Wildlife

For years we have been going to the Florida east coast in late Feb-early March. This year we want to go to the west coast and would like some suggestions and recommendations for locales. Corkscrew Swamp?? Ding Darling Nat Wildlife Refuge?? Or???

Hello Terry

I personally have not found corkscrew swamp to be very productive. Also, since the hurricane went through Ding Darling, I've found that pretty hit or miss and mostly miss. If you do go to Ding, only go at a low tide at the time when you are allowed to enter (7am unless something has changed). For example, a 7 to 8 am low tide would be best.

Where I have had good luck is Fort Desoto and the Venice Rookery. Fort Desoto again around low tide.

I would avoid Fort Desoto on weekends---too many people and horrible traffic--especially don't try an afternoon low tide on weekends..

Also the beach around Venice can be great for pelicans.

Roger