📢Attention Vendors! 📢 Our Hummingbird Morning is coming up, and we’re looking for: ✨ Handmade + artisan items ✨ Eco-friendly crafts ✨ Food & drinks (easy to grab + enjoy while walking) 📅 Saturday, September 13 | 📍 Quinta Mazatlan | 🕑 9am - 1pm Interested? Message us or email vvillarreal@mcallen.net to apply. Limited spots available! 💚

It’s back! Our 4th Annual Hummingbird Cupcake Contest is happening during Hummingbird Morning! Bakers, this is your chance to show off your sweetest take on the classic Hummingbird Cake in cupcake style! 📅 Saturday, September 13 | 📍 Quinta Mazatlán Cottage Room 🏆 Prizes + bragging rights! Want to enter? Message us or email vvillarreal@mcallen.net to sign up. Let’s make this year the sweetest yet! 💛

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We are excited to welcome back our weekly "Walk With A Naturalist" program. Join us on Wednesday mornings at 9 a.m. to explore the trails and observe changes through the seasons. As we near the end of summer, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are beginning to move through the park, preparing for their southward journey. Granjeno berries are still abundant, the cicadas are continue to sing their song, and the Chachalacas are raising their summer fledglings. Program is included with park admission ($3 adults $2 seniors & children).

Join USGBC South Texas Regional Council for an engaging presentation exploring how financial incentive can drive energy efficiency and sustainable objectives in both the public and private sectors. Three featured speakers will share success stories and practical finding insights: from city-wide green infrastructure initiatives to university campus upgrades, to privately owned facilities through the use of programs such as SECO and PACE. Whether you're a policymaker, facility manager, business owner, or financial institution, you'll gain valuable insights into grants, loans, and other funding opportunities that make sustainable building improvements not only possible but profitable. #thursdaynightlive #PACE #mcallenevents #quintamzazatlan #sustinablefuturefortexas

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You may have noticed more hummingbirds over the past couple of weeks, and that's because we are entering hummingbird migration season! Read the blog to learn more about hummingbirds in the Rio Grande Valley, how to attract them to your yard (hint: it involves plants), and more! https://cuefornature.wordpress.com/2025/08/26/september-is-for-the-hummingbirds/

Join us on September 13, 2025 as we celebrate hummingbird migration through the Rio Grande Valley. Hummingbird Morning at Quinta Mazatlan features gardens tours to look for hummingbirds, along with educational booths to learn about hummingbirds and how to attract them to your space. There will also be a hummingbird marketplace with food, native plant, and other merchandise vendors, a cupcake contest, activities, and more! Admission is $5, with children 2 and under free.

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We’re continuing to celebrate #BatWeek at this Saturday’s STEM Stops! 🦇Join Environmental Education Specialist, Josue to explore native bats to the RGV and the special relationships they have with the world around them, from 11am, 1pm and 3pm. #STEM #southtexasecology

From roosting in palm fronds to patrolling nighttime skies, bats contribute immensely to the health of the region’s habitats. 🦇🌴 Join us at today's STEM Stops to learn more about the fascinating world of bats! #STEM #Southtexasecology #mcallenevents #findyourpark

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Join Environmental Education Specialist, Josue Ayala for a presentation exploring Bats and their unique role in our ecosystem and relation to our region, Thursday, August 28, beginning at 6:00pm! ✨🦇This program is free with general admission.

Have you heard of the Valley’s native bats and their unique connection to one of our most iconic native trees: The Sabal Palm? 🦇🌴🦇Join Josue Ayala, to learn how bats contribute immensely to the health of the region’s habitats and practical ways for families and gardeners to make their own spaces more bat-friendly.🌼✨ Ayala’s love for nature was sparked by the landscapes of the RGV and deepened through his participation in the Texas Master Naturalist program. Though his career began in social work, he now blends his passion for community and conservation as the Vice President of the Native Plant Project and an Environmental Education Specialist at Quinta Mazatlán, where he helps people of all ages connect with the wild spaces around them. #southtexasecology #thursdaynightlive #quintamazatlan #mcallenevents

Join Wild Birds Unlimited at the Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival in November! We’ll be there as a proud sponsor👏Hurry and book one of their amazing birding field trips today - space is limited‼️ Happy birding, from the RGV's friendly backyard bird feeding experts! ❤️🐦 #wbumcallen #rgvbirds #backyardbirding #mcallentexas #riograndevalley #Riograndevalleytexas

Missed our native plant sale this weekend? Don’t worry—we still have plenty of beautiful plants waiting for you! 🌿 Come by the store and take home favorites like Turk’s Cap, Gregg’s Mistflower, Scarlet Sage, and more. These native plants are perfect for attracting birds, butterflies, and other local pollinators to your yard. 🐦🦋🐝 Add a little wild beauty to your garden—while supplies last! 🌱 Happy birding, from the RGV's friendly backyard bird feeding specialists! 💛🐦 #wbumcallen #rgvbirds #BackyardBirding #mcallentexas #riograndevalley #Riograndevalleytexas

This is your sign to add a water feature to your backyard... and it's not just the birds who will thank you! 🐦🐸 This Giant Toad (Rhinella horribilis), also known as the Cane Toad, was spotted enjoying a relaxing dip in a bird bath — complete with a gentle water-drip "massage." Native to the Rio Grande Valley (as well as parts of Mexico, Central, and South America), these hardy amphibians are well-adapted to urban environments. You might even spot one in your own backyard! 🛑 A quick note: Please don’t handle them or let your pets get too close. Cane Toads secrete a toxin that can be deadly to predators and irritating to human skin. It’s always amazing to see wildlife making use of the spaces we influence the most — our own backyards! 🌿 Bonus: If you're a Daily Savings Club member (or thinking about joining), enjoy 15% OFF all our water products from August 28–September 1!* Happy birding, from the RGV's friendly backyard bird feeding specialists! 💛🐦 #wbumcallen #rgvbirds #BackyardBirding #mcallentexas #riograndevalley #Riograndevalleytexas *Offer valid in-store for DSC members at WBU McAllen. Offer not valid on previous purchases or sale items. Offer is valid August 28-September 1, 2025.

