Padre Island National Seashore

This episode dives into the rich and layered history of Padre Island, the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world. From its early indigenous inhabitants, the Karankawa, through colonial claims by Spain, Mexico, the Republic of Texas, and finally the U.S., the island has a complex past. Listeners learn about Padre Nicolas Ballí, the island's namesake, and how the land served as a naval bombing range during WWII.

Today, Padre Island National Seashore is a haven for wildlife and nature lovers, boasting over 400 plant species and nearly half of all bird species in North America. It’s also a critical nesting site for the endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtle, with opportunities to witness hatchling releases. The episode wraps with visitor info, including trail tips and accessibility features, encouraging everyone to explore and help protect this ecological treasure.

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