Join renowned wildlife photographer Shauna Hart on an exclusive Whooping Crane and Wildlife Photography Tour in the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge and along the South Texas Gulf Coast. This experience offers a rare opportunity to capture the majestic whooping crane in its wintering habitat, alongside a diverse array of Gulf Coast wildlife.

Aransas National Wildlife Refuge in Texas is the primary wintering ground for the endangered whooping crane, one of North America’s tallest and rarest birds. These majestic white birds can be observed as they forage and roost in the refuge’s coastal marshes. Visiting the refuge offers a unique opportunity to witness the conservation success story of the whooping crane, while capturing incredible photographs of these elegant birds in their natural habitat. The mixture of open wetlands and estuarine environments provides exceptional light and scenic backdrops, making it a must-see destination for serious wildlife photographers.Whooping Cranes (Grus americana) currently number about 800 worldwide. Approximately 500 migrate from breeding grounds in the Wood Buffalo area in Canada to the Texas coast in October/November of every year. They mainly feed on blue crabs in the intercoastal waters when the salinity levels are balanced enough to support the blue crab population. They migrate back to Canada to breed around April.

Rockport, Texas, nestled along the Gulf Coast, is a premier destination for wildlife and landscape photographers. Renowned for its rich bird habitats, the area features migratory hotspots teeming with species like Cara Cara, Brown Pelican, Roseate Spoonbill, and Sandhill Cranes. Its coastal wetlands and estuaries provide an unparalleled backdrop for capturing dramatic sunrises and diverse ecosystems. Visiting Rockport offers a unique opportunity to document thriving wildlife in natural settings, making it an essential stop for any serious nature photographer. There are a couple of trails and overlooks built to observe and photograph wildlife on the shores and inland coastal waters such as white tailed deer, migratory birds, coyotes, bobcats, eagles, javelina, etc. The driving loop within Aransas National Wildlife Refuge offers great opportunities for photographic experiences.

Tourism is a large economic driver in the area. Rockport offers a blend of coastal charm and rich wildlife that attracts photographers and tourists alike. Beyond its natural beauty, Rockport boasts a charming downtown with art galleries, local shops, and fresh seafood restaurants, providing a well-rounded experience for visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure. Some say that the oysters harvested from this area are the most delicious in the U.S.!