Great Florida Birding Trail Map - East Florida

8/9/2019 Great Florida Birding Trail Map - East Florida

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Florida Fish and Wildlife

Conservation Commission

EAST SECTION

Rev. 6/02

EAST SECTION

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The Great Florida Birding Trailis a project of the

Florida Fish and WildlifeConservation Commission.

In partnership with :

WildlifeFoundationof Florida

U.S. Fish

and WildlifeService

U.S. Department ofTransportation

Federal HighwayAdministration

Florida StateParks

Florida Department ofTransportation

reat FloridaBirding Trailreat FloridaBirding Trailreat FloridaBirding Trail

Printed on recycled paper


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Gannet Cluster

Ft. Clinch State Park

A great introduction to Florida's bird species andhabitats; check the entrance road's hammock andmarsh for warblers, waders, wrens and sparrows.Watch for painted buntings in spring/summer. Checkpier for seabirds, and purple sandpipers and gannetsin winter.

DIRECTIONS: From I-95, go E from exit #373 10 mi.to Fernandina Beach. A1A becomes 8th St. Continue3 mi. to Atlantic Ave. Turn right (E) on Atlantic Ave.;park is 2 mi. on left (N). A1A S begins again atintersection with S. Fletcher Ave., E of Ft. Clinch.

Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (904) 277-7274

www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/

*See Gateways on page 34 for more information

The Nature Center at Amelia Island

This nature center provides great educationalprograms, including birdwatching classes and natureadventures. Call ahead for a schedule or reservations.

Night-herons, shorebirds, painted buntings, and ternsand gulls are possible sightings.

DIRECTIONS: Located 9 mi. S of Fernandina Beachon the E side of A1A prior to crossing the NassauSound Bridge. Watch for signs directing to theReception Center and Village Shops, prior to securitygate. Wooden bench and totem pole mark NatureCenters entrance.

Open 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (904) 321-5082

www.aipfl.com

YEAR-ROUND

Map 1 - Gannet Cluster

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Gannet Cluster

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Amelia Island State Park

Worth a peek for shorebirds on the beach. From the catwalk on thebridge over Nassau Sound, you can view sand bars and islands inthe sound and look for cormorants, pelicans and migratory shore-birds at low tide.

DIRECTIONS: This park is on the S tip of Amelia Island, on theE side of SR A1A.

Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (904) 251-2320www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/

Big Talbot Island State Park

Check wetlands at N tip of park for shorebirds and rails. Further S,on the E side of the road, on the Bluffs and Blackrock Trail, checkfor songbirds in spring and fall, painted buntings in spring/summer.Scope the beach for shorebirds. Maps available at Little TalbotIsland State Park.

DIRECTIONS: Located on A1A just south of Amelia Island.


YEAR-ROUND

Little Talbot Island State Park

Good place to pick up area bird lists and maps. The N point hikingtrail harbors buntings, songbirds, skimmers and oystercatchers,7 sandpiper species, 4 plover species, marbled godwits and long-billed curlews. Jaegers and gannets offshore in winter.

DIRECTIONS: From I-95 in Jacksonville, take exit 358A (HecksherDrive) E across Ft. George Inlet. Site is 3 mi. on right, on A1A S ofAmelia Island.


E. Dale Joyner Nature Preserve at PelotesIsland

Access only by group tour, by appointment. Free programs rangefrom birding to Native American history; individuals may ask to joinpreviously-scheduled programs. The island's maritime hammock,salt marsh and high caliber programming make it a great intro forbeginning birders.

DIRECTIONS: Given upon confirmation of appointment.

Hours by appointment. (904) 665-8856

Cedar Point

Gorgeous maritime hammock, salt marsh, scrubby flatwoods andfreshwater wetlands are a songbird migrant mecca spring and fall.Boat basin, on E side of the road, offers rails and shore and wadingbirds.

DIRECTIONS: In Jacksonville, take Hecksher Dr. E to New BerlinRd. Turn left (N) and follow New Berlin Rd. to Cedar Point Rd. Turnright (E) and follow Cedar Point Rd. 7 mi. to the park at the end.

Open sunrise to sunset. (904) 241-3537 www.nps.gov

Kingsley Plantation

Good viewing of migrating spring and fall songbirds. Expectwarblers galore, plus wading birds, shorebirds and raptors. Visitorcenter details the site's cultural history.

DIRECTIONS: From I-95 in Jacksonville, take Hecksher Dr. E 17mi. Ft. George Island is on left (N) side of the road 0.5 mi. past St.Johns River Ferry Landing, prior to Little Talbot Island State Park.Sign says "Timucuan Ecological & Historical Preserve."


Ft. George Island Cultural State Park

Hammock loop road good in fall and spring for migrant songbirds,painted buntings in spring/summer. The salt marsh is home towading birds, and shorebirds loaf on exposed mud flats in the pass.

DIRECTIONS: From I-95 in Jacksonville, take exit 358A (HecksherDr.) E 18 mi. Ft. George Island is on left (N) side of the road. Veer

right on loop road to clubhouse for maps and trail guides.


Huguenot Memorial Park

Park includes a critical wildlife area for nesting terns and shore-

birds, and often hosts rarities, like bar-tailed godwits. North side ofpeninsula is good for waders, shorebirds and ducks; around the tip,watch for terns and gulls. Scope for gannets, loons and sea ducks.

DIRECTIONS: From I-95 in Jacksonville, take Hecksher Dr. E17 mi. Site is on right (S) side of road.

Open 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (summers, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.)

(904) 251-3335 www.coj.net/fun

Gannet Cluster

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Ralph Simmons State Forest

Rustic hiking through sandhills and slope forests, to the St. Mary'sRiver. Maps at trailhead on Penny Haddock Rd. Another trailhead,1 mi. further on the left, leads 3 mi. to the river. You may seesparrows, turkeys, and finally, waterbirds at the river. Rent canoeson US 1 and bird the river.

DIRECTIONS: From Hilliard in W Nassau Co., take US 1/ SR 301N 6 mi. to Boulogne. Turn right (E) on Lake Hampton Rd. Drive

2 mi. to Penny Haddock Rd. and turn left (N). Site is on left (W)side of road.

Open sunrise to sunset. (904) 693-5055

Gannet Cluster / St. Marys Cluster

Ft. Caroline National Memorial and TheodoreRoosevelt Area

Theodore Roosevelt Area's trails wind through maritime hammockout to the salt marsh overlook. A fabulous site for migratory song-birds. Ft. Caroline visitor center has maps and exhibits.

DIRECTIONS: South of the river, E of Jacksonville, take SR 10E to Monument Rd. Turn left (N) on Monument Rd. until it endsat Ft. Caroline Rd. Turn right (E). Veer left on Ft. Caroline Rd. tovisitor center, or right on Mt. Pleasant Rd. to reach the TheodoreRoosevelt Area Trail.


Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park

Pick up a bird list and map at the entrance, and park just beyond it.Walk S to finger lakes to see wading birds, anhingas, and water-fowl. Trails NE of the parking lot host songbirds and owls. Beachaccess #9 has a binocular scope to help you scan the ocean forgannets and sea ducks.

DIRECTIONS: Take I-95 in Jacksonville to SR 10 (Atlantic Blvd.).Drive E to Mayport Rd. (A1A). Turn left (N) on Mayport Rd. and

veer right on SR 101 when it diverges from A1A. Turn right (E)on Wonderwood Dr.

Open 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (summers, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.)(904) 249-4700

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Map 2 - St. Marys Cluster

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St. Marys ClusterMap

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Kestrel Cluster

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Jennings State Forest

Stop at the North Fork Black Creek trail for a trail guide.Watch for woodpeckers and brown-headed nuthatches;powerline viewing tower at the road's end is good forBachman's sparrows, kestrels and bluebirds. Call aheadfor hunt dates, closures and guided birding walks.

DIRECTIONS: Take SR 21 SE 6 mi. from Orange Park.Turn right (W) on Old Jennings Rd. (220A). Turn N on

Live Oak Ln. Trailheads on left (W) side of road.

Open sunrise to sunset. (904) 291-5530www.fl-dof.com/

Gold Head Branch State Park

Unique ravine is haven to migratory songbirds in season,including tanagers, thrushes and warblers. Eagles arecommon. Turkeys and bobwhites feed in the morningalong the entrance road. Check the lake for wadingbirds, ducks and terns. Owls prowl the campground atnight.

DIRECTIONS: From Keystone Heights take SR 21 NE6 mi. Park is on right (E) side of road.

Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (352) 473-4701


YEAR-ROUND

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Map 3 - Kestrel Cluster

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Kestrel Cluster


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Painted Bunting Cluster

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Guana River Wildlife ManagementArea

Twelve miles of rustic trails through flatwoods, hammocks,

scrub and wetlands. Overlooks offer ducks, egrets and

spoonbills. During hunts on Thurs.-Sun., Oct.-Jan., birders

may drive in. Otherwise, park and hike/bike, veering right on

the W side of the dam; heading N into the site.

DIRECTIONS: From St. Augustine, take SR A1A N through

Vilano Beach. Site is 8 mi. N, on left (W) side of the road.

Enter through state park, park on dam, and hike across dam,N into site.


Guana River State Park

View peregrine falcon migration from tower on the beach side

of A1A during the first 2 weeks of Oct. At the dam entrance,bird for shorebirds, rails, ducks and loons. Bobolinks like the

fallow area leading to hiking trails in fall and spring, when

hammocks are thick with songbirds.

DIRECTIONS: From St. Augustine, take SR A1A N through

Vilano Beach. Site is 8 mi. N, on both sides of the road.

Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (904) 825-5071


YEAR-ROUND

St. Augustine Alligator Farm

Egrets, wood storks and tri-colored herons have long nestedabove the American alligators at this site. Boardwalks windthrough the rookery, giving an up-close look at adults, chicksand nests. Great for photographers. Breeding peaks April-July.

DIRECTIONS: From I-95, exit at SR 16 (exit #318) and

drive E 7 mi. to SR A1A. Turn right on A1A and cross onto

Anastasia Island. Site is 1.5 mi. ahead on right (W) side of

the road.

Open 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (904) 824-3337

www.alligatorfarm.com

Map 4 - Painted Bunting Cluster

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Anastasia State Park

Bird the salt run for wading birds and rails, then hike the maritimehammock trail, looking for painted buntings in spring/summer andmigrating warblers in April and Oct. The beach offers terns, gulls,sandpipers and plovers; scope offshore for sea ducks, loons and

gannets.

DIRECTIONS: From I-95, exit at SR 207. Take SR 207 E to CR

312. Turn right (E) on CR 312 and proceed to SR A1A. Turn left (N)

on SR A1A. The park is approx. 2 mi. N of this intersection on the

right (E) side of the road.

Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (904) 461-2000


YEAR-ROUND

Ft. Matanzas National Monument

From the beach entrance, bird the inlet for plovers and sandpipers,and the river for ducks and grebes. On the ocean side, watch forterns, gulls and gannets. The visitor center has maps, a bird list anda boardwalk trail.

DIRECTIONS: From I-95, take CR 206 (exit #305) E 6 mi. to SRA1A. Turn right (S) and follow A1A 4 mi. The visitor center is on the

right (W) side, with more beach access 0.3 miles ahead prior to theMatanzas Inlet bridge.

Beach open 24 hrs/day, visitor center open 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

(904) 471-0116

YEAR-ROUND

Faver-Dykes State Park

Rustic trails through hammock, flatwoods and along salt marsh.Park harbors migrating songbirds spring and fall. Check the

estuary for waders, eagles, white pelicans, ducks and clapper rails.

Be prepared for biting insects April-August.

DIRECTIONS: From I-95 N of Palm Coast, take US 1 (exit #298)

0.5 mi. N to Faver Dykes Rd. Turn right (E) and drive 1.5 mi. to the

park entrance at the end.

Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (904) 794-0997


Princess Place Preserve

Watch for turkeys by the roadside; take the first trail on left throughupland habitats (watch for raptors and woodpeckers) and freshwa-ter marsh; second trail on left includes saltwater marsh. Blue trailwinds through flatwoods and along Pellicer Creek. When road

reaches creek bear to the right to the green trail (good songbirdhabitat). Great egrets and blue herons nest spring/summer aroundfountain.

DIRECTIONS: From intersection of US1 and I-95 (exit #278), drive

S 2 mi. to Old Kings Rd. Turn left (E) and go 1.5 mi. to Princess

Place Rd. Turn left (NE) and drive approx. 2 mi. into the preserve.

Open Wed.- Sun., 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (904) 446-7490

Washington Oaks Gardens State Park

Check beach for shorebirds, and offshore for loons, grebes, seaducks and gannets. Beach is also good for fall raptor migration,Sept.-Oct. On the river side, bird the scrub or hammock trails, orroad edges for migrants in season. Riverfront can be good forshorebirds, gulls, terns and waders.

DIRECTIONS: Take I-95 to SR 100, drive E to SR A1A in Flagler

Beach. Turn N and go 12 mi. to the site. Beach access is on right(E); park entrance station (with maps and bird list) is on left (W).

Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (386) 446-6780


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Upland Songbird Cluster


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Caravelle Ranch Wildlife ManagementArea

During hunting seasons Sept.- March, you can drive into thearea to bird for sparrows, turkeys, wading birds and swallow-tailed kites. Get a map at the check station. Outside of

hunting season, walk in at main gate, or 1 mile S, on E sideof road.

DIRECTIONS: Take SR 19 S from Palatka approx. 12 mi.

The main entrance is approx. 1 mi. S of Barge Canal bridge

on left (E) side of road.


Welaka State Forest

From parking area, Talking Tree Trail with boardwalk intofloodplain interprets the forest's wildlife. John's Landing trailextends S for 4.5 mi. Expect turkeys, bobwhites, eagles,migrating warblers, and sandhill cranes.

DIRECTIONS: From Palatka, take SR 17 S 10 mi. to CR

309. Go W on CR 309 5 mi. to town of Welaka. Continue on

CR 309. Office will be 0.8 mi. S of Welaka on the left (E)

side. Go 1 mi. further S and the Talking Tree Trail and John's

Landing trailhead will be on the right (W).


www.fl-dof.com/

Welaka National Fish Hatchery & Aquarium

Hatchery's ponds attract fish-eating wading birds; check outbirders' viewing platform to see eagles, ospreys, waders,kingfishers and mergansers. Hike the short trail just N ofobservation tower for migrants and turkeys.

DIRECTIONS: From Palatka, take SR 17 10 mi. S to CR

309. Turn right on CR 309 and go S 9 mi. to observation

tower and ponds on left (E) side.

Observation tower open sunrise to sunset. (904) 467-2374

http://southeast.fws.gov/welaka/

YEAR-ROUND

Ocala National Forest: Salt Springs

Enter at the spring entrance, or park and hike for free at thetrailhead just S of the springs. A wooded trail offers migrantsin season, and at the water's edge, look for waders andlimpkins.


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Ravine Gardens State Park

Hike ravine or drive loop road around it, watching for migratorysongbirds, resident woodpeckers, owls and hawks. Ruby-throatedhummingbirds frequent the gardens in spring/summer, and pondhas ducks and waders.

DIRECTIONS: From SR 17 in Palatka, turn S on Moseley Ave.

Go to Twigg St. and turn left (E). Park entrance is on the right.

Open 7:30 a.m. to sunset. (386) 329-3721

Map 5 - Upland Songbird Cluster

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Upland Songbird Cluster / Limpkin Cluster


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Upland Songbird Cluster / Limpkin Cluster

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DIRECTIONS: Salt Springs is located just N of intersection of

CR 314 and SR 19 on NE side of Ocala National Forest. Hiking

trailhead is 0.5 mi. S of the Salt Springs campground entrance,

on E side of road.

Trail open 24 hours a day. (352) 685-2048

Sportsmans Cove

This private fish camp on Orange Lake is knownfor its limpkins, wading birds, shorebirds andwintering ducks. From the waterfront, scope forshorebirds on the flats. A reasonably pricedpontoon boat tour is available.

DIRECTIONS: From I-75 S of Gainesville, takeexit #368 (CR 318) and drive E 2.5 mi. to US441. Turn left (N) on US 441. Go 3 mi. into

McIntosh. Turn right (E) on Ave. F. Site is 8blocks E of 441 at end of Avenue F.

Open sunrise to sunset. (352) 591-1435www.sportsmans-cove.net

Silver River State Park

Driving in, watch for woodpeckers, turkeysand bobwhites. Nature trails run between themuseum and the river, through oak hammock.Watch for migratory songbirds in season, andwaders and limpkins by the river. Call for detailsabout monthly bird walks.

DIRECTIONS: From I-75, take SR 40 E 10 mi.,thru Ocala, to SR 35 in Silver Springs. Turn right(S) on SR 35 (Baseline Rd.) and go approx. 1.2mi. to entrance on left (E).


Map 6 - Limpkin Cluster

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Limpkin Cluster





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Ocklawaha Prairie Restoration Area

Excellent site for ducks, shorebirds and wading birds, raptors,sparrows, and blackbirds. Hike to the overlook and the levee trailparalleling the wetlands.

DIRECTIONS: From downtown Ocala, take SR 40 E 14 mi. to CR314A. Turn right (S) on CR 314A and go 7 mi. Turn right and followSE 85th St. less than 1 mi. to public parking area.

Open sunrise to sunset. (352) 288-2233http://sjr.state.fl.us/

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Warbler Hammocks Cluster


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Haw Creek Preserve at Russell LandingUnique boardwalk elevates the birder for closer viewing of thecanopy in this bottomland hardwood forest. During migration,watch for swallow-tailed kites, and flocks of warblers. Boardwalkto the creek may offer waders, including limpkins.

DIRECTIONS: From Bunnell, take SR 100 W 6 mi. to CR 305.Turn left (S) and go 3 mi. to CR 2006. Turn right (W) and go 1.5 mi.

to CR 2007 (dirt road). Turn left (S) and go 2 mi. to park at end ofroad. Road will dogleg left (E) prior to park entrance.


Bulow Creek State Park

From the observation platform (park at entrance just W of bridgeand hike N), scan for avocets, dunlin, both yellowlegs, western

sandpipers and ducks. This same trail leads N to Bulow PlantationRuins' hammocks, and overlooks Bulow Creek's marshes.

DIRECTIONS: From I-95, take exit #278 at Old Dixie Highway anddrive E 1 mi. When the road curves S, Walter Boardman Ln. branchesoff to left (E). Turn E and go approx. 0.5 mi. to park entrance. Lookfor small parking area on right (S) side of Boardman Ln., passing thewetland pond on left, before (west of) the bridge over Bulow Creek.

Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (386)676-4050 www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/

North Peninsula State Park

This beach park is great for observing terns, gulls, shorebirds andgannets; the property on the W side of A1A is home to severalscrub-jay families. While driving A1A or High Bridge Rd., watch thetelephone lines and posts for Florida scrub-jays.

DIRECTIONS: Site is located 6 mi. S of Flagler Beach on SR A1A.


YEAR-ROUND

Tomoka State Park

Best birding here is on foot at Tomoka Point, especially duringspring and fall songbird migration. From the boat basin and TomokaPoint, scope the rivers for terns, pelicans, loons and ducks; bald

eagles and swallow-tailed kites soar overhead.

