Burrowing Owls and Monk Parakeets: A Morning Adventure in Cape Coral

 

November 8, 2025 – Adventures in SW Florida

This morning’s adventure started bright and early in Cape Coral, Florida. I set out with my camera gear and a mission: to capture two of the city’s most charismatic bird residents — the Burrowing Owl and the Monk Parakeet. My destination was Pelican Baseball Park, a place I’d heard about but never explored until now. I arrived a little after sunrise, around 7:00 a.m., with the sky still painted in soft golds and pinks — perfect light for photography and discovery.

First Encounter: The Burrowing Owls of Cape Coral

Cape Coral is famous for its Burrowing Owls, and Pelican Baseball Park did not disappoint. As I began walking the perimeter of the park, I quickly noticed the small white crosses that mark their underground homes. It didn’t take long before I spotted the first pair — two curious little heads peeking up from the sandy soil, blinking in the warm morning light.

Each owl had its own personality. Some stood proudly in front of their burrows, while others seemed shy, ducking back down only to pop up moments later. The early morning sun illuminated their soft feathers, bringing out every tiny detail. I must have filled my camera card with a dozen portraits of these adorable residents — each one cuter than the last.

There’s something magical about these little owls. They are Florida natives, perfectly adapted to life in open spaces like parks and empty lots. Unlike most owls, Burrowing Owls are active during the day, which makes them a favorite among birdwatchers and photographers alike. Watching them stretch, preen, and greet the morning felt like sharing a quiet, peaceful moment in nature’s hidden world.

The Colorful Call of the Monk Parakeets

As I was photographing the owls, I started hearing a chorus of excited squawks from across the park. Looking up, I spotted flashes of green darting through the air — the unmistakable Monk Parakeets. They moved in groups, chattering loudly as they flew from power lines to nearby trees.

Monk Parakeets are not native to Florida; they originally come from South America. But over the years, they have become naturalized residents of Cape Coral and other parts of the state. These bright green parrots are known for their social behavior and impressive stick nests, which they often build on utility poles or tall trees. While they may not be Florida’s original inhabitants, they’ve certainly made themselves at home.

Watching them in the wild was an absolute thrill. Their energy is contagious — one moment they’re preening each other, and the next they’re taking off in synchronized flight. I managed to get several good photos, but even without the perfect shot, just seeing them up close in their natural element made the morning unforgettable.

Unexpected Guests and Hidden Moments

Between the owls and the parakeets, there was plenty of other activity around the park. I spotted Blue Jays, always bold and vocal, and several small warblers flitting among the trees. Each corner of the park seemed alive with movement — a reminder that Florida’s urban parks are teeming with wildlife if you take the time to look closely.

The experience felt like a juxtaposition of native and naturalized residents — the grounded, watchful Burrowing Owls and the airborne, lively Monk Parakeets. Both species share the same space, yet each brings its own character and story to the landscape. It’s a perfect reflection of Florida itself: a blend of the wild and the adapted, the familiar and the unexpected.

A Morning to Remember

By the time I packed up my camera, the sun was higher in the sky, and the park was starting to wake up with morning joggers and baseball players arriving for practice. I left with a memory card full of photos and a heart full of appreciation for this corner of Cape Coral.

Every adventure is a reminder that nature thrives all around us, even in the most ordinary places. You just have to look — sometimes underfoot, sometimes in the treetops — and you’ll find something extraordinary waiting.

Have you ever had an unexpected wildlife encounter or a favorite spot for bird photography? I’d love to hear about your adventures in the comments below!

🐦 Bird Photography Tips: Best Settings for Stunning Shots

 

Bird photography is one of the most rewarding challenges in nature photography. Birds are fast, unpredictable, and often positioned in lighting that changes minute by minute. Whether perched in the soft glow of sunrise or darting through open sky, each moment is fleeting—and that’s what makes it exciting.