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Another summer of Flashlight Nights comes to an end this Tuesday, August 26th. We've enjoyed sharing the beauty and excitement of Quinta Mazatlan after the sun goes down. This year, guests got to see lots of cool wildlife: raccoons, owls, scorpions, cicadas, spiders, toads, lantern click beetles, and more. We hope to see you on Tuesday! Tickets only available via quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com

Take flight into the fascinating world of bats during a special Thursday Night Live presentation, with Environmental Education Specialist, Josue Ayala!🦇✨Guests will learn about the mysterious evolution of bats, their extraordinary adaptations, and the vital relationships they maintain with South Texas plants and landscapes. #southtexasecology #mcallenevents #quintamazatlan

🎉 It’s the 100th episode of WBU's #NatureCentered Podcast this month, and there's a surprise guest joining Brian to celebrate! (Hint: you might recognize the voice in this sneak peek 👀). 🎧 Tune in wherever you get your podcasts or on our website: https://mcallen.wbu.com/nature-centered-onewbu (The podcasters are from the Midwest, but their tips can help in the RGV, too. Keep an eye out for American Goldfinches returning to the RGV to overwinter, for example.) Happy birding, from the RGV's friendly backyard bird feeding experts! ❤️🐦 *Featured Birds may include species from across the USA, not just those seen in Texas' Rio Grande Valley. #wbumcallen #rgvbirds #backyardbirding #mcallentexas #riograndevalley #Riograndevalleytexas #birding #birds #shoplocal #supportsmallbusinessowners #nativeplants #gardening

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Join our native plant practitioners for a workshop that's all about equipping you to design your own garden. Participants will learn about sun and shade mapping, basic landscape design principles, get advice on which plants to use, and most importantly, start a design draft with guidance from our staff. Visit quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com for more details and to reserve your spot.

Summer is not over yet- Just ask the cicadas in the trees! Join us as we explore the life of these summer buzzmakers, and their journey of emergence. #STEM #Southtexasecology #chicharra #mcallenevents #Findyourpark

Join us for a leisurely evening at Quinta Mazatlan, Saturday from 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM, as we celebrate our local bats! Guests will have the opportunity to explore Quinta Mazatlan in the evening (bring a flashlight!), learn about bats at our bat-detector station, and do a bat-related craft activity. Purchase your admission at quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com.

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Today we enjoyed the beautiful sight (and smell) of a Texas Ebony tree planted at Sam Houston Elementary School. It was planted in 2024 as part of a 10,000 square foot Tiny Forest; thanks to the leadership and care of Principal Jessica Lowe and the school staff, it is blooming and thriving. In just a few minutes of visiting the Tiny Forest, we saw butterflies, hummingbirds, and multitudes of flowers. This is just one example of how Quinta Mazatlan works with partners to advance environmental education, eco-tourism, and the environment for the health of all.

Our Valley Birds are renowned 🥰 We are so lucky to have these beautiful birds right in our backyard! 🦚🪶 Happy birding, from the RGV's friendly backyard bird feeding specialists! 💛🐦 #wbumcallen #rgvbirds #backyardbirding #mcallentexas #riograndevalley #Riograndevalleytexas

Backyard Birding Tips

Scorching summer days are tough on birds. Here's how you can help them stay cool and safe this summer! 💧 Provide water: Use a shallow container. The more natural its appearance the more appealing it will be for birds. 🌿 Offer shade: Place water in a shady spot, near shrubs or trees. Nearby cover gives birds a safe escape from predators. 🧼 Keep it clean & fresh: Dirty water can be harmful—refresh it daily if possible! 📷 Image credits via Dreamstime.com 1: ID 123525497 © Davidgn 2: ID 5604918 © Naturesdisplay 3: ID 915296 © Lincolnrogers Happy birding, from the RGV's friendly backyard bird feeding experts! ❤️🐦 #wbumcallen #rgvbirds #backyardbirding #mcallentexas #riograndevalley #Riograndevalleytexas #birding #birds #shoplocal #supportsmallbusinessowners #nativeplants #gardening #NatureCentered #ZEISS #ZEISSNature #birdwatching #BirdCareTips #BackyardBirding #SummerWildlife #NatureLovers

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There are only a few spots left for tomorrow evenings Forest Bathing with you Relational Forest Therapy Guide, beginning at 6:00pm🍃🍃🍃 Pre-Register at: https://quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com #shinrinyoku #forestbathing

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Our next gardening workshop is all about helping you design your garden, just in time for the fall planting season! Our native plant practitioners will share different design examples, share ways to map out your space, and guide you as you start a design for your own space. This workshop is space-limited, so advance registration is required. Reserve your spot at: quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com.

Did you know feathers are more than 90% protein?🪶🪶 🪶🤯 So growing new feathers—which a lot of adult songbirds are doing right now—demands a lot of protein, as well as fats. Most adult songbirds molt (change feathers) once a year, usually after nesting season. Worn feathers drop away and fresh ones emerge. You can make a difference by keeping your feeders full of high-fat, high-protein foods, such as our No-Mess Blends, peanuts, sunflower chips, mealworms, finch blends, and no-melt suets. These essential building blocks will help your birds maintain their health (and good looks!) throughout the molt. Keep your eyes peeled for these American Goldfinches in the coming months, as some come to overwinter in the Rio Grande Valley. 🎤🗓️ And don't miss the great FREE TALK THIS SATURDAY the 23rd with well-known local native plant expert Anita Westervelt! She'll teach us about the 12 native plants sure to bring HUMMINGBIRDS to your yard! 🌺 Be sure to stay after for our popular NATIVE PLANT SALE! 🛒🌻🌿 Details: https://www.facebook.com/wbumcallen/events https://mcallen.wbu.com/events Happy birding, from the RGV's friendly backyard bird feeding experts! ❤️🐦 Featured Bird: American Goldfinches WBU Food: Finch Blend Feeder: Quick-Clean™ Medium Finch Feeder (Yellow) #wbumcallen #rgvbirds #backyardbirding #mcallentexas #riograndevalley #Riograndevalleytexas #birding #birds #shoplocal #supportsmallbusinessowners #nativeplants #gardening