DIRECTIONS: From I-95, take exit #268 to SR 40 towardsOrmond Beach. Drive E, 5 mi. to light at the W approach toOrmond Bridge over Halifax River. Turn left (N) before bridgeonto N. Beach St. and proceed 4 mi. N to entrance.


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Map 7 - Warbler Hammocks Cluster


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Swallow-tailed Kite Cluster


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Swallow tailed Kite Cluster

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Ocala National Forest: Alexander Springs

On Timucuan Trail, watch for songbird migrants and waders. Whendriving in the Forest, watch for scrub-jays on wires; limpkins at rivercrossings; and red-cockaded woodpecker trees, ringed with whitepaint, throughout the forest.

DIRECTIONS: From SR 19 N of Eustis, take CR 445 NE 5 mi.Entrance to Alexander Springs will be on left (N) side of road.

Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (352) 669-3153

Sunnyhill Restoration Area

Follow the levees, watching for wintering ducks. Waders nesthere, including both ibises, purple gallinules and least bitterns.

Portions of this property will be closedintermittently for restoration.

DIRECTIONS: From Weirsdale, takeCR 42 E 5.9 mi. Blue House entranceto Sunnyhill is on left (N) side of road.

From SR 19 N, take CR 42 left (W);entrance is on the right (N).

Open sunrise to sunset.http://sjr.state.fl.us/

Emeralda Marsh

Conservation Area

Entrances along Emeralda Island Rd.host large flocks of bobolinks eachspring. Both bitterns are common, asare migratory ducks in fall and winter.There is intermittent springtime driv-ing access to an interpretive loop atthis site; call (352) 429-3673. TheTreasure Island entrance is currentlyundergoing restoration and (Site #38)will reopen after 2004.

DIRECTIONS: From Leesburg, takeUS 441 S 2 mi. to CR 44 E. Take CR44 to Emeralda Ave. and turn left (N).When road comes to T, turn left and

follow Emeralda Island Rd. NW. Accesses to marsh property willbe on both sides (at mile markers 0.5, 0.9 and 1.8 mi. on left; and1.4 mi. on right), with occasional closures for this area's ongoingrestoration.


Hidden Waters Preserve

Steep slopes lead to a sinkhole formed over time by undergroundwater sources at this small site. Hardwood forest surrounds the lake

and is productive for songbirds in early Oct. and early April. Checkthe lake for ducks and wading birds, and open areas for raptors.

DIRECTIONS: From the SR 44B and US 441 intersection inMt. Dora, take US 441 N 0.8 mi. Turn right at East Crooked LakeRd and go 0.4 mi. to Country Club Rd. Turn right on Country Cluband go 0.7 mi. Site is on the right.

Open sunrise to sunset. (352) 343-3777 www.lcwa.org37

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Swallow-tailed Kite Cluster

Map 8 - Swallow-tailed Kite Cluster





http://sjr.state.fl.us/

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Scrub-jay Cluster


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Lake George State Forest

Drive to end of road into Bluffton Recreation Area; watch for eagles,

turkeys, bobwhites and raptors; songbird migrants in hardwoodhammock; and swallow-tailed kites, limpkins and waders at the river.Check the entrance kiosk for occasional hunt dates, or call ahead.

DIRECTIONS: Drive 0.5 mi. E of town of Volusia on St. JohnsRiver, or 5.7 mi. W of intersection of SR 17 and SR 40. Turn S onSt. Johns River Rd.; go 0.75 mi. to forest entrance gate. The driveto river extends 2.5 mi. S on St. Johns River Rd.


YEAR-ROUND

DeLeon Springs State Park Area

Check waterfront for coots, ducks, limpkins and waders, then hikethe 5-mi. hammock trail across floodplain and cypress margin,looking for hermit thrushes, blue-winged warblers and othermigrants. Boat tour runs to Lake Woodruff.

DIRECTIONS: From I-4, take exit #114 to US 17-92 N, andhead N 11.2 mi. to DeLeon Springs. (Choose US 17 N when roadsplits). Turn left (W) on N side of town onto Ponce DeLeon Blvd.

Cross the railroad tracks and enter the park at this point.


Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge

Impoundments provide resting and feeding areas for waterfowl,

waders and shorebirds, especially in winter. Good songbird viewingalong trails S of the entrance area, and in flatwoods on NW side ofpools.

DIRECTIONS: From US 17 N of DeLand, turn W on Retta Ave.and drive to Grand Ave. Turn left (S) on Grand Ave. and proceedto Mud Lake Rd. Turn right (W) on Mud Lake and drive to refugeentrance at the end.


Scrub jay Cluster

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Map 9 - Scrub-jay Cluster

Scrub-jay Cluster

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Scrub-jay Cluster / Tanager Cluster


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Hontoon Island State Park

Take the free ferry to this island park and bird for ospreys, anhingas,limpkins and other wading birds at water's edge. The 2-mi. traildown W side of island traverses hammocks full of songbirds andwoodpeckers. Scrubby flatwoods in island's interior are good forwarblers and vireos.

DIRECTIONS: From DeLand, take SR 44 W to Old New YorkAve. Turn left and go approx. 2.5 mi. to Hontoon Rd. Turn left andtravel 1 mi. to River Ridge Rd. Turn left and ferry parking area willbe 2 mi. ahead on left side.


Blue Spring State Park

Overwintering manatees are a big draw at this park, but birding isalso excellent. Walk spring run boardwalk looking for coots, anhin-gas, cormorants, barred owls and migrating warblers. A 4-mi. trailexplores sand pine scrub, pine flatwoods and marsh.

DIRECTIONS: From US 17-92 in Orange City, take French Ave.W 2.5 mi. to park entrance just beyond railroad crossing.

Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (386)775-3663

Lyonia Preserve

Hike trails before 10:00 a.m. to see Florida scrub-jays. The scrubalso hosts white-eyed vireos, eastern towhees and nighthawks.Pinelands on N side are home to red-headed woodpeckers anda wetland with wading birds and ducks.

DIRECTIONS: From I-4 N of Deltona, take SR 472 (exit 114) E 2.7mi. to Providence Blvd. (CR 4155). Turn right (S) and drive 0.7 mi.to Eustace Ave. After turning right (W) on Eustace, library will beimmediately on left (S) side of road. Park in library's lot; trailhead isbehind library.

Open 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (386) 740-5261www.volusia.org/growth/landacq.htm

YEAR-ROUND

Lake Ashby Park

Watch for wood storks circling on thermals and turkeys under theoaks on drive in. Trail from the SE side of the parking lot runsthrough good songbird hammocks to lake and boardwalk. Fromhere, look for ospreys, eagles, waders and terns.

DIRECTIONS: From SR 44 E of DeLand, take SR 415 S 4.3 mi.to Lake Ashby Rd. Turn left on Lake Ashby Rd. and go 1 mi. to BoyScout Camp Rd. Turn left and drive 1 mi.; entrance on the right (S)

side ot the road.


Smyrna Dunes Park

Easy, 2-mile boardwalk trail passes through hammock good forspring warblers, oceanfront where gulls and shorebirds loaf, andpast winter waves that host loons. Plovers like beach nearest inlet;gannets plunge in inlet; shorebirds and pelicans loaf on sandbars.

DIRECTIONS: In New Smyrna Beach, take SR 44 businessstraight onto Canal St. Turn left (N) onto Riverside Dr. and thenright onto Flagler Ave., crossing Halifax River. Turn left (N) ontoN. Peninsula Dr. Park is 2 mi. N at the end of the road.


YEAR-ROUND

Rock Springs Run State Reserve

Sandhill, hammock and wetland species are present at this wildsite, as is the sought-after Florida scrub-jay. To observe thecapture, examination and recording of birds at a mist-net station,call for details and reservations.

DIRECTIONS: From I-4 N of Orlando, take SR 46 (exit #101C)7.3 mi. Entrance is on left (S) side of the road.

Open 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (407) 884-2008www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/

Seminole State Forest

Large site driving in is recommended. Call in advance for permits.Check East Spur's scrub for Florida scrub-jays, then park atBlackwater Creek bridge for songbirds and limpkins. Hike SulphurLoop or grade road to see indigo buntings, vireos and warblers.

DIRECTIONS: From I-4 N of Orlando, take SR 46 (exit #101C) W5.4 mi. Forest entrance is 2000 ft. W of Wekiva River on right (N)side of the road.


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Tanager Cluster






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Tanager Cluster


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Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park

Hike main trail N for miles in this 17,800-acre preserve, or choose1-mi. sandhill nature trail. Expect summer tanagers, Bachman'ssparrows, yellow-throated warblers, Eastern bluebirds and brown-headed nuthatches on nature trail. On main trail, everything frombobwhites to black-and-white warblers are possible.

DIRECTIONS: From I-4 N of Orlando, take SR 46 (exit #101C not#101A) W 4.2 mi. Preserve entrance is on right (N) side of road.

Open sunrise to sunset. (407) 884-2008www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/

Wekiwa Springs State ParkTrail from spring to Sand Lake runs through 6 plant communitiesand hosts 34 warbler species. Watch for red-headed, pileated, red-bellied, hairy and downy woodpeckers. Bachman's sparrows call insandhills. A mist-netting station runs Sept.-Oct.; call for details andreservations.

DIRECTIONS: From I-4 N of Orlando, take exit #94 (SR 434) W0.9 mi. to Wekiwa Springs Rd. Turn right. Go 4.1 mi. to entrance.


YEAR-ROUND

Lake Jesup Wilderness Area

From boat launch, bird for eagles, terns, waders and white pelicanson lake in winter. Using map (from kiosk behind boat ramp), hikethe pastureland; watch for raptors and sparrows. Look for barredowls and migratory songbirds in hammock at end of berm trail.

