CORPUS CHRISTI - The topic among vocal birders on the Internet this week is work being done at Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center in Port Aransas to remove the invasive and fast-growing Brazilian pepper trees.
This popular and successful spot built at a wastewater treatment facility attracts both birds and birders. A bird walk is conducted there every Wednesday morning, and birders and novices can get close to many species of birds by walking out on the boardwalk or climbing the accessible tower.
The garden beds along the approach have been attractively planted and are well cared for by the Port Aransas Garden Clubs. A salt marsh with brackish water and cat tails is on the other side of the paved walk at the entrance, the same area that recently has been invaded by pepper trees. It also is the area where winter warblers chase insects and rail voices are heard.
The first comment I noticed on Texbirds, an e-mail discussion list for birders, was made by Jimmy Jackson, a Beeville birder, photographer and ardent conservationist. Jackson was horrified that, in the name of conservation, these large plants on which migratory birds rely for shelter and food, are being removed because of their invasive tendencies.
Mel Cooksey, a well known Corpus Christi birder added, "Although the pepper is a hated invader, it serves a valuable purpose on Mustang and Padre Island where huge numbers of migrant birds have very few food and shelter sources, etc."
Ted Eubanks suggested that birders be willing to donate and volunteer to enhance this location with a diversity of plants not present before the eradication of the pepper trees.
A call to Gary Mysorski, director of parks and recreation for the city of Port Aransas, revealed that the City Council ordered the removal of the female Brazilian pepper trees from both the birding center and Joan and Scott Holt Paradise Pond nearby. The removal is funded by a prize from the 2008 Texas Birding Classic.
How do you tell a female from a male tree? Females have the seeds that are dispersed by the birds who seek shelter in the trees. Removing the females hopefully will take care of the problem while leaving the male trees as habitat crucial for birds.
Upcoming event: Don't forget the Whooping Crane Festival at Port Aransas Feb. 24-27. Information: www.whoopingcranefestival.org or call 361-749-5919.