Description: "Audubon's Oriole Mission Texas" It had been a while since I had seen this variety of Oriole. It is a shy species of woodlands and brush in Mexico and South Texas, so I felt privileged when it emerged from the woods in the background. Photographed at the National Butterfly Center, a private nature preserve operated by the North American Butterfly Association that serves as an outdoor butterfly conservatory. It is located adjacent to Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park, near the city of Mission, Texas. It might be for the butterflies, but the area also attracts many birds. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260327_DSC1573 Alt Text: A striking black-headed bird with vibrant yellow plumage stands on a log. Its sharp features contrast a
Description: "Wood Ducks on Tree Branch" I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw this pair of Wood Ducks on this large dead tree. Yes, they do nest in trees, but this wasn't the closest place to water, as the marshes in this area of the refuge tend to dry out this time of year. Oh yes, it was my birthday, so I considered this my gift from nature :-) 📍Photographed at the Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge in northern Oklahoma. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260509_DSC4588 Alt Text: A pair of wood ducks perched on a tree branch. The vibrant colors of the male contrast with the neutral tones of the female. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Tricolored Heron Preening by Water" I always enjoy walking the boardwalks on South Padre Island, especially during the quiet morning and evening hours. This Tricolored Heron was beautifully lit by the morning sun as it paused to preen along the waters edge, and even better, it was remarkably close to the boardwalk where I was walking. Photographed at the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary, home to approximately one mile of boardwalks stretching across brackish wetlands where fresh and salty waters meet. One turn along the boardwalk leads to the edge of the beautiful Laguna Madre. Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260330_DSC1700
Description: "Pink Water Lily at the National Butterfly Center" While exploring the gardens at the National Butterfly Center in Mission, Texas, this glowing pink water lily stopped me in my tracks. The sunlight lit up the delicate petals so beautifully that it felt like the flower was quietly shining from within. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260327_DSC1524 Alt Text: A delicate pink water lily blooms in the bright sunlight. The vibrant petals contrast with the lush green lily pads surrounding it. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Great Kiskadee Posing in the Sunlight" As I watched along the trails of the National Butterfly Center in Mission, Texas, this Great Kiskadee suddenly landed in a perfect patch of sunlight and seemed to pose just for me. Its bright yellow chest and bold markings glowed against the soft natural background, creating one of those special wildlife moments photographers hope for but can never predict. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260327_DSC1423 Alt Text: A small bird with a bright yellow chest and a black and white head is perched on a tree trunk. The background has a bokeh effect, highlighting the bird. Photography by Debra Martz
Description: "Northern Mockingbird at National Butterfly Center" Perched on a weathered tree trunk beneath the South Texas sun, this Northern Mockingbird, Texas State Bird, was scanning its surroundings. Photographed at the National Butterfly Center in Mission, Texas, I captured the curiosity and natural beauty of one of America’s most recognizable songbirds. The Northern Mockingbird is the state bird of Arkansas, Florida, Tennessee, Texas, and previously South Carolina. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260327_DSC1536 Alt Text: A mockingbird stands perched on a rough-textured tree branch. Sunlight highlights the bird's feathers against a blurred background.
Description: "White Mexican Olive Tree Blossoms in Sunlight" The Mexican Olive Trees were still in full bloom during our visit to South Texas. The clusters of delicate white blossoms glowed in the sunlight against rich green foliage at the end of the flower garden, filled with plants to attract butterflies. This floral close-up captures the elegant beauty of the Mexican Olive tree, also known as the Texas Olive, in full bloom. Photographed at the National Butterfly Center in Mission, Texas. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260327_DSC1510 Alt Text: A cluster of white flowers is displayed against a blurred background. The vibrant green leaves complement the delicate petals beautifully.
Description: Shaggy Pony of the Plains While driving some backroads and looking for birds on fence wires, I saw this shaggy little Shetland-type pony. I loved its soft colors and windblown mane. It seemed perfectly content as it grazed in the pasture. Photographed in the northern plains of Oklahoma. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260507_DSC3635 Alt Text: A small, fluffy pony with a white and brown coat stands in a sunlit pasture. Its mane is windswept, giving it a lively appearance.
Description: "Female Cardinal Perched on Rock" I’ve often noticed a male cardinal appearing first, as if checking the area, before the female follows. Whether instinct or coincidence, it always feels like a small glimpse into their partnership. And soon after, she arrived, calm and composed. Captured at Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park in South Texas, but it could easily have been in my backyard, or many other North American backyards, for that matter. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260327_DSC1387 Alt Text: A female cardinal stands gracefully on a rock, displaying its distinctive orange beak. The bird is captured in sharp focus against a softly blurred background.