DIRECTIONS: From Orlando, take I-4 N/E to Lake Mary Blvd.Follow Lake Mary Blvd. E 5.5 mi. to Sanford Ave. S (rather thanSanford Ave. N or SR 427). Turn right (S) and follow it to the endat Lake Jesup Park.


Audubon Center for Birds of Prey

See 19 captive raptor species at this rehabilitation facility,including bald eagle, peregrine falcon, Mississippi kite,Cooper's hawk, burrowing owl, caracara and short-tailed hawk. Educational programs cover rehabilitationtechniques, raptor biology and identification.

DIRECTIONS: Exit I-4 at Lee Rd. (exit #88) N ofOrlando. Take Lee Rd. E, making an almost immediateleft onto Wymore Rd. (N). Continue to Kennedy Blvd.and turn right (E). Proceed 0.6 mi. to East Ave. Turnleft (N). At Audubon Way, turn left into parking lot.

Open Tues.-Sun. 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

(407) 644-0190 www.adoptabird.org

YEAR-ROUND

Mead Gardens

From Sept.-Oct. and Apr.-May, morning birding canreap 15 or more warbler species, as well as thrushes,redstarts, vireos and kinglets. Bird boardwalk, stream,pond and near picnic area.

DIRECTIONS: From I-4 north of downtown Orlando,take SR 426/Fairbanks Ave. east towards Winter Parkto Denning Dr. Turn right (S) on Denning Drive andproceed 0.5 miles to Garden Dr. Turn left (E). MeadGardens is at end of the road.

Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (407) 599-3334www.ci.winter-park.fl.us

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Bittern and Bobwhite Cluster


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Lake Proctor Wilderness Area

Property offers 6 mi. of trails through flatwoods, sandhilland oak hammock habitats, as well as vantage of lake.Hammocks and flatwoods are good for migrants; nestingsandhill cranes frequent lake. Watch lake margin forsnipe and bitterns.

DIRECTIONS: From Sanford, take SR 46 E. Go 1 mi.past intersection with CR 426 and site will be on left (N)side of the road.

Open sunrise to sunset. (407) 665-7352www.co.seminole.fl.us/natland/

Geneva Wilderness Area

Listen for eastern towhees and mixed flocks of warblersin oaks in fall/spring. Ponds have sandhill cranes,

waders, plus snipe and ducks, including wood ducksand hooded mergansers.

DIRECTIONS: From Oviedo, take CR 426 NE 6 mi.Site is on right (SE) side of road. If you reach SnowhillRd., you have gone too far.

Open sunrise to sunset. (407) 665-7352www.co.seminole.fl.us/natland/

Little Big Econ State Forest:Demetree and Kilbee Tracts

Bird the pasture near Demetree Tract parking area forbluebirds, sparrows and raptors, then follow the trailSW to trail along river and look for songbirds. Kilbee Tractabuts the St. Johns hike 1 mi. for view of river and itswaders, shorebirds and ducks, in fall/w inter.

DIRECTIONS: From Oviedo, take CR 426 to Snowhill Rd. Turnright (S) and go 1.7 mi. to reach Demetree Tract entrance (site #59)on right (W) side of road. For Kilbee Tract (site #58), take CR 426to SR 46. Turn right (E) on SR 46 and go 4.0 mi. Entrance to KilbeeTract is on right (S) side just prior to St. Johns River bridge.

Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset.(407) 971-3500www.fl-dof.com

Orlando Wetlands Park

Hike the dike trails to view snowy egrets, bitterns, purple gallinulesand wintering ducks. Another trail beginning at parking lot winds

around Lake Searcy, then through a hammock good for migratorysongbirds in season. PROPERTY IS CLOSED OCT. 1 - JAN. 20.

DIRECTIONS: From Orlando, travel E on SR 50 to town ofChristmas. Turn left (N) onto Ft. Christmas Rd. (CR 420) and travel2.3 mi. Wheeler Rd. (dirt road) leads off to right turn right (E) andtravel 1.5 mi. Parking will be on the left. Pick up a map, sign in.


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Bittern and Bobwhite Cluster

Map 11 - Bittern and Bobwhite Cluster



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Bittern and Bobwhite Cluster / River to Ocean Cluster


16/36

Tosohatchee State Reserve

Obtain bird list and map at entrance, and check for road closures.Drive Powerline Rd. looking for raptors, bluebirds, turkeys and spar-rows. At Jim Creek slough, watch for wood storks and limpkins. TheSt. Johns River marsh is good for rails, ducks and purple gallinules.

DIRECTIONS: From Orlando, take SR 50 E to town of Christmas.Turn right (S) on Taylor Creek Rd. Proceed 3 mi. and entrance willbe on left (E).


Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Drive Black Point for rails, ducks like pintails and teals, and shore-birds. Reddish egrets dance in the shallows, and harriers flushshorebirds in winter. Hammock and scrub trails are good formigrants. Florida scrub-jays perch on telephone wires and postson Kennedy Boundary Pkwy.

DIRECTIONS: Take I-95 to Titusville exit #220 (SR 406). Go E onSR 406 across Indian River. Visitor Center is 5.3 mi. from US 1 onthe right.

Refuge open sunrise to sunset. Closed during NASA shuttlelaunches. Visitor Center open M-F 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.,

S-S 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed Sun., April-Oct.(321) 861-0667 www.nbbd.com/godo/minwr

Canaveral National Seashore(North Entrance)

Easy access to beach for terns and gulls; platforms on dunes formigrating raptors, and gannets at sea; hammock trails for migratorysongbirds; and lagoon vantages for waders, shorebirds andmigratory ducks. Twelve-mile dike trail allows wilder views of lagoon,beach and coastal scrub. Backcountry access requires permit.

DIRECTIONS: From I-95 in New Smyrna, take SR 44 E to SRA1A. Turn right (S) and drive 7 mi. on A1A to park entrance.

Open summers 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 pm., winters 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 pm.(386) 428-3384

River Breeze Park

Unique dock extends out into Mosquito Lagoon. At low tide, dockpermits close views of shorebirds like avocets, dunlins, red knotsand dowitchers on exposed mudflats. Best in fall/winter at low tide.

DIRECTIONS: From US 1 in Oak Hill, turn E on H. H. Burch Rd.

Site is at end of road on left (N) side.


Scottsmoor Landing

At this access to N. Indian River Lagoon, scope for migratory ducksin season. View shorebirds and waders along shoreline. Northern

harriers prowl the black needle rush marsh, where rails skulk in tallreeds. Watch for painted buntings on entrance road.

DIRECTIONS: From Mims, take US 1 N of SR 46 5 mi. Go E 2 mi.on Huntington Rd., across railroad tracks. Park is at end of road.

Open sunrise to sunset. (321) 264-5105 www.brevardparks.com

Buck Lake Conservation Area:East and West Entrances

Hike the extensive uplands here to see Bachmans sparrows,brown-headed nuthatches, Florida scrub-jays, turkeys, easternbluebirds, red-headed woodpeckers and migrants like blue gros-beaks. Migratory months most productive and most comfortable.

DIRECTIONS: From I-95 W of Mims, take SR 46 (exit #223) W1 mi. to entrance on right (N) side of road. Entrance road is dirt,marked with small brown sign. A second entrance is another 6 mi.

W on the N side of road.

Open sunrise to sunset. For hunt information, call (386) 329-4404.http://sjr.state.fl.us/

Seminole Ranch Conservation Area

Watch for migratory songbirds, painted buntings, turkeys and wad-ing birds in hammocks and wetlands in this large wilderness area.Directions are to the N, no-hunt portions of property. Knowledge ofbird calls is helpful. Several entrances are on W side of road, withmap kiosks at each.

DIRECTIONS: From Mims, take SR 46 approx. 5 mi. W of I-95.Turn S on Hatbill Rd. There are several trailheads on W side ofroad as you drive down Hatbill Rd.

Open sunrise to sunset. http://sjr.state.fl.us/

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River to Ocean Cluster


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Parrish Park Titusville

Enjoy Indian River Lagoon with views of ducks, shorebirds, loonsand grebes in fall and winter. Check both sides of road for loafingterns and black skimmers, ruddy turnstones and other shorebirds.In spring and summer, little will be seen except gulls, terns andwaders.

DIRECTIONS: From Titusville, take SR 406 across Indian River.After crossing, site is immediately on left (N) side of road.

Open sunrise to sunset. (321) 264-5105 www.brevardparks.com

Canaveral National Seashore(South Entrance)

Immediately after entrance station, look for Florida scrub-jays alongroad. Park at a beach crossover and bird the beach for plovers,terns and gulls. Watch offshore in winter for the occasional gannet,

shearwater and jaeger. Sea ducks, loons and cormorants feed inthe surf in winter. Area is subject to closure for security purposes.

DIRECTIONS: From Titusville, take SR 406 E and veer right(E) onto SR 402 (unmarked). Proceed through Merritt IslandNational Wildlife Refuge to National Seashore entrance station.

Open summers 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.,winters 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.(321) 867-4077www.nbbd.com/godo/cns

YEAR-ROUND

Hatbill Park

Watch along Hatbill Rd. for everything fromsongbird migrants to turkeys. This St. JohnsRiver site provides a sunset view of hundredsof egrets, ibises and herons coming in toroost. In winter, see ducks and flocks ofswallows near sunset. Prowl for owls alongroad on drive back.

DIRECTIONS: From Mims, take SR 465 mi. W of I-95 to Hatbill Rd. (dirt road)on left (S) side of SR 46. Take Hatbill Rd.several miles S to site at end.

