Owing to its year-round mild weather, wide variety of ecosystems, and location along a number of migratory routes, Florida’s First Coast region is one of the best areas in the country for birding. Are you a resident of Jacksonville, FL and an avid birdwatcher? Do yourself a favor and plug in these prime birdwatching destinations into your Mini Cooper S Countryman’s advanced navigation system!
4 Favorite Birdwatching Spots You Can Drive to From Jacksonville, FL
1. Bird Island Park
As its name implies, Bird Island serves as a beautiful sanctuary for many bird species. The quiet, peaceful park features boardwalk paths, gazebos, and a maze for visitors to explore.
At the park’s center, there’s a large pond with a lush island that’s surrounded by various birds, including ducks, blue herons, egrets, and anhingas. You’ll also be delighted to see the adorable otters and small turtles swimming together in the water.
2. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
Located just north of Bird Island, Hanna Park is another great place to view anhingas and herons. Along with the blue heron, you’ll be able to view herons of the green and tricolor varieties.
The verdant park’s many flowering plants mean that you’ll also see hummingbirds fluttering about as they treat themselves to a nectar buffet. There are several hiking and biking trails that can be taken and a lake that’s popular with kayakers.
3. William F Sheffield Regional Park
At 385 acres, this park is quite expansive and hosts numerous facilities, including soccer and baseball fields, a community pool, and a skate park. It’s also home to some of the finest scenery and birding in Jacksonville’s Northside.
The grounds are deeply wooded and feature two large ponds, so it’s a popular rest stop for birds on a long journey. Commonly observed species include the brown thrasher, pied-billed grebe, common yellowthroat, and cardinal.
4. Little Talbot Island State Park
Little Talbot Island is one of the region’s last remaining undeveloped barrier islands, so Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection has made sure that it remains untouched by making it part of the state park system. The park is also notable for its white sand dunes from which you can view a large variety of ocean and migratory birds. Many birdwatchers come to see groups of northern gannets dive bombing into the sea in order to catch their prey.
During the spring, red knots traveling all the way from Argentina comb the shoreline in search of surf clams before continuing north to their breeding grounds in Canada.
No matter the time of year, there are always great birding opportunities when you’re living in the Jacksonville area! Before you head out on your next sightseeing excursion, stop by Tom Bush MINI today and check out our showroom’s new models!
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