Lyonia Preserve

Thanks to exemplary habitat management and restoration, the Lyonia Preserve north of Deltona supports numerous families of Florida Scrub-Jays along with other rare, scrub-dependent flora and fauna. If you hike the trails behind the library before 10 AM, and are patient and observant, you have an excellent chance to see this Florida specialty. In addition to jays, this property hosts other scrub and flatwoods species like Northern Bobwhite, Common Ground-Doves, White-eyed Vireos, Eastern Towhees and Common Nighthawks. Listen for Whip-poor-wills calling in winter and Blue Grosbeaks singing in spring/summer. The pinelands on the north side of the property are home to Red-headed Woodpeckers; a seasonal wetland at the center harbors wading birds and ducks. The 4,000-square-foot Lyonia Environmental Center (part of the renovated Deltona Library complex), has classrooms, exhibits and more. Educational programs are available to groups; call for details.