🐾 Say hello to our newest cute & cuddly arrivals! 🧸💚 We’ve just stocked up on brand new Fahlo plushes — meet the seal, manatee, koala, and whale! Not only are they absolutely adorable, but each plush comes with a real animal tracking experience 🌍 and supports global nonprofit efforts in animal rehabilitation and research. Not looking for a plush? No worries! ✨ Our new Fahlo bracelets are here too — and now you can track whales and koalas along with your favorite sea turtles, sharks, and more! Swing by the store to meet your new adventure buddy 🐋🐨 Happy birding, from the RGV's friendly backyard bird feeding specialists! 💛🐦 #wbumcallen #rgvbirds #backyardbirding #mcallentexas #riograndevalley #Riograndevalleytexas

Forest Bathing or Shinrin –Yoku is a practice that originated in Japan in the early 1980s. The practice was developed in response to the effects of the technological boom on people’s quality of life, aiming to reduce burnout, stress and reconnect people with nature. Engaging with our environment through multiple senses not only expands our ability to be present, but nurtures our relationship to the land and to each other.🍃✨ Explore Forest Bathing with a Relational Forest Therapy Guide, Thursday August 21st, 6:00pm to 7:00pm. #mcallenevents #shinrinyoku #healthandwellness #quintamazatlan #relationalforesttherapy

From sunbathing on sidewalks to darting underbrush, reptiles are some of the Valley’s most resilient summer survivors.🦎✨ In celebration of World Lizard Day, we’re exploring how lizards and other reptiles thrive in the scorching South Texas sun at this Saturday's STEM Stops! #STEM #FindYourPark #southtexasecology #naturebasedlearning #genSTEMgirls #Scouting

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While it might be hard to imagine now, during the dog days of summer, we are just around the corner from a good time of year to plant a garden. Join our Urban Ecologist, John Brush, for a workshop that covers the basic tools and techniques for native plant gardens and land stewardship. This program is mostly outdoors and involves moving to different locations in the park. We encourage participants to wear comfortable outdoor clothing and bring a reusable water bottle. Register at: quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com/gardening-tools--techniques-workshop-august-2025/

☀️ It might still feel like the height of summer, but some of our migratory birds are already on the move! 🐦✨ We're starting to see the return of a few early travelers here in the Rio Grande Valley — so now’s a great time to dust off those binoculars, keep your feeders fresh and filled, and offer a clean water source for our feathered visitors. Providing safe places to rest and refuel can make all the difference on their journey! 🔍 Keep an eye (and ear!) out for these early arrivals: 🌿 Yellow-breasted Chat – A tricky one to spot! These birds prefer dense thickets, but you might hear their bold, varied songs before you see them. 🌳 Blue-gray Gnatcatcher – These tiny, energetic birds flit through trees with their long tails. They lose their “angry unibrow” outside of breeding season, so they’ll look a bit more subtle right now. 🌼 Yellow Warbler – Insect-lovers through and through, they thrive where native plants support healthy insect life. Their cheerful song sounds like: “sweet sweet sweet, I’m so sweet!” Keep your eyes peeled and share what you spot — we love hearing about your sightings! 📸🐥 Happy birding, from the RGV's friendly backyard bird feeding specialists! 💛🐦 #wbumcallen #rgvbirds #backyardbirding #mcallentexas #riograndevalley #Riograndevalleytexas

McAllen is buzzing with business news! 🐝 Check out the latest updates and see which local businesses are making moves in our community.

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Did You Know?- Today is World Lizard Day! 🦎From sunbathing on sidewalks to darting underbrush, reptiles are some of the Valley’s most resilient summer survivors. ☀️Learn more at this evenings Thursday Night Live presentation by Angela Rojas with our Center for Urban Ecology beginning at 6:00pm! ☀️For continued lizard talk, drop by this Saturday’s STEM Stops. #mcallenevents #STEM #FindYourPark #southtexasecology #naturebasedlearning

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AUGUST 16 at 6:30 PM Through the Eyes of Children A collection of works by children of the RGV Outdoor Exhibit & Artist Reception Special Guest: Sky King Falconry – 7:00 PM 🚌 FREE shuttle service from 1400 Wichita Ave from 6:00–9:00 PM. We recommend parking in that area for the best experience.

Join us for a morning of removing two particular grasses - Buffelgrass and Guinea Grass - from the edges of the Ware Road Tiny Forests. These grasses are known to outcompete smaller plants, inhibit seedling growth, and to be a nuisance in urban landscapes. Parking available at the Elk's Lodge or at Palm View Community Center. All volunteers must register: bit.ly/QMvolunteering

✨ New Jewelry Alert! ✨ We’re thrilled to have fresh pieces in from https://www.facebook.com/dearsearrings - And they’re absolutely stunning! 🌿💎 These nature-inspired earrings and necklaces are the perfect addition to your collection. Think delicate butterfly wings, vibrant hummingbirds, and more designs that celebrate the beauty of the outdoors. 🦋🐦 Stop by and see which one speaks to you—you might just find a new favorite! Happy birding, from the RGV's friendly backyard bird feeding specialists! 💛🐦 #wbumcallen #rgvbirds #backyardbirding #mcallentexas #riograndevalley #Riograndevalleytexas

Experience the magic of McAllen’s incredible biodiversity with Nature Ninja Birding Tours! These upscale birding retreats offer guided excursions, scenic lodging, and unforgettable encounters with our region’s most stunning wildlife. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just discovering the joy of birdwatching, McAllen is the perfect place to spread your wings! Book your spot before they fly away! #McAllenChamber #BirdingInMcAllen #NatureNinja #EcoTourism #VisitMcAllen

Your invited to learn about the different common and not-so-common lizards in South Texas with Angela Rojas, Coordinator for the Center for Urban Ecology! 🦎☀With a background in Biology and long experience as an Interpretive guide, don't miss exploring peak lizard season with Angela, sharing her knowledge about our scaly friends with a presentation and walk on the trails. ✨Thursday, August 14th, 6:00pm to 7:00pm.

