Birding the Florida Panhandle

[Julie Brown]

I will be in Miramar Beach the last week in December and Panama City the last week of March. I would appreciate any suggestions on where to go to shoot birds.

Thanks!:D

Also what lenses you might recommend. I shoot Canon and will be renting a lens to take on both trips.

[Bob Barnett]

I can't really help much BUT there should be some dolphin cruises nearby. You will get some good shots at dolphins but also lots of birds. Mainly gulls and pelicans but still fun and a lot of good photography opps. I went in Destin and loved it! Southern Star was who I used.

[Julie Brown]

Thank you Bob. I appreciate the suggestion. That sounds like fun!

[Jim Michael]

It's been a few years but I recall seeing quite a few birds at the St. Andrews State Park (http://www.floridastateparks.org/standrews/) near Panama City. There was a nature trail.

[Julie Brown]

Thanks for the link, Jim. I will definitely check that out!

[Robert vanMierop]

I second St. Andrews State Park, west of Panama City. But to the east, just past the Air Force base, is a long stretch of beach called Mexico Beach, and an awesome area called Cape San Blas. I lived over that way for about 8 years and spent much of my outdoors time there. Drive out there, get out and walk, and have fun.

[Julie Brown]

Thank you Bobby. It is always nice to get tips from people who have lived in the area. I appreciate it!

[Bruce Miller]

Last time there I got a book on the Florida birding trail. Try a google search. There a books fir different regions. I think you can down load them too.

[Julie Brown]

Thanks Bruce!

[Cal Walters]

Check the Great Florida Birding Trail web site. I was in a similar position in Lakeland, Ft. Lauderdale, and Everglades at Thanksgiving and found several great places. Good Birding.

[Julie Brown]

Thanks Cal. I will check that out!