To get the best shots, it’s all about preparation. Having your camera ready for different lighting and motion situations means you’ll spend less time changing settings and more time capturing the beauty of your subject. Over time, I’ve developed three camera presets that allow me to quickly switch between early morning still shots, birds in flight, and brighter afternoon conditions.

Here’s how I set them up—and how you can adapt them to your own bird photography.

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1️⃣ Preset #1: Early Morning – Stationary Birds in Low Light

The early morning is one of the best times to photograph wildlife. The light is soft and golden, creating beautiful reflections and natural color tones. But it can also be dim, especially under tree cover or on foggy mornings.

For this, I keep my shutter speed around 1/250 sec—sometimes even slower if the subject is very still and the light is especially low. This slower shutter speed helps let in more light and keeps the ISO from rising too high.

My settings:

• Drive Mode: Single shot

• Focus Area: Flexible Spot (great for pinpointing focus on the eyes or fine details)

• Aperture: Wide open (to blur the background and isolate the subject)

• ISO Range: 100–3200

This setup works best for calm moments—like an egret standing in shallow water or an anhinga drying its wings. If your subject is completely still, you can even use a monopod or tripod to prevent camera shake at slower speeds.

💡 Tip: When shooting slower shutter speeds, take a few extra frames. Even slight motion from your hands or the subject can affect sharpness, and sometimes just one shot in a sequence will come out perfectly crisp.

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2️⃣ Preset #2: Birds in Flight – Fast Action Mode

Once the sun rises and the birds become active, it’s time to switch to fast action. Photographing birds in flight is one of the most exciting—and difficult—skills to master. Everything happens fast, and it’s easy to lose focus or clip wings.

For flight photography, I use a shutter speed around 1/2000 sec to freeze motion. Smaller, faster birds may even need 1/2500–1/3200 sec to stay sharp.

My settings:

• Shutter Speed: Around 1/2000 sec (or faster for small, quick flyers)

• Drive Mode: Burst Mode (highest speed)

• Focus Area: Wide (to help track unpredictable movement)

• Aperture: Wide open

• ISO Range: 100–3200

To keep your bird sharp in flight, move with it—pan smoothly while half-pressing the shutter to track focus. This helps your autofocus stay locked as the bird moves through the frame.

💡 Recommended Shutter Speeds by Bird Type:

• Slow flyers (herons, egrets): 1/1000 – 1/1600 sec

• Medium flyers (gulls, ducks): 1/1600 – 1/2000 sec

• Fast flyers (swallows, hawks, terns): 1/2500 – 1/3200 sec

Practice is key here. The more you learn how different birds take off, bank, and land, the better you’ll time your shots.

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3️⃣ Preset #3: Afternoon Light – Bright Conditions and Active Subjects

By afternoon, the light is strong and direct—great for freezing motion and capturing crisp detail. In these conditions, I use a middle-ground setup that allows flexibility for both still and active subjects.

My settings:

• Shutter Speed: Around 1/800 sec

• Drive Mode: Burst (medium speed)

• Focus Area: Flexible Spot

• Aperture: Wide open

• ISO Range: 100–3200

This preset is perfect for birds feeding, hopping from branch to branch, or interacting with each other. The light is good enough to maintain detail while keeping your ISO in a clean range for sharp, noise-free images.

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⚙️ Why Custom Presets Make a Difference

Wildlife doesn’t wait for you to adjust your settings. Having dedicated presets means you can instantly adapt to changing conditions. If a stationary bird suddenly takes flight, all it takes is a quick turn of the dial and you’re ready.

It’s a simple adjustment that can save precious seconds and increase your success rate dramatically.

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📸 Bonus Bird Photography Tips

• Always focus on the eyes: A sharp eye gives life and depth to the photo.

• Shoot in bursts, not sprays: Use short bursts to save battery and reduce time sorting images later.

• Anticipate behavior: Watch for cues like crouching, wing movement, or head turns before takeoff.

• Use natural framing: Trees, reeds, or reflections can add depth and tell a story.