Open sunrise to sunset. (321) 264-5105www.brevardparks.com

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Map 12 - River to Ocean Cluster

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Natural Attractions Cluster


18/36

Lake Louisa State Park

A new entrance makes it possible to stop in briefly. Bird the lakeat end of road, and watch for sparrows, meadowlarks, turkeys,bobwhites and raptors on the way in and out. More extensive, rustictrails also available.

DIRECTIONS: From Orlando, take I-4 exit #64B (US 192) W 8 mi.to US 27. Turn right (N) and go 8.5 mi. Site will be on left (W).

Open 8:00 a.m. to sunset. (352) 394-3969


Tibet-Butler Preserve

This park shelters diverse habitats on Lake Tibet-Butler. Orientyourself at nature center: hike to waterfront for wading birds likewhite ibises and anhingas, or walk to bayhead, hammocks andflatwoods for songbird migrants. Watch overhead for swallow-tailed

kites in spring/summer.DIRECTIONS: From I-4 on the S side of Orlando, take exit #68(Lake Buena Vista) and go W on North SR 535. SR 535 turns left0.5 mi. W of I-4. After you turn, continue on SR 535 for 5.3 mi.;site is on right (N) side of road.

Open Wed.-Sun., 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (407) 876-6696www.orangecountyfl.net

Gatorland

Black-crowned night-herons; great blue, little blue, green andtricolored herons; white ibises, wood storks and snowy egrets nestover alligator ponds. Boardwalks permit close views. Birds nest

Jan.-Aug., peaking April-June. Mention theBirding Trail for a 30% discount.

DIRECTIONS: Located 3 mi. N of Kissimmeeon US 441 (S. Orange Blossom Trail),

Gatorland is on E side of road.

Open summers 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., winters9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (407) 855-5496www.gatorland.com

The Nature ConservancysDisney Wilderness Preserve

Good educational facility with 7 miles of trails.Watch for turkeys and sandhill cranes on thedrive in. On the trail, expect raptors, bobwhites,wrens, warblers, bluebirds and sparrows. Scanlake for woodcocks, waders, snipe, king railsand ducks.

DIRECTIONS: From Kissimmee (US 192),take John Young Parkway S 3.6 mi. to

Pleasant Hill Rd. and go 7.6 mi. to OldPleasant Hill Rd. (marked with NatureConservancy sign). Turn left onto Old PleasantHill Rd. and go 0.6 mi. to entrance on left.

Open 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (407) 935-0002www.nature.org/florida

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Turkey Cluster


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Moss ParkWander the oak hammock for sandhill cranes and wild turkeys,scope the island in Lake Mary Jane in summer to watch nestingwood storks; check field at S end of property for raptors and hikethe wooded edges for migratory songbirds.

DIRECTIONS: From SR 436 just N of Orlando International Airport,take Hoffner Rd. (which becomes Narcoossee Rd./SR 15) E,becoming SE, for 6.5 mi. to Moss Park Rd. Turn left (E) onto MossPark Road and follow it 4 mi. to park at end.

Open summers 8:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., winters 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.(407) 273-2327 www.orangecountyfl.net

YEAR-ROUND

Split Oak Mitigation Park

Head S from entrance, across pasture and into oak hammock, tosee turkeys and songbirds. Propertys SE corner is good for

migrants. East of parking area, warblers frequent the scrubby oaks.Wading birds flourish in wetlands along N and NE boundaries.Additional access from E side, via Moss Park.

DIRECTIONS: From Orlando, take Narcoossee Rd. (CR 15) orBeeline Expressway (SR 528) E. From the intersection of SR 528

and CR 15, go 7 mi. S on CR 15. Turn left (E) on Clapp-Simms-Duda Rd. and follow signs to entrance.

Open dawn to dusk (863) 648-3203

Lake Lizzie Nature Preserve

Follow main trail S, make the first turn E, and curve back N againto follow powerline past Trout Lake. Watch for raptors, wrens,

sparrows and waders. Due S from parking area, wet prairie sheltersnesting sandhill cranes, snipe and woodcocks. Good for migrants.

DIRECTIONS: From St. Cloud, take US 192 E to CR 534A (PineGrove Rd.). Turn left (N) and then turn right (E) onto Bass Hwy.Go to Midland Rd., turn right and follow the road to park at end.

Open sunrise to sunset. (407) 343-3400 or (407) 343-3409

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Teal Cluster


20/36

Fox Lake Park

This site offers a variety of water and wading birds such as coots,snowy egrets, green herons and anhingas. Migrant songbirds preferthe oaks and forest edges. From a kayak (bring your own), youmay spot swallow-tailed kites, limpkins and roseate spoonbills.

DIRECTIONS: From intersection of SR 50 and SR 405 in Titusville,take 405 (South St.) N approx. 2.5 mi. to Fox Lake Rd. Turn left(W) and go 2 mi. to end.


YEAR-ROUND

Blue Heron Wetlands Treatment Facility

Waders, purple gallinules, bitterns and many wetland species arecommon year-round. Shorebirds and ducks winter in impoundmentslate Oct.-Feb., and northern harriers patrol marshes. Dikes areopen to vehicles; sign in at office.

DIRECTIONS: From Titusville, take SR 50 W. Turn left (S) onDeep Marsh Rd. approx. 0.5 mi. past I-95. Site is at end of road.If gate is closed, ring buzzer. Sign in at 1st building on left.

Open dawn to dusk, sign-in at office required.(321) 383-5642

YEAR-ROUND

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Map 15 - Teal Cluster

Teal Cluster

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Teal Cluster


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Kennedy Point Park

Scan the Indian River for wintering ducks, loons and grebes.Check for laughing, ring-billed and herring gulls along seawall.View ruddy turnstones around rocks and neighboring docks. Thishighly seasonal site is best in fall/winter.

DIRECTIONS: From Titusville, travel 0.25 mi. S on US 1 fromSR 50. Park is on the left (E) side of the road.


YEAR-ROUND

Pine Island Conservation Area

Watch migratory ducks like blue-winged teal and American wigeonsfrom blinds on ponds. Pine flatwoods on W side of property attractsongbirds; open marsh harbors waders and shorebirds. Duringhunts, check station at entrance will notify you that N part of theproperty is closed to birding.

DIRECTIONS: From the intersection of SR 528 and SR 3(N. Courtenay Pkwy.) on Merritt Is land, take SR 3 N 5 mi. to PineIsland Rd. Turn left (W) onto Pine Island Rd. Follow it 2.5 mi. to theparking lot at the end.

Open 7:00 a.m. to sunset. (321) 633-2046

www.eelbrevard.com

James G. Bourbeau Park

This St. Johns River floodplain site provides a view of the river.See waders like wood storks, migratory ducks in fall and winter,and shorebirds like black-necked stilts. Limpkins are likely, andoccasionally, crested caracaras and snail kites are seen.

DIRECTIONS: From Cocoa, take SR 520 approx. 5 mi. W of I-95.Park is on S side of the road on E side of the St. Johns Riverbridge.


Kelly Park

This Banana River vantage provides views of rafts of ducks likegreen-winged teal, common and red-throated loons and hornedgrebes in fall and winter. Scan exposed shoals at low tide ormudflats on the N side of causeway, for shorebirds and waders.

DIRECTIONS: On Merritt Island, take SR 528 E and exit on NorthBanana River Drive. Park is S of SR 528 on W side of the river.


Ports End Park

This site is worth a visit if youre already out by the Port checklock area for shorebirds like ruddy turnstones or the rocks forspotted sandpipers. Brown pelicans and double-crested cormorantsloaf on sea wall, along with great blue herons and snowy egrets.

DIRECTIONS: Take SR 528 E towards the Port and choose theB side (S) entrance into Port Canaveral. Turn left onto Mullet Dr.Ports End Park is located before drawbridge on right. CanaveralLocks are located at the very end of Mullet Dr.


YEAR-ROUND

Jetty Maritime Park

From N end of park, in fall/winter, check ship turning basin fromjetty for uncommon ducks and loons, cormorants and mergansers.Turnstones, willets and large flocks of terns, black skimmers andgulls loaf on beach. The hammock attracts migratory songbirds.

DIRECTIONS: Take SR 528 E towards Port Canaveral. Whenapproaching port facility, take B side (S) entrance and followGeorge King Boulevard E to Jetty Park.

Open 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (321) 783-7111

Rotary Park at Merritt Island

Primarily good for migratory songbirds in season, this site has anelevated boardwalk through a hardwood hammock. Its naturecenter is open by appointment for groups.

DIRECTIONS: Take SR 520 onto Merritt Island. Turn right (S) onCourtenay Pkwy and travel 2.5 mi. to park entrance on the right (W)

side of the road.


Lori Wilson Park

Check the hammock for migratory songbirds and painted buntings,

the coastal scrub for Florida scrub-jays, and the beach for shore-birds and seabirds. Up to 15 warbler species possible during springmigration.

DIRECTIONS: From SR 520 in Cocoa Beach, take SR A1A 3.5 mi.S. Park is on left (E) side of the road.

Open sunrise to sunset (nature center hours vary)(321) 633-1874

YEAR-ROUND

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Purple Gallinule Cluster


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Tenoroc Fish Management Area

Check in at office, and drive to Picnic Lake for waders, or hiketrail around Cemetery Lake, for wintering ducks like blue-wingedteal and hooded mergansers. From the dike trail across the roadfrom Picnic Lakes parking area, check overlook to see wadingbirds nesting in spring.

DIRECTIONS: From I-4 E of Lakeland, take exit #38 (SR33) S 1.6 mi. to SR 659. Veer left on Combee Rd. (SR 659)and go 1.2 mi. to Tenoroc Mine Rd. Turn left (E) and follow

road to main office on right. Check-in/out required.

