Texas has four of the country's top 12 bird watching sites, and Port Aransas ranks near the top of the list. Thousands of migratory and resident birds can be seen at area birding locations. Migratory species such as hummingbirds, warblers, flycatchers and orioles (to name a few) join resident herons, gulls, egrets, and Roseate Spoonbills on Mustang Island for a brief rest before taking flight for their spring and fall migration. In addition to bird and native South Texas plant life, the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center is home to "Boots," a six-foot alligator, who is occasionally seen basking in the sun. The Joan & Scott Holt Paradise Pond, off Cut-Off Road, gives visitors the opportunity to relax, watch and listen to birds and ducks from scenic, shaded boardwalks. Visitors to the Port Aransas Wetlands Habitat Park can use the popular boardwalk and gazebo for a fantastic view of shorebirds like plovers and egrets. All centers are open daily. The Port Aransas Visitor Center has brochures listing species of birds likely to be viewed and additional information on birding in the area.