae, 163 Eobania vermiculata, 15 1 Epargyreus spp., 154 Eptesicus spp., 106 EQUIDAE, 103 Equus spp., 103 Eremophila alpestris, 82 Eresia, Texas, 161 Eresia texana, 161

189

Erethizon dorsatum, n o ERETHIZONTIDAE, n o Erimyzon sucetta, 137 Eriochloa sericea, 13 Eryngium yuccifolium, 31 Erynnis spp., 155 Erythrina herbacea, 13 ESOCIDAE, 138 Esox spp., 138 Etheostoma spp., 14 2 -14 3 Euchemotrema leai aliciae, 150 Euchloe genutia, 158 Euconulus spp., 149 Eudamus proteus, 154 Eudocimus albus, 56 Eueides isabellae zorcaon, 161 Eugenes fulgens, jy Euglandina spp., 149 Eumeces spp., 8, 123 Euphagus spp., 100 Euphyes spp., 156 Euptoieta spp., 161 Eurema spp., 158 Eurycea spp., 1 1 4 - 1 1 5 Evening primrose, Mexican, ix Everes spp., 160 Eysenhardtia texana, 31 Falco spp., 64 Falcon spp., 21, 64 FALCONES, 64 FALCONIDAE, 64 FALCONIFORMES, 61 FALCONINI, 64 Farancia abacura reinwardtii, 125 FELIDAE, h i Felis spp., i n - 1 1 2 Feniseca targuinius targuinius, 158 Finch Cassin's, 101 House, 8, 22, 24, 30, 35, 101 Purple, 17, 33, 35, 101 Finches Cardueline, 101 Fringilline, 101

190

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Firewheel, ix Fishes, 13 1 Bony, 123 Cartilaginous, 133 Fixsenia ontario autolycus, 159 Flicker spp., 20, 35, 79 Flounder, Southern, 132, 145 Flounders, Left eye, 145 FLUVICOLINAE, 80 Flycatcher Acadian, 30, 45, 80 Alder, 80 Ash-throated, 8, 23, 26, 44, 45, 47, 81 Brown-crested, 25, 81 Cordilleran, 81 Fork-tailed, 82 Great Crested, 12, 20, 42, 81 Hammond's, 18, 81 Least, 81 Olive-sided, 80 Scissor-tailed, 30, 37, 82 "Traill's-type/' 80 Vermilion, 37, 47, 81 Western, 81 Willow, 80 Yellow-bellied, 80 Flycatchers Fluvicoline, 80 Tyrannine, 81 Tyrant, 80 Forestiera pubescens, 31 Fox spp., 29, 103, n o Foxglove, 12 Fraxinus spp., x, 13 FREGATAE, 5 5 Fregata magnificens, 5 5 FREGATIDAE, 55 Frigatebird, Magnificent, 25, 55 FRINGILLIDAE, 101 Fritillary spp., 16 0 -16 1 Frog spp., 8, 12, 1 1 6 - 1 1 8 Frogs, 116 Tropical, 116 Trae, 118 Fulica americana, 66 Fundulus spp., 139 -14 0

Gadwall, 18, 22, 34, 38, 59 Gaillardia pulchella, ix GALLIFORMES, 64 Gallinaceous Birds, 64 GALLINAGININI, 70 Gallinago gallinago, 70 Gallinula chlor opus, 66 Gallinule, Purple, 65 gamagrass, eastern, 13 Gambusia spp., 140 Gar spp., 133 Gastrocopta spp., 147 Gastrophryne spp., 1 1 8 - 1 1 9 GASTROPODA, 147 Gavia spp., 53 GAVIIDAE, 53 GAVIIFORMES, 53 Gecko spp., 12 1 Geese, 57, 58 GEKKONIDAE, 121 Geococcyx califorianus, 74 GEOMYIDAE, 108 Geomys spp., 108 Geothlypis trichas, 94 Gerrhonotus liocephalus infer­ nales, 8, 124 Gesta spp., 155 Glaucomys volans, 108 Glyphyalinia roemeri, 149 umbilicata, 149 Gnatcatcher spp., 24, 37, 86, 87 Goat, domestic, 103 Goatsuckers, 76 Goatweed Butterfly, 162 Godwit spp., 69 Goldeneye spp., 38, 51, 60 Golden-Plover, Lesser, 66 Goldfinch American, 20, 42, 101 Lesser, 8, 23, 29, 30, 34, 37, 44, 101 Goldfish, 134 Gold Rim, 157 Goose spp., 58