Your invited to learn about the different common and not-so-common lizards in South Texas with Angela Rojas, Coordinator for the Center for Urban Ecology! 🦎☀With a background in Biology and long experience as an Interpretive guide, don't miss exploring peak lizard season with Angela, sharing her knowledge about our scaly friends with a presentation and walk on the trails. ✨Thursday, August 14th, 6:00pm to 7:00pm.

Hi folks just a heads up that all spots for tonight's Flashlight Nights program are full. There are still spots available for August 19 and August 26, which are the last two guided night walks for the year. quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com/flashlight-nights-2025/

Hi folks just a heads up that all spots for tonight's Flashlight Nights program are full. There are still spots available for August 19 and August 26, which are the last two guided night walks for the year. quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com/flashlight-nights-2025/

🦋 Who doesn't love butterflies? 🦋 If you want to invite more of these beautiful pollinators into your yard, here are a few simple ways to make your outdoor space butterfly-friendly: 🍓 Add extra nectar Boost their energy with a nectar feeder or a small tray of fruit. Bright colors will catch their eye, and the sweet treats will keep them coming back! This new feeder has all of the crucial features. 🌿 Plant native plants Native plants are the best buffet for local butterflies! Some of our South Texas favorites include: • Crucita (Chromolaena odorata) • Turk’s cap (Malvaviscus drummondii) • Scorpion’s tail (Heliotropium angiospermum) 💧 Offer a water source Butterflies love a good sip! A shallow dish with damp sand or soil—also called a "puddler"—provides hydration and nutrients. Curious about butterfly feeders, nectar, puddling, and native plants? Come by the store—we’d love to help you find the perfect setup for our pollinator pals! 🌼 Happy birding, from the RGV's friendly backyard bird feeding specialists! 💛🐦 #wbumcallen #rgvbirds #backyardbirding #mcallentexas #riograndevalley #Riograndevalleytexas

Events happening this week at Quinta Mazatlan! • Flashlight Nights - Tuesday • Rooted Yoga - Wednesday • Gardening Tools & Techniques Workshop - Saturday • Tai Chi - Saturday • STEM Stops - Saturday

Events happening this week at Quinta Mazatlan! • Flashlight Nights - Tuesday • Rooted Yoga - Wednesday • Gardening Tools & Techniques Workshop - Saturday • Tai Chi - Saturday • STEM Stops - Saturday

There are only three more Flashlight Nights offered this year: August 12th, 19th, and 26th. Join us for a guided walk through the forest where we enjoy the sights and sounds of the night. This is a limited-space program that requires online registration. Program starts at 8:30 and we recommend arriving a few minutes early. Reserve your spots at: quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com

There are only three more Flashlight Nights offered this year: August 12th, 19th, and 26th. Join us for a guided walk through the forest where we enjoy the sights and sounds of the night. This is a limited-space program that requires online registration. Program starts at 8:30 and we recommend arriving a few minutes early. Reserve your spots at: quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com

Join Angela Rojas, Coordinator with the Center for Urban Ecology, to learn about the different common and not-so-common lizards in South Texas! Discover how they communicate, what they eat, and how to make your garden lizard-friendly. 🦎🌱Stay through the full presentation to join a short guided walk and encounter some of our scaly friends, Thursday August 14th, from 6:00pm to 7:00pm. #southtexasecology #mcallenevents #quintamazatlan

Join Angela Rojas, Coordinator with the Center for Urban Ecology, to learn about the different common and not-so-common lizards in South Texas! Discover how they communicate, what they eat, and how to make your garden lizard-friendly. 🦎🌱Stay through the full presentation to join a short guided walk and encounter some of our scaly friends, Thursday August 14th, from 6:00pm to 7:00pm. #southtexasecology #mcallenevents #quintamazatlan

Join us next week for our "Gardening Tools & Techniques Workshop" on August 16. Participants will learn from one of our native plant practitioners about which tools they like to use while gardening, along with demonstrations of how to use them. This is a mostly outdoors workshop, so we recommend you wear comfortable outdoor clothing and bring water. Program requires online registration at: quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com

Join us next week for our "Gardening Tools & Techniques Workshop" on August 16. Participants will learn from one of our native plant practitioners about which tools they like to use while gardening, along with demonstrations of how to use them. This is a mostly outdoors workshop, so we recommend you wear comfortable outdoor clothing and bring water. Program requires online registration at: quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com

We are one week away from Southern Exposures' Youth Nature Photo Contest!📷✨ You're invited to an outdoor exhibition reflecting the natural world through the eyes of young aspiring photographers, beginning at 6:30pm. Joining the fun is special guest: Sky King Falconry,🦅 with an amazing Birds of Prey show. You won't want to miss this special summer evening. #naturephotogrpahy #mcallenevents #southernexposures #celebratingnature

We are one week away from Southern Exposures' Youth Nature Photo Contest!📷✨ You're invited to an outdoor exhibition reflecting the natural world through the eyes of young aspiring photographers, beginning at 6:30pm. Joining the fun is special guest: Sky King Falconry,🦅 with an amazing Birds of Prey show. You won't want to miss this special summer evening. #naturephotogrpahy #mcallenevents #southernexposures #celebratingnature

