It is a small oasis in an urban area near Texas A&M - Corpus Christi.
Pat and the late Hans Suter were pioneer environmentalists of the Texas Gulf Coast. Both had careers in chemistry and moved to Corpus Christi in 1954. They worked with area citizens in the 1960s to stop oils from being dumped in Oso Creek and effluent into Corpus Christi Bay. The Suter Wildlife Refuge was first dedicated in 1987. Pat established several conservation groups and continues to volunteer full time in numerous federal, state, and local environmental agencies.
Near the observation deck were several large trees that look like spineless, thornless prickly pears (Opuntia ficus - indica). These plants have been used for centuries as a food source. Both the pads and fruits are edible (although you need to be careful when picking them and preparing the pads). Each flower yields fruit that is used to make juices, jam, and jellies. Because they are drought resistant and easy to grow, there is growing interest in them as a food source due to the high nutritional value of the plant.
A 1.3 mile nature walk provides the opportunity to see local flora and fauna. Palm, mesquite, and Mexican wild olive trees and more can be seen here, as well as some of the thorny prickly pear variety.
This a great location for birding along the western shore of Oso Bay. An 800’ boardwalk leads an observation deck near the water.
Both migratory and native birds can be seen in the refuge. As we walked towards the bay, we saw the this egret and yellow crowned night heron in the trees as well as American white pelicans in the distance.
Many ducks, including these green-winged teals, where swimming in the creek and in the bay.
Our sweet doggie, Sadie, enjoys birdwatching, too!
As we walked through the wooded area of the refuge, we saw lots of nests in the trees.
Additional views of the bay could be seen at the opposite end of the trail where we saw more waterfowl (great blue heron, brown pelicans, and American white pelicans).
Picnic tables can be found in various locations along the trail.
We saw others enjoying the refuge along the trail. It’s great to see the work of local citizens to preserve the natural beauty of the area. There is no fee and leashed dogs are permitted. For directions see www.visitcorpuschristitx.org/see-and-do/833/hans--pat-suter-wildlife-refuge.
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