Community Profile

Summary

Houston is known as the “Bayou City” for the 10+ major bayous (slow moving waterways) that traverse the city. These bayous and creeks provide habitat for many species of animals and are important wildlife corridors for the region. Houston was founded in 1836 and is the 4th largest city in the U.S. with 2.2 million people and a land area of over 650 square miles. Houston has been a Tree City USA for 29 years and has a very robust Arbor Day celebration every year. The city is primarily contained within Harris County, SE Texas and contains three important ecoregions - the Gulf Coast Prairies, Coastal Marshes and the East Texas Piney Woods. Seven additional ecoregions surround the Houston area as well, providing a uniquely diverse array of wildlife habitats. This leads to a large diversity in species found in the region, including thousands of birds, butterflies, aquatic fish and wildlife. There are over 800 native plant species found here along with almost 300 bird species identified as Houston sits along one of the major migratory flyways. The diversity of the people in the Houston area rivals the diversity of the flora and fauna as one of the fastest growing cities in the country. More and more residents and visitors are learning to appreciate and enjoy the green space found here. Please visit http://www.houstontx.gov/parks/naturalresources.html