Signs of Spring

Bradford Pear tree at the East Texas Arboretum

With the warmer temperatures, Athens is beginning to see signs of spring.

Beautiful, white blooms of the Bradford Pear trees can be seen throughout town along with a few Redbud trees, a native tree of Texas.

In just a few weeks, we'll begin to see the dogwoods and azaleas begin to bloom. Peak color for the azaleas are anticipated to arrive in late March.

Springtime also brings a diversity of birds during spring migration. There are two identified bird watching locations in Athens; the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center and the East Texas Arboretum and Botanical Society.

The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center offers monthly Bird & Nature Walks the second Saturday of the month. Visitors can expect to see 25 or more different species on each outing. Bring binoculars and a field guide, although it is not required. The Bird and Nature Walks take place from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and are free with regular paid admission.

The East Texas Arboretum spans one hundred acres and includes two miles of nature trails. The gardens will soon come to life and will be bursting with spring color. Explore the Arboretum's nature trails for nature and wildlife viewing opportunities. Interpretive signs will guide you along the winding trail, by a spring-fed stream, across a 115-foot suspension bridge, and by the observation deck to take in the view.

Spring is a great time to visit Athens and to spend time outdoors. For more information, please visit us online at www.AthensTX.org.