Where: On the former Rio Grande Delta along the Texas Gulf Coast, 30 miles north of Brownsville.

Habitat: Salt flats, thorny shrubs, mesquite, and cactus complement an extensive coastal savanna.

Wildlife: Originally created for wintering waterfowl, the refuge now attracts more than 400 bird species (highest total in the refuge system), including the green jay, the chachalaca, the great kiskadee, and the rare, endangered aplomado falcon. Chief among the charismatic wildlife are two rare cats: the endangered ocelot and jaguarundi.

Activities: Birdwatching, biking, hiking, auto tour.

Contact: 956-748-3607; http://ifw2irm2.irm1.r2.fws.gov/
refuges/texas/laguna.html