Taylor County’s diverse ecosystems make the Perry area a premier destination for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers. From coastal marshes to pine forests, the region offers exceptional opportunities to observe and photograph both year-round residents and seasonal migrants in their natural habitats.
Prime Bird watching Locations
Hickory Mound Impoundment
Located approximately 25 miles west of Perry in the Big Bend Wildlife Management Area, this wetland complex is a birdwatcher’s paradise and attracts:
- Waterfowl: Green-winged and blue-winged teals, northern pintails, buffleheads, hooded and red-breasted mergansers, and common goldeneyes
- Raptors: Bald eagles, ospreys, and Mississippi kites frequently patrol the skies
- Wading birds: Abundant throughout the year
The elevated dike system provides excellent viewing platforms and photography opportunities. Early mornings offer the best light for photographers and increased bird activity.
Adams Beach
This coastal area features a blend of marshlands and sandy flats that create ideal habitat for:
- Numerous seaside sparrows
- Elusive clapper rails
- Wilson’s plovers (seasonal)
- Various coastal species
The transition zones between different habitats make this location particularly rich in bird diversity. Bring a spotting scope for distant shorebirds.
Keaton Beach
This popular coastal destination offers excellent bird watching beyond its recreational appeal. The public park at the end of the beach road provides an ideal viewing area for:
- Diverse shorebirds
- Gulls and terns
- Occasional pelagic species (especially after storms)
The combination of open water, shoreline, and nearby vegetation creates multiple habitats within a small area.
Hagen’s Cove
Considered one of the premier shorebird locations on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Hagen’s Cove is accessible via marked signs on CR 361. Features include:
- An observation tower with panoramic views of pine islands, beaches, and mud flats
- Year-round shorebirds including sandpipers, dunlin, whimbrel, and plovers
- Wading birds such as reddish egrets and various herons
- Marbled godwits and other specialty species
The elevated observation platform makes this an ideal spot for photographers seeking landscape shots with birds in the foreground.
Steinhatchee River
Perfect for birdwatchers without specialized equipment, the Steinhatchee River offers close encounters with:
- Egrets and great blue herons along the banks
- Swallow-tailed kites (seasonal)
- Various woodland species in adjacent trees
- Kingfishers and osprey hunting along the water
The river provides opportunities for both land-based observation and viewing from boats or kayaks.
Photography Tips
- Morning light: Early mornings provide the best natural lighting for bird photography along the coast
- Equipment: While professional gear helps, even a good smartphone camera can capture memorable images at close-range locations like the Steinhatchee River
- Patience: Set up in promising locations and wait for birds to return to their regular activities
- Local knowledge: Consult with local birding enthusiasts about recent sightings
Seasonal Highlights
- Winter (December-February): Peak waterfowl season at Hickory Mound; numerous migratory species
- Spring (March-May): Migration season brings warblers and other songbirds; breeding plumage on display
- Summer (June-August): Resident species with young; swallow-tailed kites present
- Fall (September-November): Return of migratory birds; generally pleasant viewing conditions
Conservation and Etiquette
When bird watching in the Perry area, remember:
- Stay on designated trails and observation areas
- Keep a respectful distance from nesting sites
- Consider joining local conservation efforts
- Report rare sightings to help track population trends
Whether you’re a serious lister adding to your life list or a casual observer enjoying nature’s diversity, the varied habitats around Perry offer exceptional opportunities to connect with Florida’s remarkable bird life.