With bold colors and intricate shapes, passionflowers are among the most eye-catching native wildflowers in the Rio Grande Valley. But there's more to these vines than meets the eye! Discover what Passionflower can teach us at this Saturday's STEM Stops! #naturebasedlearning #STEM #Scouting #FindYourPark #southtexasecology

With bold colors and intricate shapes, passionflowers are among the most eye-catching native wildflowers in the Rio Grande Valley. But there's more to these vines than meets the eye! Discover what Passionflower can teach us at this Saturday's STEM Stops! #naturebasedlearning #STEM #Scouting #FindYourPark #southtexasecology

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Did You Know?- The stinking passionflower has sticky hairs on special leaf-like parts called bracts that can trap tiny insects. These hairs release juices with digestive chemicals that break the insects down. The plant might absorb some of the nutrients, even though it does not fully digest or depend on insects for food. Because of this, scientists call it protocarnivorous meaning it shows early signs of being a meat-eating plant. Learn more about this passionate vine at Saturday STEM Stops✨💜 #STEM #FindYourPark #naturebasedlearning #southtexasecology #mcallenevents

🎷 Tonight’s the night! Celebrate the end of summer with smooth jazz sounds by RGV Jazz Collective from 6:30–8:30pm at Quinta Mazatlán. 🎉 ✨ Enjoy: 🎨 Take-home arts & crafts for the kids 🍽️ Food & drink vendors on-site 🍹 Spirits available for our 21+ guests 🚍 Please note: Due to limited parking, guests are asked to park at 1400 Wichita Ave and ride the free shuttle to and from the event. 🎟️ Tickets are just $5 (children 2 and under are free) and can be purchased at: quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com Purchasing your tickets ahead of time helps us arrange enough seating and allows our vendors to prepare accordingly. We can't wait to celebrate the end of summer with you!

🎷 Tonight’s the night! Celebrate the end of summer with smooth jazz sounds by RGV Jazz Collective from 6:30–8:30pm at Quinta Mazatlán. 🎉 ✨ Enjoy: 🎨 Take-home arts & crafts for the kids 🍽️ Food & drink vendors on-site 🍹 Spirits available for our 21+ guests 🚍 Please note: Due to limited parking, guests are asked to park at 1400 Wichita Ave and ride the free shuttle to and from the event. 🎟️ Tickets are just $5 (children 2 and under are free) and can be purchased at: quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com Purchasing your tickets ahead of time helps us arrange enough seating and allows our vendors to prepare accordingly. We can't wait to celebrate the end of summer with you!

🌿🐦 It’s always been smart to feed our feathered friends… but now it’s smarter than ever! 🧠✨ We’re excited to introduce three new eco-friendly, high-tech additions to our birding collection—perfect for nature lovers and backyard birdwatchers alike: 📸 Birdfy Bamboo Smart Feeder Dual feed containers (no need to choose!) Solar-powered & made from sustainable bamboo 🌱 💪 Birdfy Metal Smart Feeder Adorably compact, super sturdy Comes with a built-in camera to catch every winged visitor in action! 🏠 Birdfy Bamboo Birdhouse with Dual Cameras One camera outside, one inside—watch nesting season without disturbing the birds Solar-powered and beautifully designed All from our friends at https://www.facebook.com/birdfybynetvue/ 💚 Ready to bring the beauty of birdwatching to a whole new level? Swing by the store and check them out! 🎤 🗓️ And don't forget to JOIN US NEXT SATURDAY, August 16th, for a fascinating FREE TALK on how drones are being used for conservation efforts in forestry, environmental sciences, and agroecology here in the RGV! Details on our Events page: https://mcallen.wbu.com/events Happy birding, from the RGV's friendly backyard bird feeding specialists! 💛🐦 #wbumcallen #rgvbirds #backyardbirding #mcallentexas #riograndevalley #Riograndevalleytexas

🚗 Parking Info for Tomorrow’s End of Summer Jazz Party! Due to limited parking at Quinta Mazatlán, we kindly ask guests to park at 1400 Wichita Ave and take advantage of our free charter bus shuttle to and from the event. 🚌 Shuttles will run from 6-9pm throughout the evening to make your arrival and departure smooth and easy! 📍Check out the flyer/map for full details, and don’t forget to pre-purchase your tickets at quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com!

🚗 Parking Info for Tomorrow’s End of Summer Jazz Party! Due to limited parking at Quinta Mazatlán, we kindly ask guests to park at 1400 Wichita Ave and take advantage of our free charter bus shuttle to and from the event. 🚌 Shuttles will run from 6-9pm throughout the evening to make your arrival and departure smooth and easy! 📍Check out the flyer/map for full details, and don’t forget to pre-purchase your tickets at quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com!

ZEISS

#Birdwatching starts with awareness. Study up before you arrive, respect their habitats by observing from a distance, and leave no trace. Let’s protect what we love to watch. Happy birding, from the RGV's friendly backyard bird feeding experts! ❤️🐦 #wbumcallen #rgvbirds #backyardbirding #mcallentexas #riograndevalley #Riograndevalleytexas #birding #birds #shoplocal #supportsmallbusinessowners #nativeplants #gardening #NatureCentered #ZEISS #ZEISSNature #ZEISSSFL50 #50mmbinoculars #BrightOptics

🎷 Our End of Summer Jazz Party is more than just great music, it’s a foodie’s dream! Join us tomorrow night and enjoy a relaxing evening with: ☕ Kreative Grounds – Iced coffee, teas & fresh pastries 🍋 Randerie’s Freshly Squeezed Lemonade – Cool lemonade & popcorn 🍨 La Garrafa Nieve – Authentic Mexican nieve in a variety of flavors 🧀 Malaquite – Made-to-order quesadillas 🍷 El Nopalito – Local handcrafted beer & wine Pair that with the smooth sounds of RGV Jazz Collective and the beautiful setting of Quinta Mazatlán, and you’ve got the perfect summer sendoff! 🎟️ Tickets are $5 | Kids 2 & under are free 🎟️ Please purchase your tickets in advance at quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com so we can plan seating and help our vendors prepare to serve you best!

