I have internal meetings in Orlando for couple of days during the early part of March and I have been pondering if I should bring the camera with me and stay over the rest of the week / weekend. If I decide to do something like that, to where should I head in Florida (Ding Darling, Venice Rookery or where) at that time of the year for few days? I don’t mind driving “couple” of hours if that gives me better chances to photo local and wintering birds.
You will be fairly close to Viera Wetlands, Merrit Island and Circle B Bar Reserve, and a little farther to Fort DeSoto Park. I think it would definitely be worth taking a little bit of extra time to do some bird photography. March is a good time of year for that...and to warm up!
I made my decision and decided to use the opportunity and stay in Florida for few days after my meetings. My plan is to stay in Orlando / Kissimmee area for two days and then drive to Fort Desoto for another two days. In Kissimmee area I would like to get photos mainly from Snail Kites and Caracaras. In Fort Desoto I’m planning to photo anything which moves
The question is now; is my plan too amphibious, meaning is two days for example enough for Snail Kites and Caracaras? I have bought Sir Morris’ Fort Desoto guide and Mr. Neiger Central Florida guide and I’m planning to study them so that I’ll find the right places when I eventually get there. Any input from you guys is highly appreciated, as is also any up-to-date information with latest sightings from these two locations you might have. You can also send a private message or e-mail to me if you want. I will be in Florida during the second week of March.
You could take one day and drive over to the East coast and do both Viera Wetlands (Exit 191 of I-95) and MINWR (Exit 220 of I-95) One in the morning and the other in the afternoon. From Orlando it's about one hour+ via SR 520 ($1.50 toll) and I-95.
Viera has GBH in the nest building stages now and other usual suspects, Limpkins, Wood Storks and Egrets. Don't forget to chect the Click Ponds while at Viera.
I tried to get in touch with folks that live over in Orange County for some recent info but no luck. I do know that Gatorland is no longer doing the early entry for photographers so you will have to wait for their regular opening time (9:00 AM IIRC). Most tourists want to see the 'gators so you should have the boardwalk and rookery to yourself for a while.
Birds - Where to go in Florida?
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