Description: "Great Kiskadee Wading in Water at Bentsen Rio Grande Valley State Park" I watched this vivid Great Kiskadee pause in shallow water at Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park, its bright yellow belly glowing in dappled light and just a hint of its yellow crown showing; a brief, quiet moment full of life. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260327_DSC1362 Alt Text: A vibrant Great Kiskadee stands in shallow water at Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park in South Texas, its bright yellow belly glowing in dappled light as it pauses along the water’s edge.
Description: "Northern Cardinal a Symbol of Hope, Love, and Remembrance" A flash of red, a quiet moment, and a feeling you can’t quite explain. Many believe that when a Northern Cardinal appears, it carries a message of love, hope, and remembrance. I captured this one glowing in the sunlight at Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park; a simple moment that felt like so much more. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260327_DSC1355 Alt Text: A vivid red cardinal perches on a branch surrounded by lush green foliage. The bird's striking plumage contrasts beautifully with the greenery.
Description: "Couch's Kingbird on Wire Against Blue Sky | South Texas Bird" I watched and listened to this vibrant Couch's Kingbird pause on a simple wire against a clear blue sky at Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park in South Texas; its bright yellow plumage a bold splash of color as it darted after an insect and returned. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260327_DSC1313 Alt Text: A small yellow bird with a gray head and wings perches delicately on a wire against a deep blue sky. Its posture is alert and graceful.
Description: "Strutting Wild Turkey at Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park" I captured this striking male Wild Turkey as he fanned his tail in a full strutting display along the shoreline of the lake at Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park in South Texas. In the beautiful morning light, I watched as his iridescent feathers shimmered with bronze, green, and copper tones, while the bold red and blue head added vivid contrast. Moments like this are a signature of spring in the Rio Grande Valley—where I’m reminded how powerful and elegant wildlife can be when seen up close in its natural rhythm. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260327_DSC1330 Alt Text: A wild turkey is showcased in full display on a sandy lakeshore. Its feather plumage is rich in deta
Description: "Lincoln’s Sparrow at Bentsen Rio Grande State Park" In the quiet stillness of Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park, this small Lincoln's Sparrow paused just long enough to be seen. Often overlooked among the more vibrantly colored birds, it is softer, with fine streaks, warm earth tones, and a calm, watchful presence. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260327_DSC1346 Alt Text: A close-up portrait of a Lincoln’s Sparrow perched on a sunlit rock, showcasing its finely streaked breast, warm brown tones, and delicate facial markings. Captured in natural light, this small songbird reveals its subtle beauty against a softly blurred background, highlighting both texture and detail. A perfect addition
Description: "Hooded Oriole Santa Ana NWR Texas" I was out looking for a male Hooded Oriole, hoping to find the bright orange adult since they’re starting to show up in South Texas. Instead, I came across a first-year male—vivid yellow but still missing the black bib. Photographed at Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge in the Rio Grande Valley. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260326_DSC1029 Alt Text: A vibrant yellow bird perches gracefully on a rough tree branch. The background is softly blurred, focusing attention on the bird's striking colors.
Description: "Lincoln’s Sparrow Foraging in Lush Ground Cover" Hidden in a carpet of green, this Lincoln’s Sparrow moved quietly, almost invisible unless you know where to look. These shy little sparrows don’t demand attention—they reward patience. A fleeting moment, easily missed, captured just in time. It was near my vehicle in the parking lot of the Convention Center on South Padre Island in Texas. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260403_DSC3150 Alt Text: A sparrow is nestled within a patch of green leaves and small yellow flowers. The bird's brown and white feathers contrast with the vibrant foliage around it.
Description: "Harris’s Hawk Perched on Power Line" Perched on a weathered wire at Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge in South Texas, this Harris’s hawk paused to survey the open sky and gave me a few moments to capture its beauty. Its rich plumage, steady gaze, and powerful stance show a quiet moment of focus and strength. A blend of wild beauty and subtle human presence, this image reflects the resilience and adaptability of this remarkable raptor. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 2026-04-03-_DSC3150 Alt Text: A majestic Harris's Hawk sits gracefully on a cable, its feathers richly colored with earthy tones. The bird's keen gaze is directed off into the distance, against a backdrop of soft, natural
Description: "Tropical Green Jay Bird Close-Up on Branch" One of my favorite birds to find when birdwatching in South Texas is the beautifully colored Green Jay. Here, it seems to have noticed me. Photographed at Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, located near Los Fresnos, Texas. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260403-_DSC2997 AI Text: A vibrant Green Jay (Cyanocorax yncas) perched on a tree branch, captured in natural light. This colorful bird is known for its striking blue, green, and yellow plumage and is commonly found in southern Texas and Central America. This wildlife photography print highlights fine feather detail and natural habitat, making it a perfect piece for bird lovers, nature enthusiasts, and home or office decor.