Gopher spp., 108 Gopherus berlandieri, 12 1

Index of Animals and Plants Goshawk, Northern, 63 Gossamer Wings, 158 Grackle spp., 12, 18, 24, 100 Grama spp., 9, 10, 12 Grapta spp., 161 Graptemys spp., 120 Grayling, Blue-eyed, 163 Grebe Eared, 30, 53 Horned, 27, 28, 30, 53 Least, 53 Pied-billed, 22, 30, 34, 38, 40, 53 Red-necked, 53 Western, 25, 54 Greenthread, ix Greenwing, Dyonis, 162 Grosbeak Black-headed, 95 Blue, 26, 40, 45, 95 Evening, 101 Rose-breasted, 39, 95 Ground-Dove, Common, 25, 74 Ground Squirrel. See Squirrel, Ground GRUIDAE, 66 GRUIFORMES, 65 GRUINAE, 66 Grus spp., 66 Guiraca caerulea, 95 Gull Bonaparte's, 28, 72 California, 25, 72 Franklin's, 40, 71 Glaucous, 40, 72 Herring, 28, 72 Laughing, 71 Little, 45, 72 Mew, 25, 72 Ring-billed, 19, 21, 28, 45, 72 Sabine's, 40, 72 Thayer's, 72 Gulls, 66, 71 Guppy, 140 Gyalopion canum, 125 Hackberry, sugar, 10, 12, 13 Hackberry Butterfly, 162

191

Hackberry Emperor, 162 Hairstreak spp., 15 8 -159 Haliaeetus leucocephalus, 62 Hares, 107 Harrier, Northern, 45, 62 Harvester, 158 Hawaiia minuscula, 149 Hawk Broad-winged, 21, 63 Cooper's, 21, 35, 62 Ferruginous, 45, 63 Harris', 45, 63 Marsh, 62 Red-shouldered, 17, 18, 19, 33, 35, 44, 63

Red-tailed, 21, 35, 40, 45, 63 Rough-legged, 45, 63 Sharp-shinned, 62 Swainson's, 63 White-tailed, 63 Zone-tailed, 18, 63 HELICIDAE, 15 1 Helicina orbiculata, 147 HELICINIDAE, 147 Helicodiscus spp., 148 Heliconius charitonius vazquezae, 161 Heliopetes spp., 155 Helix aspersa, 151 Helmitheros vermivorus, 93 Hemiargus spp., 159, 160 Hemidactylus turcicus, 121 Heraclides spp., 157 Hermeuptychia hermes, 163 Heron spp., 55-56 Herring, Skipjack, 134 Hesperia spp., 15 5 -15 6 HESPERIIDAE, 154 HESPERIOIDEA, 152, 154 Heterodon spp., 125 HETEROMYIDAE, 108 HETERURETHRA, 148 Hilaria belangeri, 9, 10 Himantopus mexicanus, 67 HIRUNDINIDAE, 82 HIRUNDININAE, 82 Hirundo spp., 83

192

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Hoary Edge, 154 Hog, 103 Holbrookia spp., 122 HOLOPODA, 149 Holospira spp., 150 Horse, 103 Hummingbird spp., 8, 12, 22, 47, 77 Hybognathus spp., 135 HYDROBATIDAE, 54 Hyla spp., 12, 1 1 6 - 1 1 7 Hylephila phyleus phyleus, 156 HYLIDAE, 116 Hylocichla mustelina, 87 Hypostomus sp., 138 Hypsiglena torguata jani, 8, 125 Ibis spp., 24, 40, 57 ICTALURIDAE, 137 Ictalurus spp., 13 7 -13 8 Icteria virens, 94 ICTERINAE, 99 ICTERINI, 100 Icterus spp., 10 0 -10 1 Ictinia mississippiensis, 62 Ictiobus spp., 137 Ilex vomitoria, 13 Incisalia henrici solata, 159 Indian blanket, ix Indiangrass, yellow. 12, 31 INSECTA, 154 INSECTIVORA, 104 Isabella Tiger, 161 Isoetes lithophylla, 9, 37 Ixobrychus exilis, 55 Ixoreus naevius, 88 Jacana, Northern, 40, 67 facana spinosa, 67 JACANIDAE, 67 JACANOIDEA, 67 Jackrabbit, Black-tailed, 37, 44, 107 Jaeger spp., 25, 71

Jaguar, 112 Jay Blue, ix, 12, 42, 43, 47, 83 Green, 83 Scrub, 8, 22, 26, 29, 30, 37, 42, 44, 45, 47, 84 Steller's, 83 Jointed-leg invertebrates, 154 Juglans spp., 9 -10 Julia, 161 Junco spp., 42, 99 funco hyemalis, 99 Juniper, Ashe, 10, n , 22, 25, 48 Juniperus ashei, 10, n , 29, 48 Junonia spp., 162 Kestrel, American, 21, 64 kidneywood, Texas, 31 Killdeer, 67 Killifish spp., 139 -14 0 Kingbird spp., 12, 44, 47, 82 Kingfisher Belted, 37, 78 Green, 21, 30, 31, 33, 34, 47, 48, 49, 78 Ringed, 27, 41, 78 Kinglet Golden-crowned, 17, 21, 22, 35, 4 3 , 86

Ruby-crowned, 21, 22, 42, 43, 86

Kingsnake spp., 12 5 -12 6 KINOSTERNIDAE, 119 Kinosternon spp., 119 Kiskadee, Great, 24, 81 Kite spp., 62 Kittiwake, Black-legged, 25, 72 Knot, Red, 24, 69 Kricogonia spp., 158 LACERTILIA, 12 1 Lacinia, 161 Lady spp., 16 1-16 2 Lagodon rhomboides, 143 LAGOMO RPHA, 107