• Stay low and quiet: A lower perspective often gives a more intimate, natural look.

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🪶 Final Thoughts

These presets have made it easier for me to photograph the diverse birdlife of Southwest Florida—from wading herons and spoonbills to fast-flying ospreys. The more you get out there, the better you’ll understand how light, behavior, and timing all work together.

Photography isn’t just about settings—it’s about connection and patience. Whether you’re photographing your first bird or your hundredth, keep experimenting and enjoy the process.

Each photo tells its own little story—and with practice, your camera will start to feel like an extension of your instincts.

A Rare Encounter: The Florida Scrub-Jay and the Acorn

 

  

There are moments in nature that feel like pure serendipity — when patience, timing, and a touch of luck all align. Last Saturday, I set out on a quiet mission in southwest Florida: to finally spot one of Florida’s most iconic and endangered birds — the Florida Scrub-Jay.

I had parked in a small, unassuming area that I’d read might host a few of these elusive blue beauties. The sun was warm, the air still, and the pine scrub shimmered in that golden Florida light that makes everything feel alive. I grabbed my camera and began walking the block, scanning every wire, branch, and bush for movement.

And then, there it was. A flash of blue on a telephone line caught my eye. I raised my lens, zoomed in, and my heart leapt — I had found one! The unmistakable soft blue feathers and grayish chest confirmed it. But the real excitement came moments later.

As I continued walking, one of these stunning birds swooped down and landed right in front of me, clutching an acorn in its beak. It paused, as if curious about me, and for a few perfect seconds, we shared that quiet connection that only wildlife encounters can bring. I lifted my camera and captured this photo — a Florida Scrub-Jay proudly holding its prize.

Seeing a Florida Scrub-Jay in the wild isn’t just a photo opportunity; it’s a reminder of Florida’s unique ecosystems and the importance of protecting them. These intelligent birds are found only here — nowhere else on Earth — making every sighting feel like a gift.

This encounter was one of those unforgettable moments that fuels my passion for exploring the wild corners of Southwest Florida. You never know what’s waiting around the next bend — sometimes, it’s a rare bird with an acorn, watching you just as closely as you’re watching it.

🦅 An Unexpected Hunter at Rotary Park

 

Saturday’s visit to Rotary Park Environmental Center turned into one of those unforgettable wildlife moments that remind me why I love nature photography. I was quietly focused on a small warbler fluttering through the bushes — a lively little bird I hadn’t yet identified — when, out of nowhere, movement caught my eye.

Out from my peripheral view, a juvenile Cooper’s Hawk glided in and landed right on a limb in front of me. It was so close I could see every feather, the soft barring on its chest, and the intense yellow of its eyes. Suddenly, I realized — I wasn’t the only one watching that warbler.

The hawk perched silently, studying the same bushes where the warbler had darted for cover. Minutes passed in tense stillness — both hunter and hunted hidden in plain sight. Then, breaking the quiet, the hawk let out a sharp, piercing scream before launching itself into the air and disappearing into the trees.

A few moments later, the warbler emerged from the bushes, unharmed but certainly startled — and I exhaled without realizing I’d been holding my breath. I managed to capture several good photos of the Cooper’s Hawk during those few incredible moments, a reminder of how raw and unpredictable the wild can be.

It’s encounters like this that make every early morning and long walk with the camera worth it — when nature suddenly pulls you into its own story.

📸 What about you? What’s the most exciting wildlife encounter you’ve ever had? Share your story in the comments — I’d love to hear about it!

🌴 Florida’s Originals: Exploring the Endemic Species of the Sunshine State

 

When most people think of Florida’s wildlife, they picture alligators gliding through cypress swamps or herons wading in the shallows. But beneath the surface of those familiar sights lives a quieter story — one of species found nowhere else on Earth. These are Florida’s endemic species, uniquely adapted to the subtropical climate, coastal habitats, and ancient geology that make this peninsula unlike any other place in North America.