Area is open for birding Friday through Monday, 6:00 a.m.to 5:30 p.m.; office is open all week, 8:00 to 5:00 p.m.(863) 499-2421 Tues.-Thurs., (863) 499-2422 Fri.- Mon.

Saddle Creek Park

Driving in, watch wetlands for waders like glossy ibises andlimpkins. Hike mixed hardwood and cypress forest at parksnorth end for a chance of seeing 36 warbler species in fallmigration from Aug.-Oct., and in April.

DIRECTIONS: From I-4, exit #38 (SR 33), go 1.6 mi. S toSR 659. Veer left and go 5 mi. to US 92 (Memorial Dr.).Turnleft (E), go 1.5 mi. to Saddle Creek Park Rd. Park on left (N).

Open 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (863) 534-4340www.polk-county.net/Community_Services/parks/index.htm

Lake Hollingsworth

Excellent views of many waders from the 3 mi. sidewalktrail. Look for purple gallinules, black-crowned night-herons,least bitterns, and terns in winter. See avocets and sand-pipers during low water, black-necked stilts in winter/spring,and white pelicans in winter.

DIRECTIONS: From I-4, take exit #32 (US 98, Florida Ave.)S into Lakeland. US 98 becomes SR 37; pass throughdowntown and turn left (E) on Beacon Ave. Road dead endson Lake Hollingsworth Dr., veer right. Public parking has 2entrances on left (N) side, beginning at Cleveland Heightslight. You are at southernmost point on the lake. Parking lotis one-way.

Open sunrise to sunset. City of Lakeland: (863) 834-6040www.publicworks.lakelandgov.net

YEAR-ROUND

Peace River Park

The floodplain forest is a migrant songbird hotspot. Walk board-walk to river and look for waders and migratory ducks. This site'sbird list includes 3 thrushes, 4 vireos and 22 warbler species.

DIRECTIONS: From Bartow, take SR 98 S to Homeland. Turn

left (E) on CR 640. Visit 2nd (boardwalk) park entrance on the Nside of CR 640 (approx. 0.8 mi. E of first entrance).

Open 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (321) 455-1385

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Ridge Cluster


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Lake Region Audubon's Street Nature CenterHike trails through hardwood forest to the lakefront. Excellent formigrants like indigo buntings during migration and residents likebelted kingfishers. Bald eagles likely on waterfront. The migratingwarbler list tops 20 species.

DIRECTIONS: From US 27 N of Lake Wales, take CR 540/Cypress Gardens Blvd. W to intersection with Old Cypress GardensRd. Turn N on Old Cypress Gardens Rd. and follow it through turnto W. After turn, look for Lameraux Rd. on right. Turn right (N) onLameraux. Center is on left at

115 Lameraux Rd. Park in lotat end of dirt entrance road.

Open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.(863) 324-7304

Eagle Ridge Mall

Eagle Ridge Mall has surprisingly good birding in retention pond onN side. In fall/winter and early spring, it is full of shorebirds, likedunlins, snipe and spotted sandpipers. Sandhill cranes roost here,and waders and bitterns frequent the pond, too.

DIRECTIONS: The Eagle Ridge Mall is located on E side of US 27,5 mi. N of Lake Wales and 17 mi. S of I-4.


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Map 17 - Ridge Cluster

Ridge Cluster



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Lake Kissimmee State Park

On the way, watch for caracaras, bald eagles, turkeys and bobwhites.Look for scrub-jays at entrance station, and at lake and picnic areasfor waders and snail kites. Check cow camp area for songbirdmigrants and marshy lake edge for an occasional whooping crane.

DIRECTIONS: From intersection of US 27 and SR 60 in LakeWales, take SR 60 E 9 mi. to Boy Scout Rd. Turn left (N) and takeBoy Scout Camp Rd. to Camp Mack Road. Turn right (E) and followCamp Mack Rd. to park entrance.


Bok Tower Gardens

This cultivated garden also has native landscape in which you canfind birds like kestrels, nighthawks, pileated woodpeckers, andloggerhead shrikes. Check the gardens for hummingbirds in spring/summer, also migratory songbirds Sept.-Oct., and in April.

DIRECTIONS: From US 27 N of SR 60, exit E onto Mountain LakeCutoff Rd. and go to US 17A. Turn right on 17A (S) and go 0.5 mi.to Burns Ave. Turn left (E) and go to top of hill; entrance to Gardenson left (N) side of the road.

Open 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission, 5:00 p.m.)(863) 676-1408www.boktower.org/

Lake Wailes

Drive to NW corner of the lake and park your car. Bird the oaks for

migrants in season, and look for waders, anhingas, sandhill cranes,and wintering duck species at the lake.

DIRECTIONS: On US 27 just N of SR 60 in Lake Wales, turn Eonto Central Ave. and proceed until it dead ends at lake. There are4 parking sites on the SW, NW, N and NE sides of lake.

Open sunrise to sunset. (863) 678-4182www.cityoflakewales.com

Ridge Audubon Nature Center

This nature center lies on the Lake Wales Ridge, Central Florida'selevated backbone, which supports some of the most rare uplandsin Florida. Walk nature trail to see a sandhill habitat, watching forbirds like eastern towhees, white-eyed vireos, ground doves andnighthawks.

DIRECTIONS: From intersection of US 27 and SR 60 in LakeWales, take US 27 S 4 mi. to CR 640. Turn left (E). CR 640 willjoin SR 17 as it turns S. Nature Center will be on SW corner ofintersection with North Crooked Lake Dr. in Babson Park.

Open 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Nature Trail open dawn to dusk.(863) 638-1355 E-mail: [email protected]

YEAR-ROUND

Lake Wales Ridge State Forest:Walk-in-the-Water Tract

Rustic site, best for a few, sought-after species. The main entranceat King Trail Gate is good for Florida scrub-jays, as well as fly-oversby short-tailed hawks. Other trails wind through scrub, may yield jays and eastern towhees, and occasionally, migratory songbirds.

DIRECTIONS: From Lake Wales, take SR 60 E approx. 7 mi. toWalk-in-the-Water Rd. Turn right (S) and go approx. 5 mi.

Entrances to forest will be on right side of road.


Lake Wales Ridge State Forest:Arbuckle Tract

On drive in, watch for scrub-jays in 5-foot tall oak scrub. On left,

trailheads lead through songbird habitat to Lake Arbuckle forwaders, eagles, limpkins and ducks. Reedy Creek Trail offerschance of short-tailed hawks and Lake Godwin flatwoods goodfor brown-headed nuthatches.

DIRECTIONS: From Lake Wales, take US 27 S 10 mi. toCR 630A. Go E 4 mi. (through Frostproof) to Lake Reedy Blvd. and

turn right (SE). Follow Lake Reedy Blvd. 3 mi. to Lake ArbuckleRoad. Turn left (E) on Lake Arbuckle Rd. Forest entrance will beapproximately 1 mi. on your right. Roads are dirt, but safe for2-wheel drive vehicles.





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Whooping Crane Cluster


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1 Forever Florida

Privately owned tour covers Crescent J Ranch anduntouched flatwoods, prairies and hammocks ofForever Florida Preserve. Turkeys, eagles andsandhill cranes likely. Explore the Bull Creek hammock,listening for songbirds and watching for waders. Callfor details/reservations.

DIRECTIONS: From St. Cloud, take US 192 E toUS 441. Turn right (S) and go 7.5 mi. Forever Florida

will be on the left (E) side of the road.

Open 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (888) 957-9794www.foreverflorida.com

Joe Overstreet Landing

As you drive down Joe Overstreet Road, look in thepastures for whooping cranes, sandhill cranes andturkeys, and on the fenceposts for meadowlarks, baldeagles and crested caracaras. At the end, check forlimpkins, waders and snail kites, and scope for ducks.

DIRECTIONS: From St. Cloud, take VermontAve./Canoe Creek Rd. (CR 523) S 19.3 mi. to JoeOverstreet Rd. Turn right (SW) and follow the road tothe boat ramp at the end.

Open sunrise to sunset.

YEAR-ROUND

Three Lakes WildlifeManagement Area

Driving loop runs 5 mi. through flatwoods, hammocks and scrub.Songbirds in oaks/pines; red-cockaded woodpeckers nest beforeexit. Turkeys, wood storks and limpkins common; grasshopper

and Bachman's sparrows, short-tailed hawks, white-tailed kitesoccasional in remote parts. Call ahead for hunting information.

DIRECTIONS: From St. Cloud, go 24.7 mi. S on Vermont Ave./Canoe Creek Rd. (CR 523) to the Prairie Lakes/Lake Jacksonentrance sign on right (W) side of road. Use this entrance forwildlife drive.

Open 24 hours a day. (352) 732-1225 www.state.fl.us/fwc/

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Whooping Crane Cluster

Map 18 - Whooping Crane Cluster



Map

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Migrant Fallout Cluster


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Brevard ZooZoo's native animal area provides up-close looks at species likethe crested caracara, and offers programs on their conservation.Guided kayaking program available through on-site wetland, whereyou can see wild wading birds, ducks and songbirds. Call fordetails/reservations.

DIRECTIONS: N of Melbourne, take exit #191 (Wickham Rd.) offI-95. Go E to the 2nd light. Site will be on right (S) side of the roadat the intersection of Wickham and Murrell.

Open 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.(321) 254-9453 x19 www.brevardzoo.org

YEAR-ROUND

Rotary Park at Suntree

Worth a quick stop in fall and winter. At low tide,waders and shorebirds feed along shoreline

and at N end of property, a small shelteredbay harbors wintering ducks as well as loonsand grebes.

DIRECTIONS: From the intersection ofSR 404 and US 1, take US 1 N 2 mi. Siteis on right (E) side of the road.


