Erna Nixon Park

A stop at this county park may give your day list a big boost. Each spring and fall, migratory songbirds rest and refuel in the hardwood/sabal palm hammocks, flatwoods and freshwater swamp. Mornings are an ideal time to wander the 0.4-mile elevated boardwalk to search for Gray Catbirds, Red-eyed Vireos, Ovenbirds, American Redstarts and Summer Tanagers. Winter brings Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers, Blue-headed Vireos and Eastern Phoebes; Great Horned Owls are possible year-round here. Expect to find common residents such as Red-shouldered Hawk, Downy Woodpecker and Eastern Towhee. Gopher Tortoises and Indigo Snakes occur here but count yourself fortunate if you encounter the latter. The park’s educational facilities are excellent, the nature center offers great programs. An in-depth, interpretive, native plant trail will teach you more about the habitats upon which Florida’s birds and butterflies depend. Guided hikes are offered on weekends at 2 PM, and at other times by appointment. Call ahead for more details.