Lamellaxis mauritianus, 149

Index of Animals and Plants Lampropeltis spp., 12 5 -12 6 LANIIDAE, 89 LANIINAE, 89 Lanius ludovicianus, 89 LARI, 71 LARIDAE, 71 LARINAE, 71 Lark, Horned, 45, 82 Larus spp., 25, 7 1-7 2 Lasionycteris noctivagans, 105 Lasiurus spp., 105 Laviana, 155 Lavinia, 162 Lazydaisies, ix Leafwing, Tropical, 162 Lehmannia poirieri, 148 LEPIDOPTERA, 152, 154 LEPISOSTEIDAE, 133 Lepisosteus spp., 133 Lepomis spp., 14 1-14 2 LEPORIDAE, 107 LEPTODACTYLIDAE, 116 Leptotes spp., 159 LEPTOTYPHLOPIDAE, 124 Leptotyphlops dulcis dulcis, 124 Lepus californicus, 107 Lerema accius, 156 Lerodea eufala, 156 Libythea bachmanii, 160 Libytheana spp., 160 LIBYTHEIDAE, 160 LIMACIDAE, 148 Limax spp., 148 Limenitis spp., 162 LIMNODROMINI, 70 Limnodromus spp., 70 Limnothlypis swainsonii, 93 Limosa spp., 69 LIMOSINI, 69 Lion, Mountain, i n Livebearers, 140 Lizard spp., 8, 12, 12 2 -12 4 Lizards, 121 Alligator, 124 Collared, 122 Earless, 122

Glass, 124 Horned, 122 Leopard, 122 Side-blotched, 122 Spiny, 122 Tree, 122 Logperch spp., 143 Longspur spp., 45, 99 Longtail spp., 154 Longwing, Zebra, 161 Loon Common, 27, 28, 41, 53 Pacific, 25, 30, 53 Red-throated, 25, 53 Lophodytes cucullatus, 61 LORICARIIDAE, 138 Loxia curvirostra, 101 Lupinus spp., ix, 12 Lutia canadensis, i n Lycaena spp., 159 -16 0 LYCAENIDAE, 158 Lynx rufus, 112 Lyside, 158 Lythrurus fumeus, 135 Macrohybopsis spp., 135 Madrone, 48 Madtom spp., 138 Mahonia trifoliolata, x, 31 Malachite, 162 Mallard, 59 MAMMALIA, 104 Mammals, 103, 104 Maple, big-tooth, 48 Marpesia chiron, 162 Martin, Purple, 82 Massasauga, Western, 130 Masticophis spp., 126 Meadowlark spp., 42, 99 Meganostoma caesonia, 158 MEG ATHYMIDAE, 15 7 Megathymus spp., 157 Megisto spp., 163 Melanerpes spp., 8, 12, 78-79 Melanitta spp., 60 MELEAGRIDINAE, 65

194

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Meleagris gallopavo, 65 Melitaea spp., 161 Melospiza spp., 98 Menidia spp., 140 Mephitis mephitis, i n Merganser spp., 27, 28, 61 MERGINI, 60 Mergus spp., 61 Merlin, 64 Mescalbean, 10, 31 Mesodon spp., 150 Mesomphix friabilis, 149 Mesquite, honey, 10, 12 Mestra spp., 162 Metalmark spp., 160 Metastoma spp., 150 Mexican-buckeye, 31 Mice, 109 Microceramus spp., 150 MICROHYLIDAE, 118 Micropogonias undulatus, 143 Micropterus spp., 142 Micrurus fulvius tener, 126, 129 Milax gagates, 148 Milkweed Butterflies, 163 MIMIDAE, 88 Mimosa, fragrant, 31 Mimosa borealis, 31 Mimus polyglottos, 88 Ministrymon clytie, 159 Mink, i n Minnow spp., 13 5 -13 6 , 139 Minytrema melanops, 137 Mitoura spp., 159 Mniotilta varia, 93 Mockingbird, Northern, 88 Mole, Eastern, 12, 104 Molly spp., 140 MOLOSSIDAE, 106 Molothrus spp., 100 Monarch, 163 Moorhen, Common, 66 MORMOOPIDAE, 104 Mormoops megalophylla, 104 Morone chrysops, 141 saxatilis, 141

Mosquitofish, Western, 140 Moss, Spanish, 105 MOTACILLIDAE, 88 Moths, 152, 154 Mountain boomer, 122 Mountain laurel, 10 Mourning Cloak, 161 Mouse spp., 8, 12, 10 8 -110 Moxostoma congestum, 137 Mugil spp., 144 MUGILIDAE, 144 Muhlenbergia reverchonii, 10 Muhly, seep, 10 Mullet spp., 144 MURIDAE, 109 MUSCICAPIDAE, 86 Mus musculus, n o Mustela spp., i n MUSTELIDAE, i n Myadestes townsendi, 87 Mycteria americana, 57 MYCTERIINI, 57 Myiarchus spp., 8, 12, 81 Myiopsitta monachus, 74 Myocastor coypus, n o MYOCASTORIDAE, n o Myotis velifer incautus, 8, 105 Nastra julia, 156 Nathalis iole, 158 Needlefish, Atlantic, 139 NEOGNATHAE, 53 NEOMORPHINAE, 74 Neonympha spp., 163 NEORNITHES, 53 Neotoma spp., 12, 109 Nerodia spp., 12, 126 Newt, Central, 12, 115 Nighthawk spp., 24, 25, 42, 76 Night-Heron spp., 21, 22, 24, 41, 56 Nightjars, 76 Nolina lindheimeriana, 31 Notemigonus crysoleucas, 135

