Crested Caracara - Texas City Dike, TX

A Crested Caracara stood watch on the Texas City Dyke, sea spray and stone framing its bold coastal poise. Though often mistaken for a hawk, it belongs to the falcon family, sharing lineage with speedier relatives. In the United States, its range centers on southern Texas and Florida, with a slowly expanding presence. Its habits include walking on the ground, scavenging carrion, and confidently patrolling shorelines and open fields. It is often called the Mexican Eagle, and some believe it is the bird shown on Mexico’s flag and coins. Find this striking bird in Southern Texas.