Description: "Cormorant Profile Portrait" It stayed busy preening for a while after returning to the branch overhanging Alligator Lake, which in turn allowed me time to get both full-length and close-up portrait shots. Photographed at Estero Llano Grande State Park, located in Weslaco, Texas, in the area known as the Rio Grande Valley. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260325_DSC0855 AI Text: A detailed photograph of a cormorant bird with a blurred green background. The bird's sharp features and dark plumage are highlighted in the image.
Description: "Cormorant Preening on a Branch" It stayed busy preening for a while after it made a return to the branch overhanging Alligator Lake. Photographed at Estero Llano Grande State Park, located in Weslaco, Texas, in the area known as the Rio Grande Valley. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260325_DSC0848 AI Text: A cormorant with glossy black feathers spreads its wings on a branch. The natural green backdrop adds to the tranquil setting.
Description: "Kiskadee Enjoying the Sunshine" It was a beautiful morning for a hike as the sun was rising enough to filter through the trees. This Great Kiskadee seemed to enjoy the warmth it provided as it stared up at the light. Photographed at Bentsen Rio Grande State Park, located in Texas, in the area known as the Rio Grande Valley. Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260327_DSC1279 AI Text: A small bird with a white and yellow breast sits on a tree branch. The background is a soft focus of green foliage.
Description: "Rio Grande Valley Wild Tom Turkey" In the past few years, wild Turkeys have been plentiful in South Texas, especially when visiting the Bentsen Rio Grande State Park, where I photographed this Gobbler. Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 20260327_DSC1264 AI Text: A close-up of a wild turkey showcasing its colorful feathers and textured skin. The vibrant blue and red hues contrast with the earthy feathers.
Description: "Couch's Kingbird on a Bare Branch" Similar to several other Kingbirds, especially the Tropical Kingbird, where its call becomes an important ID...and we did hear it. Photographed at Estero Llano Grande State Park, located in Weslaco, Texas, in the area known as the Rio Grande Valley. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Feathered Friends" 2026-03-26_DSC1007 AI Text: A striking yellow bird perches on a bare branch against a vivid blue sky. Its feathers are bright and contrast beautifully with the simplicity of the background.
Description: "Shy White-tipped Dove" The White‑tipped Dove has the largest range in the Americas of any dove, spanning from Texas to Argentina. Shy and unobtrusive, it forages on the forest floor among leaf litter; in the U.S., it’s limited to South Texas. Though it looks to be resting, it was gently preening its feathers. Photographed at Estero Llano Grande State Park, located in Weslaco, Texas, in the area known as the Rio Grande Valley. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved I2026-03-25_DSC0936 AI Text: A small bird is seen preening itself in a natural setting with dry leaves scattered around. The bird's feathers show a mix of soft, earthy shades.
Description: "Purple Orchid Tree Bloom" The Orchid tree blooms resemble those of Orchids grown as houseplants. The trees grow in the tropical climate, including South Texas. They get extremely tall, and I've seen three different colors of blooms: purple, pink, and white. Photographed at Estero Llano Grande State Park's tropical zone, located in Weslaco, Texas, in the area known as the Rio Grande Valley. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Flora" 2026-03-25_DSC0910 AI Text: Close-up of a vibrant purple orchid flower with delicate petals. The background is softly blurred, highlighting the flower's intricate details.
Description: "Black-bellied Whistling-Duck" Wader's Trail offers many opportunities for seeing a variety of water birds. This duck was close to the edge of Dowitcher Pond, one of several ponds on this trail. Photographed at Estero Llano Grande State Park, located in Weslaco, Texas, in an area of the state known as the Rio Grande Valley. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Feathered Friends" 20260325_DSC0886 AI Text: A duck with distinctive plumage stands on a log near a pond. The surrounding grass creates a natural habitat feel.
