Feathering Your Nest: A Guide to the Best Bird-Watching and Wildlife Hotspots
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Red-Shouldered Hawk
1. First stop, Big Lagoon State Park, where the saltwater marshes, pine flatwoods, and sand dunes are home to a feathered menagerie, from ospreys to brown pelicans to white ibis. And while you're there, don't forget to take a hike, rent a canoe, and check out the nature center to get the full avian experience. https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/big-lagoon-state-park
2. Next up, Perdido Key State Park, where the shorebirds are ready for their close-up. Get a glimpse of sandpipers, plovers, and terns as you enjoy the white sand beaches. And don't forget to keep an eye out for ospreys and pelicans, because they're always hanging around looking for a good time. https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/perdido-key-state-park
3. Then, head over to Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park, where the saltwater marshes, pine flatwoods, and live oak hammocks are the perfect habitat for great blue herons, snowy egrets, and northern parulas. Take a hike, rent a kayak, and try your hand at fishing for the ultimate birding adventure. https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/tarkiln-bayou-preserve-state-park
4. Gulf Islands National Seashore is next on the list, where miles of undeveloped beaches, dunes, and wetlands are the perfect spot for bird-watching. Spot ospreys, pelicans, and terns as you explore the area. And don't forget to pack a tent and enjoy some camping while you're at it. https://www.nps.gov/guis/index.htm
5. After that, it's time to visit the Pensacola Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, where the salt marshes, pine flatwoods, and dune systems are the perfect spot to spot ospreys, pelicans, and warblers. Take a hike or rent a kayak to explore the reserve and get a closer look at the birds. http://www.floridaocean.org/pensacola-bay-nerr
Barred Owl
6. But wait, there's more! Gulf Breeze Zoo is the place to be for exotic birds and animals from around the world, including African lions, zebras, and primates. The bird aviary is a must-see for bird lovers, where you can see a variety of exotic birds such as parrots, toucans, and flamingos. And don't miss the Discovery Center where you can learn more about the animals and their habitats. https://www.gulfbreezezoo.org/
7. Naval Live Oaks Nature Preserve is also a great spot for bird-watching, where visitors can spot a wide variety of birds such as ospreys, pelicans, and warblers. The preserve also features a variety of wildlife such as deer, raccoons, and alligators. https://www.nps.gov/guis/planyourvisit/naval-live-oaks.htm
8. The Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail is a must-visit for bird and wildlife enthusiasts, with a wide variety of bird-watching and wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the state, including many sites in the Pensacola area. https://www.floridabirdingtrail.com/
9. Fort Pickens Area is a great spot for bird-watching, where visitors can spot migratory birds such as the American White Pelican and the Piping Plover. Take a guided tour of the fort and learn about the history of the area while keeping an eye out for these feathered friends. https://www.nps.gov/guis/planyourvisit/fort-pickens.
10. Johnson Beach is another great spot for bird-watching, especially in the fall and winter when many species migrate through the area. Spot shorebirds and waders as you enjoy the white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico. https://www.nps.gov/guis/planyourvisit/johnson-beach.htm
11. And last but not least, Blackwater River State Forest offers miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as opportunities for bird-watching. Visitors can spot a wide variety of birds such as Red-shouldered Hawks, Pileated Woodpeckers, and Bachman Sparrows, and keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer, raccoons, and alligators. https://www.floridastateforests.org/blackwater
Green Herons
With a plethora of birdwatching hotspots, from lush marshes to sandy beaches, you'll be singing a sweet song of happiness. And the best part? There are so many feathered friends to discover, you'll be hooked for life! So grab your binoculars and join the flock, it's time for some winged wonder in Pensacola.