Located on the Bolivar Peninsula, the Smith Oaks Rookery in High Island, Texas, is one of the most renowned birding destinations in North America. Managed by Houston Audubon, this sanctuary features a specialized Rookery Pond with an elevated “Canopy Walk,” offering eye-level views of nesting waterbirds.
It is a critical stopover for migratory species and a premier location for photographers seeking up-close encounters with Roseate Spoonbills, Great Egrets, and Neotropic Cormorants.
Scouting the Skies: MY Morning at the High Island Rookery
Yesterday morning, I took a quick trip over to High Island to scout the Smith Oaks Rookery. With a video shoot for the Bird On Bolivar Peninsula Show scheduled for next week, I wanted to see exactly how the nesting season was progressing.
A Misty Start
When I arrived, the air was thick with a heavy haze—that classic coastal mix of fog and overcast skies. The parking lot was empty, giving me a rare, quiet moment to appreciate the sanctuary. As I stepped onto the Canopy Walk, the local wildlife was already active:
- The Welcome Committee: A vibrant Northern Cardinal was singing loudly from the brush.
- The Usual Suspects: The local vultures (buzzards) were perched in their regular tree but took flight as I passed.
The Sound of Nesting Season
As I approached the Rookery Pond, the silence was replaced by the, wonderful sound of a thriving colony. For a photographer or videographer, that sound is pure gold—it means the birds are active, social, and ready for their close-ups.
I set up my tripod and camera along the path to capture some video and stills. The standout observation? The Roseate Spoonbills. Their numbers have easily doubled since my visit just last week. Their bright pink plumage popped beautifully against the muted, foggy backdrop, and they are clearly settling in for a busy season.
A Growing Crowd
By the time I packed up around 10:45 AM to head back to Crystal Beach for an 11:00 AM photo shoot (yes I was late), the secret was out. The once-empty parking lot now had six or seven cars. I chatted with a few fellow nature lovers on my way out—two of whom were visiting the Rookery for the very first time. It’s always a treat to see people experience the “pink wave” of the spoonbills for the first time.
The scouting trip was a total success. The birds are back, the numbers are climbing, and we are officially dialed in for next week’s video work!