Description: "Little Blue Heron Perched" Due to drought, the water level of the Dowitcher Pond was quite low. However, there was enough water for some foraging by the birds. This Little Blue landed on this snag as we were walking the trail along the eastern side of the pond. Photographed at Estero Llano Grande State Park in Welaco, Texas, in late March. Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Feathered Friends" 20260325_DSC0750 AI Text: A little blue heron stands gracefully on a branch against a blurred background of greenery. Its sleek, dark feathers contrast with the vibrant surroundings.
Description: "Sparrow Singing Its Song" This little Song Sparrow was moving from branch to branch and even a wire, and it continued singing from each perch. Photographed at Great Salt Plains State Park, located near Jet, Oklahoma. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Feathered Friends" 20260225_DSC0658 AI Text: A small sparrow sits gracefully on a slender, gnarled branch. The background is a soft, blurred mix of earthy tones, accentuating the bird's features.
Description: "Lesser Black-backed Gull at the Spillway" This was the 3rd year in a row that I saw this species of Gull in Oklahoma. It was floating on the middle tier of the lake's spillway, which flows into the Salt Fork of the Arkansas River. Photographed at the Great Salt Plains State Park in northern Oklahoma. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Feathered Friends" 20260105_DSC0115 AI Text: A lone gull floats peacefully on calm water, its reflection mirrored below. The water appears golden with hints of blue ripples.
Description: "Anhinga Profile Portrait" A walk on the trail along Alligator Lake most often rewards the bird watcher with a variety of birds, and yes, sometimes alligators! This Anhinga was on the edge of a tree limb on the bank. Though the wind was moving leaves and twigs back and forth, I was still able to get some good photos of this beautiful bird. Photographed at Estero Llano Grande State Park, located in Weslaco, Texas, in the area known as the Rio Grande Valley. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Feathered Friends" 20260325_DSC0787 AI Text: A beautifully photographed bird showcasing its distinctive long neck and sharp beak. The bird's intricate plumage is highlighted against a soft-focus background.
Description: "Little Blue Heron Landing" Due to drought, the water level of the Dowitcher Pond was quite low. However, there was enough water for some foraging by the birds. This Little Blue landed as we were walking the trail along the eastern side of the pond. Photographed at Estero Llano Grande State Park in Welaco, Texas, in late March. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Feathered Friends" 20260325_DSC0734 AI Text: A heron is seen wading through marshland, surrounded by tall grasses. Its wings are slightly spread, displaying its elegant plumage.
Description: "Ibis Hunting in the Wetlands" This White-faced Ibis was one busy bird, running and hopping with its wings spread as it searched for its prey in the pond. Photographed at the Estero Llano Grande State Park in Weslaco, Texas. Part of the area known as the Rio Grande Valley of Texas. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Feathered Friends" 20260325-_DSC0704 AI Text: An ibis stands in shallow water with wings spread. Its plumage displays rich iridescent colors as it hunts for food.
Description: "Mottled Duck Reflecting on the Pond" This male Mottled Duck was calmly floating in place on the still pond water. Photographed at Estero Llano Grande State Park in Weslaco, Texas. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Feathered Friends: 20260325-_DSC0701 AI Text: A duck glides serenely across a calm pond, surrounded by scattered lily pads. The water reflects its image, creating a mirror-like effect.
Description: "Snowy Egret in Tranquil Waters" Many ponds at Estero Llano Grande attract a large variety of birds. This was taken at the first pond near the visitors' center. The state park is located in Weslaco, Texas, about 5 minutes from the Rio Grande at the Texas/Mexico border. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Feathered Friends" 20260325-_DSC0678 AI Text: A white egret stands in shallow water, perfectly reflected on the surface. It is surrounded by a calm, natural setting with green vegetation.
Description: "Backlit Mexican Olive Flowers" Arriving at the state park at opening time, I spotted the light shining through the bloom of the Mexican Olive Tree. Photographed at Estero Llano Grande State Park in Weslaco, Texas, in March. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved 2026-03-25-_DSC066 AI Text: Delicate white flowers are beautifully backlit by the sun, highlighting their intricate textures. The soft petals contrast against a blurred background.
Description: "Altamira Oriole Peeking Through the Leaves" The largest of the Orioles in the USA, the Altamira can be found from the lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas to Nicaragua. I photographed this one at the Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge, which offers many hiking trails through different habitats. I always birdwatch at this refuge every time I'm in the far South of Texas. ©Debra Martz, All Rights Reserved In My Collection: "Feathered Friends" 20260326-_DSC1019 AI Text: A vibrant orange bird with striking black markings perches among dense green foliage. The bird's colorful plumage contrasts with the muted background, creating a vivid scene.
