Nearby Nature

Matagorda Nature Tour

See the beauty of Matagorda by boat. Specializing in photography and birding tours.

November 26, 2025: Yesterday’s boat ride up the Colorado River was the perfect way to spend a birthday morning.
I had no idea the river was so wide; I was picturing something like a stream with overhead branches or 20 foot alligators to avoid as I focused on birds.

Perfect time of day to arrive for the tour. This is Matagorda Harbor.

Capt. Margie of Matagorda Nature Tour out of Matagorda knew I was into nature photography – especially birds, therefore had an idea of where to take us where she was familiar from her many trips along the river. She also has a good eye for spotting them. For example – there’s a Little Blue Heron to the right of that Great Egret. Found the egret easily – it is big and white, but took me a minute to see the heron which was trying to blend into the environment.
Speaking of environment, this was cool for backgrounds other than my usual at the marsh and bay.

Of particular interest was an eagle’s nest that would hopefully have a couple of eagles nearby. Right on cue, the Bald Eagle pair showed up. Now, I personally know of three eagles’ nests: one I can cycle to, one I drive to, and another a boat is required.
Along the way Capt. Margie pointed out a Kingfisher which was too quick for me. There were several of many species including Ospreys, also. I needed a decent Osprey photo since the only one I had wasn’t very special. One Osprey in particular posed for me. Thank you very much Mr Osprey and Capt. Margie.

Yesterday was not a Roseate Spoonbill kind of day; another trip is in order. Can’t wait.

Bridge and barge. Love the unobstructed view from our seats which were super comfortable with good back support.
Oh! I’m at Sault Ste. Marie! Just kidding. Check with Margie about how many. Quite sure she said three nearby: Matagorda, Sargent, and Galveston?
This was huge.
Beautiful views as we ambled by.
Great Blue Heron
Little Blue Heron. I had to look it up in Merlin to be sure it was not a Reddish Heron.
Osprey – you know how a dog shakes water off itself, this is what the Osprey looked like.
One of my favorite shots of the day.
My favorite.
Nice view!
People were coming out to enjoy the day.
I believe this is the first missed shot of a Bald Eagle.
Here they are posing for us!
When your tour guide asks if you want to stop and get closer…..
….take her advice…..
…..and say “YES! Please.”
…otherwise, you will get crappy shots like these.
There were so many different birds there that I could have done better photography had I agreed to stop for a photo shoot. I’ll know better next time!
Back at the harbor.
Capt Margie knows her boating and knows every twist and turn amid that maze of waterways.
See the beauty of Matagorda by boat. Specializing in photography and birding tours.