After several aborted missions to Merritt Island, we decided to forego that destination due to the vagaries of SpaceX launches and head inland instead.  On Sunday, January 19, 2020, a small but enthusiastic group ventured to Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive.  Lake Apopka is one of the premier birding destinations in Florida. The water quality restoration project which began there in 2003 provides habitat for an amazing variety of birds and other wildlife.

Twelve people braved a cool windy morning for some good birding.   The trip was led by Kathy Mayshar.   Pelican Island was the first national wildlife refuge in the country.   In 1963, because of the significance of being the first NWR, it was listed as a National Historic Site. 

The group first went to the boardwalk and pond on a short half mile walk.   We saw three species of ducks there:  American Widgeon, Blue-winged Teal, and Northern Shovelers.  While we were looking at the ducks, a Bald Eagle flew by and delighted us with his presence. 

November 13, 2019

JONES HAMMOCK & PLATT’S CREEK PRESERVE, FORT PIERCE 

The group of 5 birders started the day under threat of rain, but even so, had a great time and saw a great distribution of species.  Some expected species were not encountered (Limpkin), and some were new (Red-tailed Hawk).  Open water in the wetland is now minimal, with vegetation established and growing rapidly, changing the dynamics of species utilizing the combined sites.  Other species of note included Sedge Wren, Blue Grosbeak and Yellow-rumped Warbler (Audubon’s).  A total of 47 species were reported.

On the first field trip of the season, seven participants were treated to good weather and some unusual species for Paleo Hammock, including Brown Thrasher and Sharp-Shinned Hawk.  … The group saw five Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, the most ever seen at Paleo Hammock, according to eBird records! 

SPOIL ISLANDS BOAT TOUR

We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful day.  It was sunny, with soft breezes and a comfortable humidity level.  We had a total of 13 participants and many were returns from last year’s trip. We started out with the same enthusiasm as last year, with two boats, one piloted by Matthew Anderson and the other by his colleague Kirk Fusco.  

March 23, 2019

PAINTED BUNTING FEEDER WATCH

The Painted Buntings flew in and out of the feeders as we gazed out the window at the lovely garden.  The only word I can use to describe the experience is enchanting.  It was challenging to count them, but we estimated about 15, but there could have been more.  There were also Indigo Buntings.

Our annual trip to Wakodahatchee Wetlands and Green Cay Nature Center did not disappoint.  Eleven birders and photographers observed a total of 64 species.  At Wakodahatchee, Wood Stork, Double-crested Cormorant, Anhinga, Great Blue Heron and Green Heron were nesting right by the boardwalk, allowing for great views and photos. 

JOE OVERSTREET LANDING, KENANSVILLE, FL

February 9, 2019

We were literally up before the birds in order to be in place roadside at Three Lakes WMA Campground to observe Red-cockaded Woodpeckers leave their roosting tree.  Those participants who arrived early saw two of the rare birds leave the roost for the day; nearly everyone in the group got at least brief views of one bird that returned to the area to forage.  An additional treat was listening to the “squeaky toy” calls of several Brown-headed Nuthatches in the same habitat.