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🐦 1. Florida Scrub-Jay – The Blue Jewel of the Scrublands

Meet the only bird species found exclusively in Florida. The Florida Scrub-Jay thrives in dry, sandy scrub habitats dominated by low-growing oaks. It’s incredibly social — living in family groups that cooperate to defend their territories.
Sadly, the same scrubland they depend on is one of the most threatened ecosystems in the state, making this curious, bold bird a living symbol of Florida’s fragile wild spaces.
📍 Best places to spot one: Oscar Scherer State Park, Merritt Island NWR, and Jonathan Dickinson State Park.

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🐍 2. Florida Pine Snake – The Hidden Hunter

This large, non-venomous snake spends much of its life underground, hunting rodents in gopher tortoise burrows. With its pale tan body and dark blotches, the Florida Pine Snake blends perfectly into sandy soils.
It’s rare to see one in the wild — not because it’s aggressive or dangerous, but because it prefers a life of quiet seclusion beneath the surface.

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🐢 3. Florida Red-Bellied Cooter – The Sunshine Swimmer

You might’ve seen this turtle basking on logs in freshwater ponds across the peninsula. The Florida Red-Bellied Cooter is often mistaken for other turtles, but its reddish plastron (belly) gives it away.
Uniquely, females sometimes nest in the mounds of alligator nests — a risky move that often works out, as mama gator keeps predators away from both her own eggs and the cooter’s.

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🐦 4. Everglades Snail Kite – A Specialist in Survival

This raptor is a true Everglades specialist. The Snail Kite feeds almost entirely on apple snails, using its sharply curved beak to pry them from their shells. Its population rises and falls with water levels, making it a barometer for the health of Florida’s wetlands.
Watching one glide over a marsh at sunrise is a moment that stays with you — graceful, purposeful, and perfectly adapted.

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🦎 5. Florida Sand Skink – The Subterranean Slider

Tiny, secretive, and nearly invisible, the Florida Sand Skink “swims” beneath the sand of central Florida’s ridges. Its limbs are so small they look vestigial, and its motion leaves S-shaped tracks across dunes.
It’s a living reminder of Florida’s ancient past, when this region was a chain of islands above a prehistoric sea.

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📸 Tips for Photographers

• Use patience and distance. Many endemic species are threatened; respect their space.

• Go early or late. Cooler temperatures make animals more active and light more dramatic.

• Document habitats. Capture not just the subject, but the ecosystem that sustains it.

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🌿 In Closing

Florida’s endemic species remind us that this state is more than beaches and palm trees — it’s an ecological crossroads, home to creatures shaped by millennia of isolation and adaptation. The next time you explore a scrub ridge, a freshwater pond, or the edge of the Everglades, remember: you might be standing among Florida’s true originals.

8 Essential Tools and Apps for Planning Wildlife Photography Adventures in Southwest Florida

 

Planning a day of wildlife photography in Southwest Florida can feel like part art, part detective work. The birds, trails, and light are always changing — and that’s exactly what makes it exciting.

I’ve found that a little digital help goes a long way. One of my favorite new tools, eBird.org, makes trip planning so much easier. It shows me local hotspots, recent bird sightings, and seasonal trends so I know what species to watch for before I even lace up my hiking boots.

But eBird is just the beginning. Here are eight other tools and apps I use (or recommend) to help plan the perfect day of exploring, photographing, and connecting with nature across Southwest Florida.

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🐦 1. Merlin Bird ID

Created by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Merlin Bird ID helps you identify birds by photo, sound, or description. You can even download “bird packs” for Florida, so it works offline — perfect for quiet mornings at CREW or Six Mile Cypress Slough.

💡 Pro tip: Record calls in the field. Merlin can often recognize them instantly.

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📗 2. Audubon Bird Guide App

A great all-around field guide for identifying species. It includes images, calls, and range maps, plus connects directly with eBird for recent sightings nearby. A must-have companion for any birder or photographer.

