Best Places to Go Birding and Reconnect with Nature in Indian River County
Indian River County is a birding paradise nestled along the east coast of Florida. With diverse wetlands, marshes, forests, and pristine coastline, this region offers incredible opportunities for birdwatchers to explore their passion. Join us as we dive into the top birding hotspots and some of the unique species you can find here in Indian River County to leave you with an unforgettable birding adventure.
Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge
As you step onto the refuge, you’re greeted with the tranquil sounds of nature and the vibrant colors of feathered inhabitants. Here bird enthusiasts can explore a diverse range of birds like Brown Pelicans, Roseate Spoonbills, Reddish Egrets, Snowy Egrets, Black Skimmers, and American Oystercatchers. Explore the area by hiking designated trails and boardwalks, and by boating to get the most out of your experience. The Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge continues to allow appreciation for the remarkable diversity of life thriving within its boundaries, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a deeper connection with nature.
The Environmental Learning Center (ELC) offers a range of engaging programs and activities designed to inspire a deeper appreciation for nature. Which allows visitors plenty of opportunities to see a range of feathered friends. While at the ELC, some of the different bird species you can expect to find include Ospreys, Great Blue Herons, Roseate Spoonbills, White Ibis, Red-Winged Blackbirds, Woodpeckers, and though uncommon, lucky visitors can even see Bald Eagles. So, be on the lookout for birds while you explore the ELC on their different eco-tours on pontoon boats, kayaks, and canoes or while walking guided tours around campus.
As the mouth of the Saint Johns River, one of the only two rivers to flow north, Blue Cypress Lake serves as a critical habitat for a variety of bird species and is renowned for its population of majestic birds. Some of the other species you can expect to find are the Limpkin, Anhinga, Great Egrets, Double-crested Cormorant, and Wood Storks. For the best results, make sure to scan tree tops and canopies, and time your visit, mornings and late afternoons are the best times. Visitors can take guided airboat tours and kayaking excursions to see the abundance of bird species that call Blue Cypress home.
Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area
The Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area is open from sunrise to sunset and has 298 acres of diverse habitats that include wetlands, hammocks, and estuaries. The different habitats make this a perfect location to find unique species of birds. Some species of birds found here are Painted Bunting, Clapper Rail, American Kestrel, Belted Kingfisher, and Yellow-Crowned Night-Heron. Bird enthusiasts and visitors alike will be rewarded for keeping their eyes out while exploring this beautiful conservation area. While searching for birds, be sure to respect their natural habitat and avoid getting too close to nests and other sensitive areas.