Wickham Park

Park's scrubby flatwoods are home to brown-headed nuthatches and bobwhites, paintedbuntings and chuck-will's-widows. Playingfields are good for raptors and killdeers; wooded

nature trails provide good chances for migrants.Pick up a map at office on right at entrance.

DIRECTIONS: From I-95 N of Melbourne, takeWickham Rd. E 6 mi. Turn left (E) onto ParkwayDr. Wickham Park will be 0.5 mi. on left (N) side.


Lake Washington Park

Look for waders, eagles, purple gallinule, marsh and sedge wrens,and limpkin at waterfront. Snail kites living on lake are seenoccasionally from this vantage, more often at the SE corner ofthe lake from the dirt Sarno Road Extension (site #108). Sparrowslike fallow edges of park; look for bobolinks in migration.

DIRECTIONS: From US 1 N of Melbourne, take Lake WashingtonRd. W 6 mi. to the park at the end.


YEAR-ROUND


J F M A M J J A S O N D Map 19 - Migrant Fallout Cluster


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Erna Nixon Park

Site has excellent programming and in-depth native plant walk tolearn more about habitats upon which Florida's birds depend. Birdthe property in morning, watching for summer tanagers, easterntowhees and mixed warbler flocks in migration.

DIRECTIONS: From I-95 in Melbourne, take US 192 E to EvansRd. Turn left (N) on Evans Rd. and go 0.8 mi. to the park on the left(W) side of the road.

Open 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (321) 952-4650www.brevardparks.com

Turkey Creek Sanctuary

This migratory hot spot's warbler list has more than 30 species,including Canada, Nashville, Swainson's and Tennessee. Migrationheaviest in October and again in April; bird boardwalk along creekthrough hammocks and past a sand pine ridge. Tours available inseason.

DIRECTIONS: From I-95 in Palm Bay, take exit #176 onto PalmBay Rd. Go E on Palm Bay Rd. to Babcock St. and turn right (S).Make a left (E) onto Port Malabar Blvd and continue E 1 mi. toPalm Bay Community Center on right. Parking for sanctuary is

behind Community Center.

Open 7:00 a.m. to sunset. (321) 952-3433

Malabar Scrub Sanctuary

This site shelters scrub habitat with breeding populations of scrub-jays. Sandy scrub trails provide views of scrub-jays and other birds,including songbird migrants, woodpeckers, sparrows and easterntowhees. Morning hours best for avoiding heat and full sun.

DIRECTIONS: Exit I-95 in Palm Bay at Malabar Rd. (SR 514, exit#173). Take Malabar Rd. east approximately 2.5 mi. Entrance is onleft (N) side of road immediately E of fire station.

Open 7:00 a.m. to sunset. (321) 255-4466www.eelbrevard.com

Coconut Point Park

This small beach park warrants a quick stop for shorebirds such asblack-bellied plovers and red knots in fall/winter, and to scope forgannets and seabirds offshore. Watch winter surf for common andred-throated loons.

DIRECTIONS: From Melbourne, take US 192 E to A1A. Go S5.5 mi., site is on left (E) side of the road.


Honest John's Fish Camp

Site offers unique access to wading bird roosts/rookeries, viewed

by small motorboats, or by kayak/canoe (available for rent).Nesting/resting birds are vulnerable to disturbance; this is anopportunity to view them while learning about responsible bird-watching.

DIRECTIONS: From Melbourne Beach, take SR A1A 10 mi. S toMullet Creek Rd. Turn right (W) on Mullet Creek Rd. Site is at endof the road. Please respect private property along this road by notexiting your car until you've reached the site.

Open 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.Closed Christmas Day and Tuesdays, May-Oct.(321) 727-2923www.honestjohns.net



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*ADA accessible on center road

* 2 weeks notice required for guided tours



Vero Vireo Cluster


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T. M. Goodwin Waterfowl

Management Area

Expect gamut of ducks in late fall/winter, as well as shorebirdsand hawks in migration. Area closed to birders during hunts; call inadvance for info. Hike dikes around the impoundments. Road intothe area can be good for everything from swallow-tailed kites tobobwhites to caracaras.

DIRECTIONS: From I-95 and CR 512 intersection, N of Vero

Beach, go W 3 mi. to CR 507 (Babcock St.). Turn right (N) and go5 mi. Turn left (W) onto Fellsmere Grade Rd. just S of the C-54canal. At Stick Marsh boat ramp, follow signs to site entrance.

Open one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset.(321) 726-2862http://wld.fwc.state.fl.us/duck/

St. Sebastian River

State Buffer Preserve

North entrance: Bachman's sparrows,scrub-jays and red-cockaded woodpeckerson the NE part of horse trail accessedvia Stumper Flats trail. Green, Blue and

Red trails have hammock with migratorysongbirds and swallow-tailed kites.South entrance: open space with raptors,meadowlarks.

DIRECTIONS: From I-95 N of Vero Beach,exit at CR 512. For N entrance: go W 3 mi.to Babcock St. (CR 507). Turn right andgo 5 mi. Enter at Buffer Preserve Dr. onright (E) side of the road immediately aftercrossing the C-54 canal. For S entrance:

go E on CR 512 from I-95 1.8 mi. to W. W.Ranch Rd. Turn left (N); follow road intopreserve.

Open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.(321) 953-5004www.dep.state.fl.us/

Sebastian Inlet State Park

Site has waders and shorebirds, views of ocean for gannets,jaegers, shearwaters and petrels, and mangrove margins formigratory songbirds. Park also offers guided boat tours to PelicanIsland National Wildlife Refuge, great for nesting and roostingwaders. Call ahead for reservations.

DIRECTIONS: Take A1A N 12 mi. from Vero Beach. Entrancestation on the N side of Sebastian Inlet bridge, on left (W) sideof the road.

Open 24 hours a day. (321) 984-4852

YEAR-ROUND

Map 20 - Vero Vireo Cluster

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Vero Vireo Cluster / Scrub and Stream Cluster


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Environmental Learning Center

Nature center fronts on Indian River Lagoon, providing easy accessfor educational adventures with lagoon's wildlife birds included!Waders galore, including roseate spoonbills and reddish egrets,use lagoon for food and shelter. Call for program schedules andreservations.

DIRECTIONS: From Vero Beach, take US 1 N to Wabasso. Turnright (E) on CR 510. Cross causeway over Indian River. Turn righton Wabasso Island Ln. BEFORE crossing over the tall bridge. Siteis ahead, on right.

Open Tues.-Fri. 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Sat. 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.(4:00 p.m. in winter), Sun. 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. (772) 589-5050www.elcweb.org

YEAR-ROUND

Blue Cypress Conservation Area

This property includes impounded marshes, harboring migratoryand resident ducks, as well as waders, including limpkins. Purplegallinules have been seen, as have both bitterns, king rails, soras,fulvous whistling ducks, snail kites and caracaras. Hike dike trailsto view impoundments.

DIRECTIONS: From Vero Beach, take SR 60 W, 7.5 mi. pastI-95. Turn right (N) on CR 512. Travel 1.5 mi.; turn left (W) intoparking area.

Open 24 hours a day.http://sjr.state.fl.us/

Indian River County Wetlands TreatmentFacility

These created wetlands have a boardwalk system, allowing easyviewing of waders, 8 duck species, and water- and shorebirds(moorhens, purple gallinules, king rails, soras, snipe, stilts and bothyellowlegs, among others). Check in and out at office.

DIRECTIONS: From I-95, exit at SR 60/Vero Beach. Go E 1 lightto 90th Ave.; turn right (S). Go to 8th St. and turn left (E). Site isapprox. 0.75 mi. on right (S).

Mon.-Fri. 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., weekends 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.by appointment. (772) 770-5045

Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area

Herb Kale Trail begins through hammock good for songbirdmigrants, and continues on to mangrove swamps and impound-ments. In impoundments, look for waders, shorebirds and ducksfrom the trail or overlook.

DIRECTIONS: Take US 1 S from Vero Beach to Oslo Rd. (9thSt. SE). Turn left (E); site will be 0.5 mi. on left (N).


Highlands Hammock State Park

For scrub and flatwoods species, veer right after the entrance,through campground, and hike biking trails. Neotropical migrantsand waders can be seen by driving hammock loop. Cypress swamp

trail has unique catwalk through wetland with diversity of waders,including wood storks.

DIRECTIONS: From US 27 on N side of Sebring, take HammockRoad (CR 635) 3 mi. W to park entrance.


Istokpoga Park

Park is on N shore of massive Lake Istokpoga. When approachingfrom SE on SR 98, watch for caracaras. At park, scan boat basinfor waders, including limpkins, and scope lake for wintering ducks.Follow trail to E and then N along boardwalk through cypressmargin, watching for songbirds.

DIRECTIONS: From intersection of US 27 and SR 98, 4 mi. S ofSebring, take SR 98 NE 8 mi. Site is on right (S), just E of Arbuckle

Creek bridge, in Lorida.Open sunrise to sunset. (863) 386-6812

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Scrub and Stream Cluster / Caracara Cluster

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Hickory Hammock

On N side of SR 98 immediately W of Kissimmee River, barred,barn, screech and great horned owls live around abandonedschoolhouse at entrance. Second entrance to property is approx.3 mi. NW on SR 98. Watch for scrub-jays on telephone wires, andburrowing owls, caracaras in pastures along US 98. Trail through

xeric hammock and scrub is on N side of the road.

DIRECTIONS: Site is located between Sebring and Okeechobeeon SR 98, just W of the Kissimmee River.

Open sunrise to sunset. (941)462-5260

Lake June-in-Winter Scrub State Park

This scrub sanctuary is nestled in the highlands of the Lake WalesRidge. For scrub-jays, hike Bobcat Trail S from entrance gate. Fromparking area, brief Tomoka Trail runs through streamside hammockperfect for neotropical migrants; check lakefront for waders, ducks.