🎷 Our End of Summer Jazz Party is more than just great music, it’s a foodie’s dream! Join us tomorrow night and enjoy a relaxing evening with: ☕ Kreative Grounds – Iced coffee, teas & fresh pastries 🍋 Randerie’s Freshly Squeezed Lemonade – Cool lemonade & popcorn 🍨 La Garrafa Nieve – Authentic Mexican nieve in a variety of flavors 🧀 Malaquite – Made-to-order quesadillas 🍷 El Nopalito – Local handcrafted beer & wine Pair that with the smooth sounds of RGV Jazz Collective and the beautiful setting of Quinta Mazatlán, and you’ve got the perfect summer sendoff! 🎟️ Tickets are $5 | Kids 2 & under are free 🎟️ Please purchase your tickets in advance at quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com so we can plan seating and help our vendors prepare to serve you best!

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🎷 Sneak Peek! 🎶 Check out this video from Ulysses with the incredible rgvjazzcollective , who will be performing live at our End of Summer Jazz Night this Thursday from 6:30–8:30 PM at Quinta Mazatlán! Grab a refreshing drink or some tasty food from our vendors, and enjoy an unforgettable evening of smooth jazz under the stars. 🌙✨ Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com.

🎷 Sneak Peek! 🎶 Check out this video from Ulysses with the incredible @rgvjazzcollective , who will be performing live at our End of Summer Jazz Night this Thursday from 6:30–8:30 PM at Quinta Mazatlán! Grab a refreshing drink or some tasty food from our vendors, and enjoy an unforgettable evening of smooth jazz under the stars. 🌙✨ Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com.

Events happening this week at Quinta Mazatlan! • Flashlight Nights - Tuesday • Rooted Yoga - Wednesday • Jazz Concert in the Park - Thursday • Tai Chi - Saturday • STEM Stops - Saturday • Stewardship Saturdays - Saturday

Events happening this week at Quinta Mazatlan! • Flashlight Nights - Tuesday • Rooted Yoga - Wednesday • Jazz Concert in the Park - Thursday • Tai Chi - Saturday • STEM Stops - Saturday • Stewardship Saturdays - Saturday

Happy International Owl Awareness Day!🦉❤️ Did you know that many different kinds of owls can be seen here in the Rio Grande Valley? We're lucky to have the Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl and Eastern Screech-Owl year-round. Less common are the Burrowing Owls, Barn Owls, and Great Horned Owls. But even more owls have been recorded, including the Mottled Owl, Long-eared Owl., Stygian Owl, and Short-eared Owl! If you have a favorite owl or an interesting owl sighting, please share whooooooo you saw in the comments!👇 And check out the myths and FAQs from Houston's International Owl Center https://www.internationalowlcenter.org/mythsandfaq.html 🎤 🗓️ Finally, please plan to join us THIS SATURDAY for a fascinating FREE TALK on how drones are being used for conservation efforts in forestry, environmental sciences, and agroecology here in the RGV! Details on our Events page: https://mcallen.wbu.com/events Featured Birds: Barred Owl,* Eastern Screech Owl, & Burrowing Owl Happy birding, from the RGV's friendly backyard bird feeding experts! ❤️🐦 *Featured Birds may include species from across the USA, not just those seen in Texas' Rio Grande Valley. #wbumcallen #rgvbirds #backyardbirding #mcallentexas #riograndevalley #Riograndevalleytexas #birding #birds #shoplocal #supportsmallbusinessowners #nativeplants #gardening

⏳ Last chance! Today is the final day to submit your entries for the Southern Exposures Youth Nature Photo Contest with the Valley Land Fund! 📸 The deadline is TONIGHT at 9 PM, so don’t miss the opportunity to share your best nature shots and be part of this special celebration of the RGV’s natural beauty. We can't wait to see what you’ve captured! 🌿🐾🌞

⏳ Last chance! Today is the final day to submit your entries for the Southern Exposures Youth Nature Photo Contest with the Valley Land Fund! 📸 The deadline is TONIGHT at 9 PM, so don’t miss the opportunity to share your best nature shots and be part of this special celebration of the RGV’s natural beauty. We can't wait to see what you’ve captured! 🌿🐾🌞

Join us at this Saturday's STEM Stops as we dive into the mysterious world of lichen and discover how they thrive in the most unexpected places.✨ #genSTEMgirls #stewardhip #naturebasedlearning #STEM #FindYourPark

Join us at this Saturday's STEM Stops as we dive into the mysterious world of lichen and discover how they thrive in the most unexpected places.✨ #genSTEMgirls #stewardhip #naturebasedlearning #STEM #FindYourPark

