5 Wildlife Viewing Spots Near Austin

There are numerous nature park and safaris that you can visit during your stay in Austin. It’s easy to escape the city and enjoy the natural world with these 5 Wildlife Viewing Spots.

These selections range from rare bird sightings to other more daring encounters. Please be respectful of your surroundings and follow all safety guidelines established by the venues.

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch isn’t located directly in Austin, but it makes for an excellent day trip. Located about an hour from downtown Austin, it was created in 1984 and has grown to cover 450 acres of land. It is the longest-running and most visited safari park in the state.

Natural Bridge is currently home to around 500 animals and 40 different species. Visitors can observe giraffes, rhinos, zebras, ostrich and many more. The Ranch also offers kid-safe areas that act as educational centers where kids can interact with and learn about the different kinds of animals.

Austin Zoo

Austin Zoo is among Austin’s most visited attractions, and for good reason. The zoo offers a wildlife experience that’s educational and safe for both the visitors and the animals. Austin Zoo is a great place to spot many exotic animals, while learning more about them with the help of trained professionals.

The zoo is home to more than 300 animals of different species including Bengal tiger, African Lions, and porcupines.

Colorado River Park Wildlife Sanctuary

This natural park is known as a place for hiking, biking and enjoying the outdoors. It is also a sanctuary for the local wildlife, with very little infrastructure or human interaction to detract from its natural beauty. This is an important feature for visitors to keep in mind, if they expect modern commodities while hiking.

The place is home to several endangered species that can be spotted here if you are lucky. Keep your eyes open and your ears peeled!

Zilker Nature Preserve

Zilker Nature Preserve is one of the most popular locations in the city, spanning a huge patch of land that serves as both a nature preserve and a park for hiking and swimming in the local lake.

At Zilker Nature Preserve, you may spot some bobcats and glean knowledge from the educational exhibits here. It’s best to use the hiking trails to explore the preserve on your own.

Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve

Mayfield is another popular nature park, known for recreational activities as well as wildlife observation. It is mostly used as a bird sanctuary, and you can score some great sightings just by walking around it quietly.

At least two types of peafowls are present here: the India Blue and the Black Shoulder. The peahen of the Black Shoulder species is mostly white in color. When you visit this place, gear up and try to spot these royal beauties sitting in the trees.

Hunting

It’s important to mention that there’s one more way to encounter wildlife beyond seeing them in their natural habitat: hunting. Hunting is also offered in the Austin area, with both private and public habitats that allow for hunting, in accordance to the seasonal rules and regulations.

These also offer a chance to do so using your own equipment or to rent the equipment offered on the spot. Please keep in mind that it is essential to stick to the safety precautions while doing so.

Conclusion

Beautiful and majestic wildlife can be found in every corner of the Austin area, if you know where to look. You should take advantage of this opportunity to witness all forms of the natural beauty that Austin, Texas has to offer.