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📍 3. BirdsEye Bird Finding App

This app pairs beautifully with eBird. It shows recent bird sightings, hotspots, and even alerts for rare birds in your area. I love using it to decide which preserve might be most active that week — especially during migration.

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🌱 4. iNaturalist (Seek)

Not everything that catches my eye has feathers. iNaturalist helps identify plants, insects, reptiles, and just about anything else in nature. It’s community-powered, so you’ll learn from naturalists and photographers all over Florida.

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🪶 5. BirdLasser

If you love logging sightings, BirdLasser makes it quick and flexible. You can export your lists to eBird and track your own “life list” right from your phone. It’s a lighter option for those who like simple, clean data entry.

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🌎 6. Birda

A social-style birding app that adds a fun twist — you can track your sightings, join challenges, and see what’s being spotted nearby. It’s great for motivation and connecting with other local birders.

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🌅 7. PhotoPills / The Photographer’s Ephemeris / Planit!

These apps aren’t for birding, but they’re indispensable for photographers.

• PhotoPills helps you plan lighting, sun paths, and even star positions.

• The Photographer’s Ephemeris (TPE) lets you visualize how sunlight and shadows move over a landscape.

• Planit! simulates your exact camera position and angle — great for sunrise shots at the J.N. “Ding” Darling drive or sunset silhouettes at Bunche Beach.

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🗺️ 8. Gaia GPS

A must-have for trail lovers. It lets you map routes, download offline maps, and mark waypoints. It’s especially useful when exploring more remote areas like Hickey Creek Mitigation Park or the north end of Six Mile Cypress Slough.

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🌿 How I Use These Tools Together

When I’m planning an outing, here’s my workflow:

1. Check eBird for recent sightings at local hotspots.

2. Use Merlin or Audubon to study target species — calls, behavior, and habitats.

3. Cross-check iNaturalist for non-bird subjects like butterflies, turtles, or native plants.

4. Plan lighting with PhotoPills or The Photographer’s Ephemeris.

It sounds like a lot, but once you get the rhythm, these tools help you spend less time guessing and more time shooting.

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☀️ Final Thoughts

Southwest Florida is full of life — but knowing when and where to look makes all the difference. These tools don’t replace your instincts, they sharpen them.

Whether you’re chasing Ospreys along the coast or exploring hidden trails deep in the sloughs, technology can be your quiet guide to better photos, safer hikes, and unforgettable moments.

 

🏕️ Essential Adventure Gear for Exploring Southwest Florida’s Wild Side

 

There’s something awe inspiring about setting out into the wetlands, trails, and coastal mangroves of Southwest Florida — camera in hand, ready for the unexpected.
Over the years, I’ve learned that what you bring with you can make the difference between a smooth adventure and a sweaty scramble back to the car.

Here’s what’s always in my pack when I head out on a photo mission or spontaneous hike.

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📸 My Go-To Camera Setup

For wildlife photography, my Sony a6700 is the heart of every adventure. It’s lightweight but powerful, and when paired with a 100–400mm lens, I can capture everything from a tiny warbler to a soaring eagle without disturbing their space.

💡 Tip: If you’re new to nature photography, start with a zoom lens that gives you range without sacrificing sharpness — you’ll thank yourself the first time a bird lands just out of reach.

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🥾 Comfortable Hiking Shoes

Florida trails can go from dry sand to muddy swamp in a matter of minutes, so good hiking shoes are non-negotiable. Look for something with breathable mesh and grip for wet terrain.
Your feet will thank you after a few miles of exploring places like Six Mile Cypress Slough or Hickey Creek Mitigation Park.

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🎒 The Essentials in My Backpack

I try to keep it light — too much gear can take the focus off relaxing and enjoying the moment.
Here’s what always makes the cut:

• 🧴 Water bottle: Florida humidity means hydration is survival.

• 🌧️ Rain poncho & umbrella: Storms can sneak up fast — don’t let your gear get soaked.

