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Corpus Christi, TX Animal Ordinances: Bird Protection (2026)

Few Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Federal law
Migratory Bird Treaty Act
Threatened species
Piping plover
Flyway
Central Flyway
Tree trimming with nest
Prohibited until fledging

Summary

Corpus Christi sits on the Central Flyway and within key shorebird habitat, so federal and state laws protect migratory birds, with city construction lighting and tree work restrictions to limit nest disturbance during spring and summer.

PROTECTION OF NONGAME BIRDS. (a) Except as provided by this code, no person may: (1) catch, kill, injure, pursue, or possess, dead or alive, or purchase, sell, expose for sale, transport, ship, or receive or deliver for transportation, a bird that is not a game bird; (2) possess any part of the plumage, skin, or body of a bird that is not a game bird; or (3) disturb or destroy the eggs, nest, or young of a bird that is not a game bird. (b) European starlings, English sparrows, and feral rock doves (Columba livia) may be killed at any time in any manner and their nests or eggs may be destroyed.

Source: Corpus Christi Parks and RecreationView official code

Full Breakdown

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Texas Parks and Wildlife rules protect nearly all native birds, eggs, and active nests in Corpus Christi, including herons, egrets, terns, and the federally threatened piping plover on Padre Island and Mustang Island. The city restricts beach driving and dune access during nesting season, and coordinates with the Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program. Tree trimming with active nests is prohibited until fledging. Construction site lighting near rookeries must be shielded to avoid disorienting migrating birds during spring and fall flights along the flyway.

Violations & Fines

Disturbing or destroying an active nest brings federal penalties of up to 15,000 dollars per violation under MBTA, plus state and city citations and stop-work orders on construction sites until the nest cycle ends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I remove a nest from my eaves?
Only after the nest is empty and the young have fledged. Removing an active nest of a native species is a federal violation, even if the bird is considered a nuisance by the homeowner.
Are pigeons and grackles protected?
European starlings, house sparrows, and feral pigeons are not protected by MBTA, but most other Corpus Christi birds, including grackles and white-winged doves, are covered by federal or state law.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Corpus Christi

Dog Leash LawsLight RestrictionsChickens & LivestockLight RestrictionsBuilding Setbacks & Zoning: Setback RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: RV & Boat ParkingLight RestrictionsVeterinary Clinic ZoningSignificant RestrictionsPet Store RulesSome RestrictionsPet LimitsSome RestrictionsCat RulesLight RestrictionsPet Groomer RulesSome RestrictionsBeekeepingSome RestrictionsMandatory Spay/NeuterSome RestrictionsBreed RestrictionsFew RestrictionsWildlife FeedingSome RestrictionsExotic PetsLight RestrictionsParking Rules: Driveway RulesSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSome RestrictionsFire Regulations: Propane StorageSome RestrictionsBuilding Setbacks & Zoning: Structure Height LimitsSome Restrictions

All Corpus Christi rules

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