Meet Our August Bird of the Month, the Mexican Violetear! Though a rare visitor, this is just one of several hummingbirds that make appearances here in the Rio Grande Valley. Have you been lucky enough to spot a violetear? Fun Facts 🔵 A largish hummingbird common in Mexico and Nicaragua, they usually prefer high-altitude pine and oak forests. 🔵 Named for its blue-violet ear patch, which can fluff up when the bird is agitated. Also has a blue-violet patch on its chest. 🔵 Was once known as the Green Violetear, along with what's now considered a separate species, the Lesser Violetear (which doesn't have the blue-violet patch on its chest). 🔵 Learn more on the Audubon site: https://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/mexican-violetear HOW TO ATTRACT 🔵 Plant natives that produce tubular flowers, especially red or orange ones. Examples include Salvia, Drummond’s Turk’s Cap, Tropical Sage, and Texas Lantana. Local nurseries that specialize in natives can help, like Rancho Lomitas Nursery. @toni_trevino/ 🔵 Hang a red or red-accented hummingbird feeder. Be sure it's safe from cats! 🔵 Use a high-quality nectar like ours, or if you have time, make your own. See our Bird of the Month page for the recipe: https://mcallen.wbu.com/bird-of-the-month (clickable link in our bio's link tree) 🔵 Replace the nectar in your feeders every couple of days to prevent bacteria and mold. Or try our Feeder Fresh™ Nectar Defender™, which contains a bird-safe mineral micronutrient that stops spoilage and helps nectar last for weeks. 🗓️ Don't miss our Aug. 23rd FREE TALK "Bring On the Hummingbirds Using Native Plants," followed by a NATIVE PLANT SALE! Happy birding, from the RGV's friendly backyard bird feeding experts! ❤️🐦 #wbumcallen #rgvbirds #backyardbirding #mcallentexas #riograndevalley #Riograndevalleytexas #birding #birds #shoplocal #supportsmallbusinessowners #nativeplants #gardening

📢 Deadline Extended! There's still time to enter the Southern Exposures Youth Nature Photo Contest hosted by the Valley Land Fund! 📷 Submit your nature photos by Sunday, August 3rd at 9 PM for a chance to be featured and celebrated for your talent. Get outside, get creative, and show us the natural beauty of the RGV through your lens! 🌎🌿✨

📢 Deadline Extended! There's still time to enter the Southern Exposures Youth Nature Photo Contest hosted by the Valley Land Fund! 📷 Submit your nature photos by Sunday, August 3rd at 9 PM for a chance to be featured and celebrated for your talent. Get outside, get creative, and show us the natural beauty of the RGV through your lens! 🌎🌿✨

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Did You Know? - This splatter of color on trees is not Algae, nor moss, it’s Lichen! 💚✨Discover how these fascinating composite organisms came to be, at tomorrow’s STEM Stops! #STEM #FindYourPark #southtexasecology #naturebasedlearning

New Arrival! Fany Mares - "Wildflowers and Cardinal", 24 x 20", acrylic on canvas. Given our status as a birding haven, seeing a cardinal perched on a tree limb in the Rio Grande Valley is not uncommon. But when you spot one, one must always stop and appreciate. Fany Mares' artwork puts the widely loved bird in a whimsical setting of vibrant, colorful wildflowers which adds to the overall bright and uplifting feeling this painting exudes. It's currently on display and available for purchase at Nuevo Santander Gallery. #contemporaryart #texasartist #acrylicart #southwestartist #nuevosantandergallery #texasartgallery #riograndevalley #mcallenartists #cardinal #cardinalart #birdpainting #birdpaintings

New Arrival! Fany Mares - "Wildflowers and Cardinal" 24 x 20", acrylic on canvas. Given our status as a birding haven, seeing a cardinal perched on a tree limb in the Rio Grande Valley is not uncommon. But when you spot one, one must always stop and appreciate. Fany Mares' artwork puts the widely loved bird in a whimsical setting of vibrant, colorful wildflowers which adds to the overall bright and uplifting feeling this painting exudes. It's currently on display and available for purchase at Nuevo Santander Gallery.

📸 Great news, photographers! The deadline to submit your entries for the Valley Land Fund Southern Exposures Youth Nature Photo Contest has been extended to Sunday, August 3rd at 9 PM! Don't miss your chance to showcase the beauty of nature through your lens. Submit your best shots today! 🌿🐦🌅

📸 Great news, photographers! The deadline to submit your entries for the Valley Land Fund Southern Exposures Youth Nature Photo Contest has been extended to Sunday, August 3rd at 9 PM! Don't miss your chance to showcase the beauty of nature through your lens. Submit your best shots today! 🌿🐦🌅

Join one of our native plant practitioners tomorrow for our Plant Propagation Workshop. They'll take you through the steps of growing your own plants, from seed collecting to germination techniques. Participants will also get to take home cuttings of some of our favorite native plants for their own gardens! Online registration required at: quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com/plant-propagation-workshop-august-2025/

Join one of our native plant practitioners tomorrow for our Plant Propagation Workshop. They'll take you through the steps of growing your own plants, from seed collecting to germination techniques. Participants will also get to take home cuttings of some of our favorite native plants for their own gardens! Online registration required at: quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com/plant-propagation-workshop-august-2025/

Many of our native Rio Grande Plants produce fruits, seeds, and/or nectar that birds use for food. For example, our chachalacas and doves are fans of this plant: Rivina humilis, commonly known as Coralito, Bloodberry, or Pigeonberry. The leaves are important for butterfly larvae and javelinas, too! See our website for local nurseries that specialize in plants, shrubs, and trees that are native to the Rio Grande Valley: https://mcallen.wbu.com/local-birding-and-nature-resources 🎤 🗓️ And don't miss our upcoming PLANT SALE and FREE TALK on Saturday, August 23rd: "Bring On the Hummingbirds Using Native Plants." 🌼 🌺 🌸 Local native plant expert Anita Westervelt will be telling us about the 12 locally available plants sure to bring hummingbirds to your garden! 🤩 Details at https://mcallen.wbu.com/events Happy birding, from the RGV's friendly backyard bird feeding experts! ❤️🐦 #wbumcallen #rgvbirds #backyardbirding #mcallentexas #riograndevalley #Riograndevalleytexas #birding #birds #shoplocal #supportsmallbusinessowners #nativeplants #gardening

🐾 Tonight’s the Night! 🐾 Join us at Quinta Mazatlán for one of the final programs of our Thursday Night Live Summer Series featuring Contacto Animal and their amazing live animal show! 🦎🦉🐍 🕡 Event: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM 🎤 Program starts at 7:00 PM sharp 🎟️ Tickets: $5 (Children 2 & under are FREE) 👉 Purchase early at: quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com 🍧 Enjoy delicious treats from La Garrafa Nieve and stay refreshed with Randerie’s Freshly Squeezed Lemonade! 🚌 FREE shuttle service from 1400 Wichita Ave from 6:00–9:00 PM. We recommend parking in that area for the best experience. Arrive early, scan your tickets, grab your seats, and get ready for an exciting and educational night under the trees. 🌿 See you tonight!