Notiosorex crawfordi, 104 Notophthalmus viridescens louisianensis, 12, 115

Index of Animals and Plants Notropis spp., 13 5 -13 6 Notuius spp., 138 NUMENIINI, 68 Numenius spp., 68-69 Nuthatch spp., 17, 21, 38, 84, 85 Nutria, n o Nyctea scandiaca, 75 Nycticeius humeralis, 106 NYCTICORACINI, 56 Nycticorax spp., 56 Nyctidromus albicollis, 76 Nyctinomops macrotis, 107 NYMPHALIDAE, 160 Nymphalis antiop a lintnerii, 161 Oak Blackjack, 9, n , 13 Lacey, 48 live, plateau, 10, n , 40 post, 9, 11, 13, 29, 40 shin, 10 Spanish (Texas), 10, 48 Obedient-plant, 12 Oceanodioma castio, 54 Ocelot, 112 Odocoileus virginianus, 112 ODONTOPHORINAE, 65 Oenothera speciosa, ix Oilbirds, 76 Oldsquaw, 41, 60 Oligyra orbiculata, 147 Oncorhynchus spp., 138 Opeas pyrqula, 149 Opheodrys aestivus, 127 Ophisaurus attenuatus attenuatus, 12, 124 Oporornis spp., 93-94 Opossum, Virginia, 29, 44, 104 Opsopoeodus emiliae, 136 Opuntia spp., 109 Orange spp., 158 Orange Dog, 157 Orangetip, Falcate, 157 Oreoscoptes montanus, 88 Oriole Altamira, 100 Audubon's, 100

195

Baltimore, 39, 101 Black-headed, 100 Bullock's, 23, 39, 40, 101 Hooded, 100 Lichtenstein's, 100 Northern, 23, 39, 40, 101 Orchard, 27, 30, 37, 40, 100 Scott's, 30, 101 ORTHURETHRA, 147 Oscines, 82 Osprey, 18, 19, 25, 26, 30, 31, 44, 4 5 , 62 OSTEICHTHYES, 133 Otala spp., 15 1 Otter, Northern River, i n Otus spp., 75 Ovenbird, 93 Ovis aries, 103 Owl Barn, 45, 75 Barred, 17, 18, 21, 33, 45, 47, 75 Burrowing, 75 Great Horned, 20, 33, 40, 45, 75 Long-eared, 75 Saw-whet, Northern, 75 Screech, 75 Short-eared, 75 Snowy, 75 Oxyura spp., 61 OXYURINI, 61 Paintbrush, Indian, ix Paintbrush, Texas, 12 Pandion haliaetus, 62 PANDIONINAE, 62 Panicum virgatum, 12 Panoguina ocola, 156 Panthera onca, 112 Panthiades m-album m-album, 159 Papilio spp., 157 PAPILIONIDAE, 157 PAPILIONOIDEA, 152, 157 Parabuteo unicinctus, 63 Parakeet spp., 41, 52, 74 Paralichthys lethostigma, 145 Paramidea midea midea, 157

196

Wildlife of South Central Texas

PARIDAE, 84 Parrhasius m-album, 159 Parrot, Red-crowned, 52 Parula spp., 91 Parula Northern, 17, 18, 30, 33, 91 Tropical, 91 PARULINAE, 90 Parus spp., 84 Paspalum, Florida, 13 Paspalum floridanum, 13 Passerculus sandwichensis, 97 Passer domesticus, 102 Passerella iliaca, 98 PASSERES, 82 PASSERIDAE, 102 PASSERIFORMES, 80 Passerina spp., 95 Passerine Birds, 80 Patch spp., 155, 161 Pauraque, 76 Peacock, White, 162 Pearly Eye, 163 Pecan, 10, 13 Peccary, Collared, 112 Peeper, Spring, Northern, 117 PELECANI, 54 PELECANIDAE, 54 PELECANIFORMES, 54 Pelecanus spp., 54 Pelican spp., 19, 24, 36, 38, 40, 45, 54 PELOBATIDAE, 116 Penstemon cobaea, 12 Perch, Pirate, 139 PERCICHTHYIDAE, 141 FERCIDAE, 142 PERCIFORMES, 141 Percina spp., 143 PERISSODACTYLA, 103 Perognathus merriami, 8, 108 Peromyscus spp., 8, 109 Persimmon, Texas, 31 Phaeostrymon alcestis alcestis, 159 Phainopepla, 52