DIRECTIONS: Take US 27 N of Lake Placid to CR 621 (Lake JuneRd.). Turn W and go 4 mi. to Dafadil Rd. Turn left (S) on DafadilRd. Park is 2 mi. ahead at end of road.


Prairie Bird Loops

Two driving loops give good overview of species seen in the area.Watch for caracaras on fence posts, waders and shorebirds atwatering holes, burrowing owls and sandhill cranes in pastures,and swallow-tailed kites around hammocks. Remember to respectprivate property.

DIRECTIONS: Long loop (if you'd like to visit Kissimmee PrairieState Preserve): from Okeechobee, travel 15 mi. N on US 441 toCR 724 (Eagle Island Rd.). Turn left (W); go 12 mi. to CR 700A

(Durrance Rd.); turn left (S); go 6 mi. S on CR 700A to US 98; turnleft (SE); go 15 mi. to SR 70 just W of Okeechobee.Short loop: Again, take US 441 N from Okeechobee; turn left (W)after 9 mi., onto CR 68A (Potter Rd.). Becomes CR 68, and inter-sects US 98 after 10 mi. Turn left (SE) on US 98; go14 mi. to SR70, just W of Okeechobee.

Public roads unlimited access.

YEAR-ROUND

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Caracara Cluster



Map 21 - Scrub and Stream Cluster

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Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park Lock 7: Jaycee Park

Caracara Cluster

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Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park

One of last remaining dry prairies, home to caracaras and Floridagrasshopper sparrows. As you approach site, look in pastures on Wside just prior to park entrance for burrowing owls. DO NOT ENTERTHIS PRIVATELY OWNED PROPERTY; YOU MAY ONLY VIEWTHESE OWLS FROM THE ROAD. In the park, hike Peavine Trail

past Military Grade, to slough full of alligators and waders. HikingMilitary Grade to the W instead passes prime Florida grasshoppersparrow habitat.

DIRECTIONS: From Okeechobee, go N on US 441 to CR 724(Eagle Island Rd.). Turn left (W); go 15 mi. to stop sign. Go paststop sign 1 mi. to 192nd Ave. (Peavine Rd.). Turn right (N); go 5 mi.to the site.


Lock 7: Jaycee Park

A park beside Lake Okeechobee that has waders, and occasionalflocks of thousands of skimmers in the parking lot in fall/winter.Royal, caspian and least terns sometimes join them. Watch forbrown pelicans, white pelicans, cormorants, anhingas, loons andgrebes offshore.

DIRECTIONS: From Okeechobee, take US 441 S 3 mi. to SR 78.Turn right (E); take an immediate left to cross over Hoover Dike.Site is immediately on lake side of dike.


YEAR-ROUND

Okee-Tantie

Look for waders like wood storks in boat basins,woodpeckers and songbirds in edges. From theeasternmost point, scope lake for ducks and viewblue heron rookery.

DIRECTIONS: Site is 5 mi. W of intersectionof SR 78 and US 441, on S side of road atKissimmee River bridge.

Open 24 hours a day. (800) 871-4403

YEAR-ROUND

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Map 22 - Caracara Cluster

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Florida Ranch Tours

Sandhill Crane Cluster

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Florida Ranch Tours

Ft. Pierce Inlet State Park

Drive to end of entrance road, and bird SW tip for loafing shore-birds on sand spits on W side of point. From ocean side, watchfor plovers and willets, terns and gulls, and in winter, loons andcormorants in surf. Trail beginning from the N end of beachparking area worth a peek in migration.

DIRECTIONS: From I-95, take Okeechobee Rd. (SR 70) E toUS 1. Turn N on US 1; go to SR A1A (North Beach Causeway).Cross Lagoon on causeway. Follow signs to park on right (S) sideof the road.


Map 23 - Sandhill Crane Cluster

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Indrio Savannahs

Upon parking, bird the lake margins for snipe, waders andmigratory ducks. Walk S across footbridge onto dike trail, throughwetlands where bitterns, migratory ducks and waders can be found.Explore uplands on the W side of lake, watching for neotropicalmigrants in trees, scrub-jays in scrub.

DIRECTIONS: From Ft. Pierce, take US 1 N 4.0 mi. to Tozour Rd.Turn left (W) on Tozour Rd. Entrance is at the N end of the road.

Open sunrise to sunset. (772) 462-2525 www.stlucieco.gov

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Sandhill Crane ClusterMap

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Bear Point Sanctuary

Site includes impoundments lined with mangroves on Indian RiverLagoon. Waders are common, and both night herons skulk inmangroves. Area can have good migratory songbird fall-outsduring spring return migration.

DIRECTIONS: From US 1 in Ft. Pierce, go E on Seaway Drive,across Indian River to S SR A1A. Site is approx. 2 mi. S on SRA1A, on right (W) side of the road.

Open 24 hours a day. (772) 462-1685

Pinelands

Watch for turkeys, bobwhites, wood storks and caracaras on driveto site, and waders like glossy ibises in roadside wetlands. Parkat entrance; hike dikes W and then S in series of loop trails.Shorebirds like wetland margins; songbirds frequent pinelands.Follow directions to this remote site carefully.

DIRECTIONS: From Ft. Pierce, go W on Okeechobee Rd. (SR 70)16 mi. Turn left (S) just past the cellular tower onto V.P.I. Grove Rd.Go 1.5 mi. to end of road; turn left (E). Go 1 mi. to entrance at theend.

Open sunrise to sunset. (772) 462-2525 www.stlucieco.gov

Savannas Preserve State Park

Park at corral-fenced gate; hike property, through flatwoods tosavannah overlook at N end of trail, or tow canoe in and explore bypaddle. Wading birds nest throughout wetland, so please respectcongregations of birds and maintain a 300-foot distance for theirwell-being.

DIRECTIONS: From Ft. Pierce, take US 1 S to Walton Rd. Travel2 mi. E on Walton Rd. to corral-fenced parking area on the left (N)side.


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Birder I.D.

Name ______________________________________________

Street ______________________________________________

City ________________________________________________

State _________ County ______________________________

Country __________________ Zip _____________________

E-mail ______________________________________________

Home phone _________________________________________

Work Phone _________________________________________

Request for Information

_____ Add my name to your mailing list

_____ Send mailings electronically

_____ Send a site nomination form also available online *

_____ Send a Trail Sponsorship packet

_____ Send a copy of Birding Trail brochure

_____ Send Birdwatching Basics also available online *

Other: ______________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

The Great Florida Birding Trail is a program of the

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

* www.floridabirdingtrail.com

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Gateways

For More Information...or to be added to the mailing list for the Great FloridaBirding Trail, fill in the response form at left (includingyour name and address on reverse side) and mail to:

OR visit the Trails Web site at:

Updates include news on the Trail's progressand Trail-related birding events across the state.Information also is available regarding Trailsponsorship, site nominations for the upcomingsections (West Florida, South Florida and Panhandlesections), tips for better birding and the economic

impact of this flourishing pastime.Take part in the development of this great newresource for birders of all levels, while enjoying andensuring continued concern for the conservation ofFloridas fabulous avian treasures!

GatewaysThis East Section of the Great Florida Birding Trail

has three designated gateway sites which provide

more extensive Trail-related resources. They are:

Ft. Clinch State Park (Nassau Co.), Merritt Island

National Wildlife Refuge (Brevard Co.) and Tenoroc

Fish Management Area (Polk Co.). Each site has

staff on hand to answer questions about the Trail,

kiosks with information about the Trail structure and

their visitor centers offer information about birding

classes and events occurring across the state. Hop

on the Trail at a Gateway and get off to a flying start!

Your country, state and county of origin________________

_______________________________________________

Where did you hear about the Trail?__________________

_______________________________________________

What is your goal in using the Trail? (eg: finding a specific

species of bird, seeing a diversity of birds or simply enjoying the

outdoors). _______________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

How long have you had this guide?___________________

How many sites have you visited?____________________

Which site was best? Why?________________________

_______________________________________________

Which site was worst? Why?_______________________

_______________________________________________

How many days have you spent birding in the last month?

_______________________________________________

How long was your last birding trip on the East Florida Birding

Trail?___________________________________________

How much money did you spend on lodging, food and gas on

the above birding trip? $_____________________________

Will you recommend the Trail to friends?_______________

Please detach and mail us your valued response

to the GFBT address at upper right. Thank you!

Rate the Trail!Mail-In Response Form

www.floridabirdingtrail.com

Great Florida Birding Trail (or GFBT)620 South Meridian StreetTallahassee, FL 32399-1600

Loaner optics are available free of chargeat all three Gateways! Ask at a Gatewayvisitor center to try out a pair today!

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Trail TipsTrail TipsWhen birding...

Take along water, sunscreen and bug spray.

Make reservations in advance for by-appointmentonly sites.

Check seasonality of site; are you visiting at theright time of year?

Birding Ethics

Dont you hate it when the doorbell or telephone ringsjust as you settle down to dinner or a nap? Whilemere nuisances to us, disruptions in feeding andnesting routines can spell disaster for birds, especiallythe cumulative effect of frequent disruptions, a com-mon occurence at busy sites. When a nesting bird isforced to fly, it may leave eggs or young exposed totemperature extremes or predators. A migratory birdmay be exhausted and hungry from a long flight it

needs to rest and eat. With care and common sense,birders can help protect the birds they love to watch.

Consider these points:

Stay back from concentrations of nesting or loafingwaterbirds a spotting scope may be a betterchoice than binoculars.

Walk around groups of birds on the beach rather

than forcing them to fly.

Sit or crouch so that you appear smaller.

Keep movements slow and

Great Florida Birding Trail Map - East Florida

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