I will be heading down to Orlando soon for Photoshop World 2011. I plan on going early and taking advantage of the time to do some bird photography. While I have visited several locations on the west coast of FLorida, I have not visited many locations on the east coast.
In doing some research, I think I have narrowed down my potential locations to 3 areas. 1) Viera Wetlands, 2) Merritt Island NWR and 3) St. Augustine Alligator Farm. Which of these locations do my Florida friends and readers recommend? If not these are there other recommendations you have? If so email me or comment below.
Don’t miss the gull fly-in at Daytona Beach Shores. There’s a tiny lake in a neighborhood in Mims next to I-95, accessible from Carpenter road. There are over 100 Black-bellied Whistling Ducks there.
Thanks Linda, I will check it out.
Viera & Merritt island are both great however the lack of water this year has greatly reduced the amount of migratory birds (especially ducks) at Merritt island. Since you are in Orlando, plan going to the end of Joe Overstreet Road (lake Kissimmee) and in stead of the gator farm in St. Augustine (a long drive), I would go to Gatorland instead. A boat tour of Lake Toho would also be good for Snail Kites. Enjoy your trip!
Hi Scott, thanks for the suggestions. I had ruled out Gatorland because they stopped allowing photographers to enter early and leave late. I also heard that they are building a zip line attraction over the rookery which has made the birds a little skittish. I will check out your other suggestions and thanks for reading. Great images on your site by the way.