• 🔋 Solar power bank: Great for long days when you’re shooting video or using GPS.

• 🍖 Beef jerky: Simple, salty, and perfect for refueling mid-trail.

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🕶️ Sun Protection That Works

Southwest Florida sun doesn’t play around. I always wear a lightweight, long-sleeve summer hoodie — it keeps me cool and blocks UV rays. Add a wide-brim sun hat, and you’re ready for the brightest trails and open marshes.

🦋 Pro tip: Light colors not only keep you cool, but they also attract fewer mosquitoes.

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🔭 Bonus Gear: Binoculars

Even with a telephoto lens, I love bringing a small pair of binoculars. Sometimes it’s nice to just watch without shooting — especially when a pair of Roseate Spoonbills or an Osprey glides by.

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🌿 Keep It Simple, Stay Present

I’ve found that the best adventures happen when I’m not weighed down by gear. The less you carry, the more you notice — the sound of a Red-shouldered Hawk echoing through the trees, the shimmer of a dragonfly’s wings, or the quiet stillness before a gator surfaces.

In the end, the goal isn’t just the perfect photo — it’s to experience the wild heart of Southwest Florida.

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🌴 What’s in Your Adventure Pack?

Do you have a must-have item that makes your outdoor adventures smoother? Drop it in the comments below — I’d love to hear what keeps you prepared on the trail.

Part 3 - Even More Hidden Wildlife Trails in Southwest Florida: From Hickey Creek to Bowditch Point

Southwest Florida never runs out of surprises. Beyond the well-known preserves and popular boardwalks lie wild spaces where nature still whispers, water glistens in the morning sun, and wildlife moves undisturbed. These are the quiet corners that reward curiosity — where patient photographers, birdwatchers, and explorers discover Florida’s true wild spirit.

If you’ve already explored the trails from our first Hidden Wildlife Gems post, here are even more off-the-beaten-path adventures waiting to be uncovered.

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🦎 Hickey Creek Mitigation Park – Alva

Hidden in the peaceful town of Alva, Hickey Creek offers a slice of old Florida filled with oak hammocks, pine flatwoods, and freshwater creeks. It’s a great spot to find gopher tortoises, Eastern bluebirds, and deer roaming quietly through the shade. The trails are wide and serene — perfect for a morning hike or slow wildlife walk with your camera ready.

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🐦 Six Mile Cypress North – Fort Myers

While the boardwalk at Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve gets the attention, the northern section is one of Lee County’s best-kept secrets. This quieter trail system winds through oak and cypress, with fewer crowds and plenty of Pileated Woodpeckers, herons, and butterflies. When the sunlight filters through the canopy, it’s a photographer’s dream.

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🐊 Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve – Cape Coral

Where the Caloosahatchee River meets the mangroves, you’ll find Four Mile Cove — a mix of winding boardwalks and shaded kayak trails. White Ibis, osprey, and fiddler crabs make frequent appearances along the tidal flats. It’s a beautiful escape just minutes from downtown Cape Coral, especially at sunrise when the water glows golden.

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🌴 Bowditch Point Park – Fort Myers Beach

At the northern tip of Fort Myers Beach, Bowditch Point offers a surprising blend of dunes, mangroves, and open shoreline. Pelicans, ibis, and even iguanas bask in the morning sun along the seawalls. Early risers will find some of the most colorful skies and reflective waters — ideal for bird and beach photography alike.

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🌿 Koreshan Nature Trail – Estero

A walk through the Koreshan Nature Trail feels like stepping back in time. Along the Estero River, towering bamboo, stately live oaks, and relics of a historic settlement create a setting unlike any other. It’s home to turtles, snakes, and Barred Owls, offering both a sense of history and a living habitat for local wildlife.

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🚲 John Yarbrough Linear Park Trail – Fort Myers

Stretching over six miles through the heart of Fort Myers, this linear park follows a quiet canal lined with native vegetation. Look for otters, ducks, and anhingas along the waterway. It’s paved, peaceful, and perfect for walking or biking with a camera in hand — especially around sunrise and sunset.