PHALACROCORACIDAE, 54 Phalacrocorax spp., 54 Phalaenoptilus nuttallii, 8, 76 Phalarope spp., 68, 71 PHALAROPODINAE, 71 Phalaropus spp., 71 PHASIANIDAE, 64 PHASIANINAE, 64 PHASIANINI, 64 PHASIANOIDEA, 64 Phasianus colchicus, 64 Pheasant, Ring-necked, 64 Phenacobius mirabilis, 136 Pheucticus spp., 95 Philomachus pugnax, 70 Phlox spp., ix Phoebe spp., 35, 37, 43, 81 Phoebis spp., 158 Pholisora spp., 155 Phrynosoma cornutum, 122 PHRYNOSOMATIDAE, 122 Phyciodes spp., 161 Physostegia pulchella, 12 PICI, 78 PICIDAE, 78 PICIFORMES, 78 PICINAE, 78 Pickerel, Grass, 138 Picoides spp., 8, 79 PIERIDAE, 157 Pieris spp., 157 Pigeon, Passenger, 73 Pike, Northern, 138 Pimephales spp., 136 Pine, loblolly, 13 Pinfish, 132, 143 Pintail, Northern, 38, 59 Pinus taeda, 13 Pipefish spp., 141 Pipilo spp., 8, 96 Pipistrelle, Eastern, 106 Pipistrellus subflavus, 106 Pipit spp., 30, 88 Piranga spp., 94~95

Pitangus sulphuiatus, 81 Pituophis catenifer sayi, 127

Index of Animals and Plants PLATALEINAE, 57 Platanus occidentalis, 13 Plecotus townsendii pallescens, 106 Plegadis spp., 57 Plethodon albaqula, 115 PLETHODONTIDAE, 114 PLEURONECTIFORMES, 145 Plover spp., 45, 66-67 Plum, Oklahoma, 38 Pluvialis spp., 66 Poanes spp., 156 Pochards, 60 Pocket Gopher spp., 108 Pocket Mouse, 8, 108 Podiceps spp., 53 PODICIPEDIDAE, 53 PODICIPEDIFORMES, 53 Podilymbus podiceps, 53 Poecilia spp., 140 POECILIIDAE, 140 Poladryas minuta minuta, 161 Polioptila spp., 86-87 POLIOPTILINI, 86 Polites spp., 156 POLYBORINI, 64 Polyborus plancus, 12, 64 POLY CHRIDAE, 121 Polygonia spp., 161 Polygyra spp., 150 POLYGYRIDAE, 150 Pomoxis spp., 142 Pontia protodice, 157 Pooecetes gramineus, 97 Poorwill, Common, 8, 29, 37, 42,76 Poppymallow, 12 Populus deltoides, 13 Porcupine, Common, n o Porgies, 143 Porphyrula martinica, 65 Porzana Carolina, 65 Prairie-Chicken, Greater, 65 Prairie Dog, Black-tailed, 108 Praticolella spp., 150 Precis spp., 162

197

PROCELLARIIFORMES, 54 PROCYONIDAE, i n Procyon lotor, i n Progne subis, 82 Pronghorn, 112 PROSOBRANCHIATA, 147 Prosopis glandulosa, 10, 12 Protonotaria citrea, 12, 93 Prunus gracilis, 38 Psaltriparus minimus, 84 Pseudacris spp., 12, 117 Pseudemys texana, 120 PSITTACIDAE, 74 PSITTACIFORMES, 74 Pterourus spp., 157 PULMONATA, 147 Punctum vitreum, 148 Pupfish, Red River, 139 Pupilla muscorum, 147 PUPILLIDAE, 147 Pupoides albilabris, 147 Purple, Red-spotted, 162 Pygmy Mouse, 20, 109 Pylodictis olivaris, 138 Pyrameis spp., 162 Pyrgus spp., 155 Pyrocephalus rubinus, 81 Pyrrhanaea andria, 162 Pyrrhuloxia, 23, 30, 95 Quail, 64, 65 Queen spp., 163 Quercus spp., x, 9 - 1 1 Question Mark, 161 Quillwort, rock, 9, 37 Quiscalus spp., 12, 100 Rabbit, Swamp, 12, 107 Rabdotus spp., 150 Raccoon, Common, 29, 44, i n Racer, Yellowbelly, Eastern, 124 Racerunner, Six-lined, 123 Rail spp., 40, 51, 65 RALLIDAE, 65 RALLINAE, 65 Rallus spp., 65

198

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Rambler, Roadside, 156 Rana spp., 12, 118 RANIDAE, 118 Rat spp., 10 8 -110 Rattlesnake spp., 12 9 -13 0 Rattus spp., 10 9 -110 Raven spp., 30, 37, 84 Recurvirostra americana, 67 RECURVIROSTRIDAE, 67 Redbud, Texas, 10 Redhead, 34, 60 Redhorse, Gray, 137 Redstart, American, 93 Reeve, 70 Regina grahamii, 127 Regulus spp., 86 Reithrodontomys spp., 109 REMIZIDAE, 84 Reptiles, 113, 119 REPTILIA, 119 Retinella spp., 149

Rhinocheilus lecontei tessellatus, 8, 127 Ringtail, h i RIODINIDAE, 160 Riparia riparia, 83 Rissa tridactyla, 72 Roadrunner, Greater, 23, 26, 28, 37 , 43 , 74