🐾 Tonight’s the Night! 🐾 Join us at Quinta Mazatlán for one of the final programs of our Thursday Night Live Summer Series featuring Contacto Animal and their amazing live animal show! 🦎🦉🐍 🕡 Event: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM 🎤 Program starts at 7:00 PM sharp 🎟️ Tickets: $5 (Children 2 & under are FREE) 👉 Purchase early at: quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com 🍧 Enjoy delicious treats from La Garrafa Nieve and stay refreshed with Randerie’s Freshly Squeezed Lemonade! 🚌 FREE shuttle service from 1400 Wichita Ave from 6:00–9:00 PM. We recommend parking in that area for the best experience. Arrive early, scan your tickets, grab your seats, and get ready for an exciting and educational night under the trees. 🌿 See you tonight!

Help Birds Survive the Heat ☀️🐦 In these hot conditions 🔥, you’ll be doing both yourself and your backyard birds 🏡🐥 a big favor by providing a consistent source of water 🚰💙. Water is essential for all birds 🌎🕊️ — whether they visit feeders or not. It’s one of the simplest and most important ways to attract a wider variety of birds to your yard. Besides being crucial for their survival, water also gives you the chance to enjoy their entertaining behavior as they drink, bathe, and preen. 🌿🌼🐦 But beyond the enjoyment, water can be a matter of life or death. Birds need to keep their feathers in top condition to fly, and bathing plays a key role in that. During extreme heat 🌡️, birds can’t sweat — they cool down by panting, which dehydrates them quickly 💦. That’s why a bird bath, fountain, or mister isn't just fun to watch — it could be a lifesaver 🆘🕊️. Happy birding, from the RGV's friendly backyard bird feeding specialists! 💛🐦 #wbumcallen #rgvbirds #backyardbirding #mcallentexas #riograndevalley #Riograndevalleytexas

TOMORROW NIGHT! Contacto Animal is back with their amazing live animal show at Quinta Mazatlán! Get up close with fascinating creatures during this wild and educational evening for the whole family. 🕡 Event: 6:30–8:30 PM 🎤 Program begins at 7 PM 🍔 Food & drink vendors on site 🚌 Free shuttle from 1400 Wichita Ave (6–9 PM) 🎟️ Tickets: $5 | Kids 2 & under FREE 🎫 Purchase here: quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com Don't miss this unforgettable night with nature—see you there!

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TOMORROW NIGHT! Contacto Animal is back with their amazing live animal show at Quinta Mazatlán! Get up close with fascinating creatures during this wild and educational evening for the whole family. 🕡 Event: 6:30–8:30 PM 🎤 Program begins at 7 PM 🍔 Food & drink vendors on site 🚌 Free shuttle from 1400 Wichita Ave (6–9 PM) 🎟️ Tickets: $5 | Kids 2 & under FREE 🎫 Purchase here: quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com Don't miss this unforgettable night with nature—see you there!

ZEISS

Quick Birding Quiz: Do Common Yellowthroats have wing bars? North American birders often recognize the loud witchity-witchity song and the distinctive bandit mask above their namesake yellow throat. But what about the rest of the bird? Let's break it down: Bill Color: Black Legs and Feet Color: Pink Wing Bars: ??? Happy birding and keep an eye out for these charming warblers! 📸 Credit: Jon Corcoran Happy birding, from the RGV's friendly backyard bird feeding experts! ❤️🐦 #savethesongbirds #wbumcallen #rgvbirds #BackyardBirding #mcallentexas #riograndevalley #Riograndevalleytexas #birding #birds #shoplocal #supportsmallbusinessowners #ZEISS #ZEISSNature #birdwatching

Did you catch our colleagues from WBU Dripping Springs, Texas, (@wbuofdrippingspringstx) on the most recent #NatureCentered Podcast🎙️? They're talking all things goldfinch,💛 and how these sunny little birds can look (and act!) a bit different depending on where you live. We don't typically see these cuties in the Rio Grande Valley over the summer, but some American Goldfinches do visit in Fall, Winter, and Spring. And their charming cousins the Lesser Goldfinch are resident here year-round! 🎧 Tune in wherever you get your podcasts or on our website: https://mcallen.wbu.com/nature-centered-onewbu Happy birding, from the RGV's friendly backyard bird feeding experts! ❤️🐦 #wbumcallen #rgvbirds #backyardbirding #mcallentexas #riograndevalley #Riograndevalleytexas #birding #birds #shoplocal #supportsmallbusinessowners #nativeplants #gardening #NatureCentered

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Quinta Mazatlán invites you to a wild and educational evening this Thursday as part of our Thursday Night Live Summer Series. Contacto Animal will be bringing a variety of amazing live animals, including snakes, lizards, toads, parrots, and more for a fun, hands-on experience. The event runs from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, with the live animal program starting at 7:00 PM. Free bus rides will run from 6-9pm from our temporary parking location at 1400 Wichita Ave. Tickets are just $5 per person, and children 2 and under get in free. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to connect with nature, purchase your tickets today at quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com.

Quinta Mazatlán invites you to a wild and educational evening this Thursday as part of our Thursday Night Live Summer Series. Contacto Animal will be bringing a variety of amazing live animals, including snakes, lizards, toads, parrots, and more for a fun, hands-on experience. The event runs from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, with the live animal program starting at 7:00 PM. Free bus rides will run from 6-9pm from our temporary parking location at 1400 Wichita Ave. Tickets are just $5 per person, and children 2 and under get in free. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to connect with nature, purchase your tickets today at quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com.