Bentsen-RGV and the headquarters of the World Birding Center are located 5 miles southwest of Mission. The exhibit hall has some fascinating and educational displays, signed both in English and Spanish. There are exhibits explaining migration and which birds live in the Rio Grande area year-round, which are part-time residents, and which are just passing through. There are displays on nesting and feeding habits. These are more general and, unfortunately, have little information specific to the birds of the area. From here, we went on to the audio exhibit, my favorite area. Headphones are supplied - you just press on the picture of the bird that interests you and you hear its song. There were many birds, all from the area, from which to choose. We then gave a wide birth to the next display, where you step on a scale to find out how many hummingbirds you weigh. The last exhibit is the raptor's theater, where a movie about raptors and their migrations is shown. The Rio Grande Valley is very important for the counting of different species as various migration paths cross overhead. Many people come here just to see the Swainson's and broad-winged hawks.
We then stepped outside to catch the tram ride through the park. While we waited, we checked out the butterfly garden. It was a cloudy day, and we saw one lonely butterfly flitting among the flowers. Farther along, the hummingbird feeders were just as empty. The tram soon arrived and off we went.
Bentsen-RVG state park opened in 1944 and now comprises 760 acres of riparian woodland and thorn scrub. There are lush areas around the Resaca,s which are river channels that fill when the Rio Grande floods. Because of dams, the river no longer floods, but the park is trying to keep the resacas to their natural schedule. Six miles of trails wind through the park, and there are many feeding stations and water features along the way to attract birds. There are also two blinds for spying on the more shy birds.
Our tram, pulled by a pick-up, glided along the road. A volunteer told us the history of the park and the surrounding area, pointed out unusual plant life, and most importantly, knew where to stop and look for birds. For every bird we spotted, she could tell us its various names and habits. I was impressed. If any passenger saw something of interest, the tram would stop and the guide would explain. It was an informative and fun ride.
Cars are no longer allowed, but bicycles are. The campground/trailer park is no longer in service, only primitive campsites, with reservations, are offered. There is a beautiful, shady picnic area near the entrance. Nature walks, workshops, and seminars are offered. Check out the park's website for details and the Bentsen bird list. The park is open 7am to 10pm. Admission is $5 per person. For tram times, call 956/585-1107. For rare bird alerts, call 956/584-2731.