Robin, American, 87 RODENTIA, 107 Rodents, 107 Rosin weed, 31 Rudd, 1 3 6 Ruff, 24, 40, 70 Rumina decollata, 149 RYNCHOPINAE, 73

Rynchops niger,

73

Sachem, 153, 156 Salamander spp., 12, 1 1 4 - 1 1 5 Salamanders Lungless, 114 Mole, 114 SALAMANDRIDAE, 115 SALIENTIA, 116

Salmon, Coho, 138 SALMONIDAE, 138 SALMONIFORMES, 138 Salpinctes obsoletos, 85

Salvadora grahamiae lineata, 127 Sanderling, 69 Sandpiper spp., 24, 40, 68-70 Sandpipers Calidridine, 69 Tringine, 68 Sapsucker spp., 20, 35, 43, 79 Satan eurystomus, 138 Satyr spp., 163 SATYRIDAE, 163 Satyrium calanus falacer, 159 Satyrus alope, 163 Sayornis spp., 81 Scalopus aquaticus, 12, 104 Scaphiopus spp., 12, 116

Scardinius erythrophthalmus, 136 Scaup spp., 22, 34, 38, 60 Sceloporus spp., 12 2 -12 3

Schizachyrium scoparium, 10, 12, 3 1

SCIAENIDAE, 143

Sciaenops ocellatus, 144 Scincella lateralis, 123 SCINCIDAE, 123 SCIURIDAE, 107 Sciurus spp., 12, 108 SCOLOPACI, 67 SCOLOPACIDAE, 68 SCOLOPACINAE, 68 SCOLOPACINI, 71 SCOLOPACOIDEA, 68 Scolopax minor, 71 Scoter spp., 41, 60 Screech-Owl spp., 33, 43, 45, 75 Seatrout, Spotted, 143 Seedeater, White-collared, 96 Seiurus spp., 93 Selasphorus spp., 77 SEMINONOTIFORMES, 133 Semotilus atromaculatus, 136 SERPENTES, 124

Setophaga ruticilla, 93

Index of Animals and Plants Shad spp., 134 Shark spp., 133 Sharks, Requiem, 133 sheep, domestic, 103 Shiner spp., 13 4 -13 6 Shorebirds, 66 Shoveler, Northern, 22, 59 Shrew spp., 104 Shrike spp., 52, 89 Sialia spp., 87 Sigmodon hispidus, 109 SIGMURETHRA, 148 Silphium laciniatum, 31 SILURIFORMES, 137 Silverside spp., 140 Silverspot, Mexican, 161

Siproeta stelenes biplagiata, 162 Siren, Lesser, Western, 114 SIRENIDAE, 114

Siren intermedia nettingi, 114 Siskin, Pine, 101 Sister, California, 153, 162

Sistrurus catenatus tergeminus, 130

Sitta spp., 84-85 SITTIDAE, 84 SITTINAE, 84 Skimmer, Black, 25, 71, 73 Skink spp., 8, 123 Skipper spp., 15 4 -15 7 Skippers, 152, 154 Giant, 157 True, 154 Skuas, 71 Skunk spp., h i Slider, Red-eared, 120 Snails, Land, 146 Snake spp., 8, 12, 124 -129 Snakeroot, button, 31 Snakes, 121 Blind, 124 Coral, 129 Snipe, Common, 35, 41, 70 Snout, Southern, 160 Softshell spp., 12 1 Solitaire, Townsend's, 87

199

Sonora spp., 127 Sootywing spp., 155 Sophora secundiflora, 10, 31 Sora, 21, 40, 65

Sorghastrum nutans, 12, 31 SORICIDAE, 104 Spadefoot spp., 12, 116 SPARIDAE, 143 Sparrow Bachman's, 52 Baird's, 97 Black-throated, 8, 25, 28, 37, 44, 47, 97 Brewer's, 97 Cassin's, 47, 96 Chipping, 20, 22, 42, 96 Clay-colored, 97 Field, 20, 42, 47, 97 Fox, 20, 23, 33, 98 Grasshopper, 40, 97 Harris', 20, 40, 43, 98 Henslow's, 97 House, 102 Lark, 20, 37, 97 LeConte's, 30, 98 Lincoln's, 20, 33, 35, 40, 43, 98 Olive, 96 Rufous-crowned, 8, 23, 26, 29, 30, 42, 44, 47, 96 Savannah, 97 Sharp-tailed, 98 Song, 20, 35, 98 Swamp, 40, 98 Tree, American, 96 Vesper, 20, 40, 97 White-crowned, 20, 33, 40, 98 White-throated, 33, 40, 43, 98 Sparrows, Old World, 102 Spea multiplicata, 116 Speotyto cunicularia, 75 Spermophilus spp., 8, 10 7-10 8 Sphyrapicus spp., 79 Spiderwort, 13 Spilogale spp., h i SPIRAXIDAE, 149 Spiza spp., 96-97

