Starr: River Landscapes, Birdlife and History

The Falcon International Reservoir stretches across 84,000 acres along the Rio Grande. For trip planning, there are also different themes to consider: birdwatching at several named locations, as well as buildings and districts of historic significance. This makes it easy to tailor your stay to your interests in nature or culture.

River Landscapes and Birdwatching

The size of the Falcon International Reservoir gives the river landscape a sense of scale. The wooded areas around Falcon Reservoir are also part of the nature theme: the Falcon Loop identifies them as a habitat for Great Kiskadees, Vermilion Flycatchers, Couch's Kingbirds and migrating land birds. This draws attention to both specific bird species and migrating land birds. Those interested in birdwatching will find a clear connection here to the habitats around the reservoir.

Roma: Views and Bridge History

Roma Bluffs is the only World Birding Center site in Starr County. From the Roma Bluffs World Birding Center, you can enjoy views of the Rio Grande and Mexico. The WBC Roma Bluffs also includes a three-acre natural area along the river. The two areas differ considerably in size: the 84,000-acre reservoir contrasts with the three-acre natural area.

Another historic feature in Roma is the Roma-San Pedro International Bridge. The 700-foot-long steel suspension bridge was built over the Rio Grande in 1928. It is the only surviving suspension bridge on the international border between the United States and Mexico. Its year of construction, material and length make the bridge tangible, as does its distinctive status among surviving border bridges.

Historic Sites in Rio Grande City

The Bessie III Trolley Tour travels through the side streets and to the attractions in Historic Downtown Rio Grande City. The city's history also includes the Old Rio Grande City Cemetery, the resting place of more than 250 members of the Rio Grande City community. The two offer different perspectives: the tour takes you through the historic district, while the cemetery commemorates a large part of the local community.

After the war, Davis officially laid out Rio Grande City, and the city developed into a river port. The Fort Ringgold Historic District and the Rio Grande City Downtown Historic District are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Architecture in the Downtown Historic District reflects French and German influences that reached the region through Mexico. The city's development and its architectural history are thus connected, while the two districts retain their distinct historical emphases.

Birdwatching at Santa Margarita Ranch

Santa Margarita Ranch in Starr County includes a bird sanctuary where Brown Jays can be found. Since it is a private ranch, check access and viewing opportunities in advance. This is especially important if you plan to include birdwatching at the ranch in your trip: Brown Jays inhabit the sanctuary, but a sighting during your visit is not guaranteed.

Discover more destinations: Rio Grande City, Roma, Bexar, Montague, Liberty County, Callahan County, Eastland County, Lamar County.

For the broader travel overview: Texas.