Micco Scrub Sanctuary

The high-quality flatwoods and scrub at this sanctuary are home to Florida Scrub-Jays, Great Horned Owls, Hairy Woodpeckers and Gopher Tortoises. The 3-mile, red loop trail has the best birding (but little shade), while the 1.5-mile, white trail loop offers some shade and mostly pine-dependent species such as Brown-headed Nuthatch, Eastern Towhee and Bachman’s Sparrow. Depression marshes and bay swamps dot the eastern and northern portions of the sanctuary, providing feeding areas for Green-winged Teal, Northern Shovelers and Wood Ducks, as well as Yellow-crowned Night-Herons, Wood Storks and Snowy Egrets. Be alert for birds of prey such as American Kestrels, Sharp-shinned Hawks and Northern Harriers. Look for Yellow-throated Warblers, Chuck-will’s-widows, and Indigo Buntings in summer, and Wild Turkeys year-round. A few Red-cockaded Woodpeckers have been spotted feeding on the south side of the sanctuary. Seasonal migrants such as Louisiana Waterthrush, Blackpoll Warbler and Painted Bunting have been known to visit the small patches of oak hammock in spring and fall. Following heavy rains, portions of trails may flood at times (be prepared). The entrance kiosk has trail maps; trails are well-marked. Bring plenty of water and sun protection.