200

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Spoonbill, Roseate, 36, 40, 57 Sporobolus asper, 12 Sporophila torqueola, 96 SQUALIFORMES, 133 SQUAMATA, 121 Squirrel Flying, Southern, 108 Fox, Eastern, 37, 108 Gray, Eastern, 12, 108 Ground, 8, 39, 107 Rock, 8, 26, 37, 108 Staphylus hayhurstii, 155 Starling, European, 89 Statira, 158 Stelgidopteryx serripennis, 83 Stellula calliope, 77 Stenotrema leai, 150 STERCORARIINAE, 71 Stercorarius spp., 71 Sterna spp., 72-73 STERNINAE, 72 Sternotherus spp., 120 Stilt, Black-necked, 40, 67 Stipa leucotricha, 10, 12 Stizostedion vitreum, 143 Stoneroller, Central, 134 Storeria dekayi texana, 127 Stork, Wood, 31, 36, 55, 57 Storm-Petrel, Band-rumped, 54 Striatura meridionalis, 149 STRIGIDAE, 75 STRIGIFORMES, 75 Strix varia, 75 STROBILOPSIDAE, 147 Strobilops texasiana, 147 Strongylura marina, 139 Strymon spp., 159 Sturnella spp., 99 STURNIDAE, 89 STURNINAE, 89 Sturnus vulgaris, 89 STYLOMMATOPHORA, 147 Suboscines, 80 SUBULINIDAE, 149 Succinea spp., 148

SUC CINEIDAE, 148 Sucker spp., 137 SUIDAE, 103 Sulphur spp., 158 Sunfish spp., 14 1- 14 2 Sus scrofa, 103 Swallow spp., 39, 45, 82-83 Swallowtail spp., 157 Swan spp., 57-58 Swift spp., 76-77 Swifts Apodine, 77 Chaeturine, 76 Swimmers Totipalmate, 54 Tube-nosed, 54 Switchgrass, 12 Sycamore, American, 13, 48 SYLVIINAE, 86 SYLVIINI, 86 Sylvilagus spp., 12, 107 Symphurus plagiusa, 145 Syncholoe spp., 161 SYNGNATHIDAE, 141 Syngnathus spp., 141 Syrichtus spp., 155 Syrrhophus spp., 8, 116 Systasea spp., 155 Tachybaptus spp., 53, 82 Tachycineta thalassina, 83 Tadarida brasiliensis mexicanus, 106 TALPIDAE, 104 Tanager spp., 34, 37, 39, 45, 94-95 Tantilla spp., 8, 127 Taxidea taxus, 8, i n Taxodium distichum, 10 Tayassu tajacu, 112 Teal Blue-winged, 38, 59 Cinnamon, 24, 59 Green-winged, 21, 22, 58 TEIIDAE, 123

Terias spp., i§8

In dex of Anim als and Plan ts Tern Black, 40, 73 Caspian, 72 Common, 72 Forster's, 19, 28, 45, 73 Gull-billed, 72 Least, 73 Royal, 25, 72 Sandwich, 72 Sooty, 25, 73 Terrapene spp., 12, 120 TESTUDINES, 119 TESTUDINIDAE, 121 Tetra, Mexican, 137 TETRAONINAE, 65 Texola elada ulrica, 161 Thamnophis spp., 128 Thanaos funeralis, 155 Theda spp., 159 Thelesperma filifolium, ix Thessalia theona bollii, 161 Thorybes spp., 155 Thrasher Brown, 22, 33, 43, 88 Curve-billed, 23, 47, 88 Long-billed, 23, 25, 88 Sage, 88 THRAUPINAE, 94 THRAUPINI, 94 THRESKIORNITHES, 56 THRESKIORNITHIDAE, 56 THRESKIORNITHINAE, 56 Thrush Gray-cheeked, 39, 87 Hermit, 1 7 , 20, 35, 43, 87 Swainson's, 39, 87 Varied, 88 Wood, 87 Thryomanes bewickii, 85 Thryothoius ludovicianus, 85 Tilapia spp., 144 Tillandsia usneoides, 105 Timetes chiron, 162 Tinantia anomala, x, 31 Titm ouse spp., 35, 42, 43 , H

201

Tits Long-tailed, 84 Penduline, 84 Toad spp., 8, 1 1 7 - 119 , 122 Toads Narrowmouth, 118 Spadefoot, 116 Todies, 78 Tonguefish, Blackcheeked, 132,

145 Topminnow spp., 139 Tortoise, Texas, 121 Tortoises, Gopher, 121 Towhee Brown, 96 Canyon, 8, 28, 44, 96 Green-tailed, 96 Rufous-sided, 20, 24, 33, 35, 96 Toxostoma spp., 88 Trachemys scripta elegans, 120 Tradescantia spp., 13 Tree-Duck spp., 57 Treefrog spp., 12, 116 Tiidens m uticus, 13 Tringa spp., 68 TRINGINI, 68 Triodopsis cragini, 151 TRION Y CH AIDAE, 121 Tripsacum dactyloides, 13 TROCHILIDAE, 77 Troglodytes spp., 86 TROGLODYTIDAE, 85 Trogloglanis pattersoni, 138 Tropidoclonion lineatum, 128 Trout, Rainbow, 138 Tryngites subruficollis, 70 TURDINAE, 87 Turdus migratorius, 87 Turkey, Wild, 26, 37, 42, 64, 65 Turnstone, Ruddy, 69 Turtle spp., 12, 1 1 9 - 1 2 0 Turtle-Dove, Ringed, 52 Turtles Softshell, 121 Water, 120

