Oklahoma, often heralded as the land “where the wind comes sweeping down the plain,” evokes images of vast landscapes and open skies. For many, the name might ring a bell from the classic Rogers and Hammerstein musical, filled with memorable tunes. Inspired by a personal quest and a love for avian exploration, a journey to the western reaches of Oklahoma turned into an unforgettable adventure, proving that Travel Oklahoma offers more than just plains and wind – it’s a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
The initial spark for this Oklahoma expedition was driven by a mission to spot at least 50 bird species in every US state. With Oklahoma lagging behind in the personal count, it became a prime destination. The route to Oklahoma strategically included Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas, all states ripe for birding opportunities. This trip wasn’t just about ticking states off a list; it was about immersing in diverse ecosystems and witnessing the unique birdlife each state had to offer. The journey successfully elevated each of these states above the 50-species mark, with Oklahoma soaring past 100 – a testament to the rich biodiversity waiting to be discovered when you travel Oklahoma.
Welcome to Oklahoma Sign
The ten-day, ten-state road trip, encompassing Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Colorado, New Mexico, Kansas, and Tennessee, was meticulously planned to blend birdwatching with historical exploration. A stop at the Vicksburg, Mississippi Civil War battlefield catered to historical interests while unexpectedly revealing itself as another excellent birding location. The excitement of crossing state lines, heralded by the GPS’s “Welcome to…” announcements, added a layer of thrill to this multi-state adventure, showcasing the diverse experiences you can encounter when you travel Oklahoma and its neighboring states.
Planning Your Birdwatching Trip to Oklahoma
A frequent question from fellow enthusiasts is about finding prime birding spots in unfamiliar states. The answer lies in leveraging digital tools like eBird, a treasure trove for birdwatching information. The planning process begins by identifying a desired destination – be it a national park, state park, or recreation area. eBird’s “Explore” feature, specifically the “Alerts” section, becomes invaluable. By selecting a state or county, birders can identify “needed” species, common birds, and potential “life birds” for that area.
Planning birdwatching trip with maps and notes
While the initial data might seem overwhelming, it provides a crucial starting point. Identifying hotspots along the planned route and checking recent sightings helps narrow down potential locations. Meticulous note-taking, whether in a notebook or on a legal pad, becomes part of the preparation ritual. County maps, both digital and paper, further refine the search, allowing for county-specific eBird “needs” searches. Even impromptu stops at hotel parking lots or rest areas can yield surprising birdwatching opportunities, proving that when you travel Oklahoma, birding adventures can be found in unexpected places.
Oklahoma’s Avian Delights: From Meadowlarks to Ravens
Entering Oklahoma marked a distinct shift in the avian landscape, with western species beginning to dominate. Western Meadowlarks serenaded from every corner, while Mountain Bluebirds added splashes of vibrant color. The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher, Oklahoma’s state bird, made a grand entrance shortly after crossing the border. This “glorious beautiful bird with its salmon under parts and ridiculously long tail” is a must-see for anyone who decides to travel Oklahoma for birding. A roadside stop led to the delightful discovery of Chihuahuan Ravens, initially mistaken for crows due to their size, further highlighting the unique western birdlife of Oklahoma.
Mountain Bluebird and Chihuahuan Raven
The Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge proved to be a highlight, offering exceptional views of western species like the Bewick’s Wren, a western cousin to the Carolina Wren. Venturing further west to Black Mesa State Park, though small, unveiled stunning scenery and rewarding sightings of Sage Thrashers and Woodhouse’s Scrub Jays, western counterparts to familiar eastern birds. Travel Oklahoma to these western regions and you’ll witness a fascinating blend of eastern and western bird species.
Western Meadowlark and Bewick’s Wren
Driving through Oklahoma’s grasslands en route to Black Mesa was an experience in itself. Red-tailed Hawks perched prominently on utility poles, occasionally interspersed with the striking Ferruginous Hawk. The constant melody of Western Meadowlarks filled the air, their songs distinguishable with the help of the Merlin sound app. Fields of sorghum hosted flocks of White-crowned Sparrows, while dirt roads revealed Scaled Quail and Northern Bobwhite, adding to the rich tapestry of birdlife encountered while you travel Oklahoma.
Red-tailed Hawk and Ferruginous Hawk
Exploring the Oklahoma Panhandle and Beyond
Reaching the Oklahoma panhandle, a hike to a portion of Black Mesa, the state’s highest point at 4,973 feet, offered panoramic views. Nearby, the tri-state monument marking the corner of Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Colorado, stood in stark isolation. While birds were scarce in the afternoon heat, a different kind of wildlife emerged – tarantulas! An overnight stay in Kansas, just across the Oklahoma border, facilitated an early morning birding stop at a water treatment plant, yielding a plethora of new state birds, particularly ducks. Water treatment plants often serve as unexpected birding hotspots, a valuable tip for anyone planning to travel Oklahoma and surrounding states for birdwatching.
Black Mesa, highest point in Oklahoma
The Great Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge, while impacted by drought, still teemed with birdlife. Despite diminished marshes and ponds, Franklin’s Gulls, White Pelicans, American Avocets, ducks, and shorebirds congregated around the remaining lake, showcasing nature’s resilience even in challenging conditions. The sight of Snowy Egrets amidst stranded fish underscored the drought’s severity while highlighting the enduring avian presence. Even with environmental challenges, the refuge remains a significant stop when you travel Oklahoma for wildlife viewing.
Snowy Egret and American Avocet
This spontaneous 3,200-mile journey through ten states, with a central focus on Oklahoma, proved to be an extraordinary adventure. Navigating across Oklahoma entirely on state and county roads, at a leisurely 60-65mph, offered an intimate perspective of the landscape rarely experienced on interstate highways. This unconventional route, guided by GPS, exemplifies the spirit of exploration and the rewards of venturing off the beaten path when you travel Oklahoma. For those seeking unique experiences and rich birdlife, Oklahoma beckons as a state ripe for discovery.
Article by Aija Konrad, photos by Ed Konrad
