If you're a bird lover and active birdwatcher scouting locations for a retirement or second home in a 55+ community, put Central Florida at the top of your shortlist. Florida is home to 516 native and established exotic bird species, according to the current list maintained by the Florida Ornithological Society (see the full list here).
From waterfowl and wading birds to songbirds to hawks, vultures, and majestic bald eagles, there's an astounding variety of bird life in Central Florida. Plus we have great weather year-round and extensive networks of nature trails, wildlife preserves, and state parks to see them in.
Below is just a small sampling of prime birdwatching opportunities in Central Florida. Any active-adult development in the area puts you close to plenty of places to spot a great variety of amazing avian life.
The Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail
The GFBWT, a program of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, is one of the state's natural treasures. This 2,000-mile long trail connects 515 birdwatching and wildlife viewing stations across the state. Find more 180 trail locations in East Central and Eastern Florida here, and another 120 in West Central and Western Florida here. Another fantastic feature on the GFBWT website is its list of 40 highly sought-after Florida bird species with links to information about them and the best places to see them.
A Few Central Florida Birdwatching Hotspots
All across Central Florida, you'll find resort-style active-adult communities surrounded by thriving Florida wilderness and wildlife. The area's many undeveloped expanses, freshwater lakes, springs, and marsh and wetland habitats mean many exciting viewing opportunities for birding enthusiasts.
Emerald Marsh Conservation Area, Lake County
With more than 1,000 lakes and other diverse habitats, Lake County is home to about 200 species of birds. This conservation area is a hidden gem with walking and driving trails that put you right in the middle of a thriving Central Florida wetland habitat, making it a treasured spot for local birders.
Joe Overstreet Road and Landing, Osceola County
Head here on your own or with one of the many organized birding tours and you're in the heart of the area with the highest concentration of nesting bald eagles in the 48 contiguous states. Various cranes, egrets, herons, vultures, and crested caracaras are also abundant here. Visit nearby Lake Kissimmee State Park for more birdwatching, too.
Lake Hollingsworth, Polk County
The three miles of paved path around this lake in the city of Lakeland is a beautifully scenic place to stroll and spot a variety of winged wildlife. The path also carries you past a number of buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright on the campus of Florida Southern College (which boasts the largest single-site collection of buildings designed by the famed architect).
Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge, Volusia County
This area in De Leon Springs became a dedicated migratory bird refuge in 1964. About 200 bird species can be spotted on the more than 19,500-acre refuge, including 21 species of duck in the fall and winter. Nearby De Leon Springs State Park is another point of interest for birders as well.
Orlando Wetlands Park, Orange County
Since being established in 1987, this park, maintained by the City of Orlando, has been a big draw for birdwatchers. It's an especially good locale if you're interested in waterfowl and wading birds, but with more than 150 avian species found here, there's lots more to see.
Central Florida Is for Birders!
Birdwatching is a great way to stay physically active, mentally stimulated, and thoroughly de-stressed in the 55+ years. Enjoy the natural scenery, stunning and diverse bird population and other wildlife, and notable lack of cold weather in Central Florida any time of year. A retirement or vacation home in one of the area's industry-leading, resort-style active-adult communities is the perfect base from which to take advantage of the many amazing birding opportunities in the heart of The Sunshine State.