202

Wildlife of South Central Texas

Tymelicus brettus, 156 Tympanuchus cupido, 65 Typhlomolge spp., 115 TYRANNI, 80 TYRANNIDAE, 80 TYRANNINAE, 81 TYRANNOIDEA, 80 Tyrannus spp., 12, 82

Tyto alba,

75

TYTONIDAE, 75

Ulmus spp., 9, 10, 13 Ungnadia speciosa, 3 1 Ungulates, Even-toed, 112 Urbanus spp., 154 UROCOPTIDAE, 150

Urocyon cinereoargenteus, n o Urosaurus ornatus ornatus, 123 URSIDAE, h i

Ursus americanus,

in

Vanessa spp., 16 1-16 2 Veery, 87 Verdin, 8, 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 37, 44/ 84 Vermivora spp., 90-91 VESPERTILIONIDAE, 105 Viceroy, 162 Victoria stelenes, 162 Violet-ear, Green, 34, 77 VIPERIDAE, 129 Vireo spp., 8, 89-90 Vireo Bell's, 8, 23, 24, 26, 27, 37, 44, 47, 89 Black-capped, 8, 23, 42, 47, 48, 49, 90 Gray, 52 Philadelphia, 39, 90 Red-eyed, 34, 44, 45, 90 Solitary, 17, 24, 34, 43, 90 Warbling, 39, 90 White-eyed, 42, 45, 47, 89 Yellow-green, 44, 90 Yellow-throated, 17, 29, 34, 44, 45, 90

VIREONIDAE, 89 VIREONINAE, 89 Virginia spp., 129 Voles, 109 Vulpes vulpes, 103, n o Vulture spp., 30, 61 Wagtails, 88

Wallengrenia otho otho, 156 Walleye, 143 Walnut spp., 9, 10, 48 Warbler Bay-breasted, 92 Black-and-white, 17, 93 Blackburnian, 92 Blackpoll, 92 Black-throated Blue, 91 Black-throated Gray, 91 Black-throated Green, 92 Blue-winged, 90 Canada, 94 Cape May, 33, 91 Cerulean, 92 Chestnut-sided, 91 Connecticut, 19, 93 Golden-cheeked, 8, 22, 23, 26, 29, 41, 42, 46, 47, 48, 49, 92 Golden-winged, 90 Grace's, 92 Hooded, 13, 18, 33, 94 Kentucky, 13, 18, 33, 93 MacGillivray's, 94 Magnolia, 91 Mourning, 19, 93 Nashville, 91 Orange-crowned, 20, 91 Palm, 92 Pine, 13, 17, 92 Prairie, 92 Prothonotary, 12, 33, 93 Red-faced, 94 Swainson's, 13, 18, 93 Tennessee, 90 Townsend's, 92 Wilson's, 94 Worm-eating, 93

Index of Animals and Plants Yellow, 91 Yellow-rumped; 43, 91 Yellow-throated, 30, 92 Warblers, Old World, 86 Warmouth, 141 Waterthrush spp., 30, 93 Waxwing spp., 43, 89 Weasel, Long-tailed, i n Whimbrel, 68 Whip-poor-will, 76 Whipsnake spp., 126 Whiptail, Spotted, Texas, 123 Whirlabout, 156 Whistling-Duck spp., 22, 24, 40, 57 White, spp., 153, 1 57 -1 58 Wigeon spp., 18, 22, 34, 38, 59 Wildrice, Texas, 34 Wildrye, Canada, 13 Willet, 68 Wilsonia spp., 94 Winecup, 12 Wintergrass, Texas, 10, 12 Wolf spp., n o Woodcock, American, 32, 33, 43, 7i Wood Nymph, Large, 163 Woodpecker Acorn, 78 Downy, 20, 33, 44, 79 Golden-fronted, 8, 23, 24, 27, 35, 37, 44, 47, 78 Hairy, 33, 79 Ladder-backed, 8, 20, 23, 30, 35, 37, 40, 42, 79 Lewis', 78

Pileated,

1 3 , 17, 19, 33,

79

203

Red-bellied, 12, 20, 21, 43, 44, 47, 79 Red-headed, 78 Wood-Pewee spp., 80 Woodrat spp., 12, 109 Wood-Warblers, 90 Wren Bewick's, 30, 42, 85 Cactus, 23, 25, 28, 44, 85 Canon, 85 Canyon, 8, 26, 37, 39, 44, 45, 47, 85 Carolina, 20, 21, 35, 42, 43, 85 House, 86 Marsh, 40, 86 Rock, 37, 46, 85 Sedge, 86 Winter, 33, 35, 43, 86

Xamia xami texami, 159 Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus, 99

Xema sabini, 72 XENARTHRA, 107 Yaupon, 13, 36 Yellow spp., 158 Yellowlegs spp., 68 Yellowthroat, Common, 40, 94 Zampa, 155 Zenaida spp., 73

Zeiene cesonia cesonia, 158 Zizania texana, 34 Zizula cyna, 159 ZONITIDAE, 149

Zonitoides arboreus, 149 Zonotrichia spp., 98