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🦋 Prairie Pines Preserve – North Fort Myers

With wide trails that weave through pine flatwoods and scrub habitats, Prairie Pines is a haven for hawks, butterflies, and the occasional bobcat sighting. The open spaces and long views make it a fantastic location for wildlife photography or a casual afternoon hike.

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🌾 Caloosahatchee Creeks Preserve North – North Fort Myers

Boardwalks, oak hammocks, and wetland overlooks make this preserve a favorite for nature photographers. Keep an eye out for owls, wood storks, and turtles basking on the logs. It’s a peaceful place to slow down and connect with the quiet rhythms of the river.

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🌴 Closing Thoughts

Every one of these trails tells its own story — of mangrove roots, freshwater creeks, quiet pinewoods, and the animals that call them home. Whether you explore them one by one or plan a weekend adventure across several, these hidden places remind us that Southwest Florida still holds wild magic waiting to be discovered.

Grab your camera, lace up your hiking shoes, and let curiosity guide the way.

 

💚 Plan Your Next Adventure

If this inspired you, check out Part One:

👉 Hidden Wildlife Gems of Southwest Florida 

and Part Two: 

 👉 Hidden Wildlife Gems of Southwest Florida

Follow Adventures in Southwest Florida for daily nature stories, photo tips, and MicroNatDocs that bring the wild to life — one minute at a time.

📸 Instagram: @AdventuresSWFlorida

🌴 Explore more: https://adventuresswflorida.blogspot.com

🚶🏼‍♂️ Connect on your favorite Social Platforms

 

🌿 Part 2 - More Hidden Wildlife Gems of Southwest Florida: Secret Trails and Coastal Havens

 

Southwest Florida’s wild beauty doesn’t stop at the beaches — it hides in mangroves, creeks, and forgotten trails just off the beaten path. If you’ve already explored the well-known preserves, it’s time to discover more of the region’s quiet, untamed corners.

These lesser-known destinations are perfect for photographers, birdwatchers, and anyone who wants to experience wild Florida up close — without the crowds.

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🌿 1. Powell Creek Preserve – A Hidden Refuge in North Fort Myers

Location: North Fort Myers, FL
Powell Creek Preserve may be small, but it’s rich in wildlife. The shaded trails follow a winding creek lined with palms and ferns where Little Blue Herons, Anhingas, and even river otters make appearances. It’s an easy loop that delivers surprising biodiversity just minutes from the city.

Photography Tip: Visit after rainfall — the reflections in the creek and light filtering through the canopy make for beautiful compositions.

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🐦 2. Rotary Park Environmental Center – Cape Coral’s Wild Heart

Location: Cape Coral, FL
Right in the middle of Cape Coral lies Rotary Park, an unexpected natural retreat. The walking paths weave through salt flats and mangrove edges, where Ospreys, Great Egrets, and Roseate Spoonbills often feed.
Climb the observation tower for panoramic views, or stop by the Butterfly House, home to native favorites like Gulf Fritillaries and Zebra Longwings.

Pro Tip: Late afternoon brings soft golden light and frequent osprey activity — perfect for photographers.

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🐢 3. Bailey Tract – Sanibel Island’s Quiet Wild Side

Location: Sanibel Island, FL
Hidden within the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge system, the Bailey Tract is a serene network of gravel trails winding through freshwater marshes and wetlands.
Here, you’ll find Common Gallinules, Mottled Ducks, Tricolored Herons, and the occasional Marsh Rabbit darting between reeds. It’s the kind of place where you can hear the wind through the grasses and the rhythmic calls of wading birds all around you.

Best Time to Visit: Early morning for active birdlife and soft light.

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🦩 4. J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Drive – Sanibel’s Living Sanctuary

Location: Sanibel Island, FL
If you only visit the beaches of Sanibel, you’re missing one of Florida’s most remarkable wildlife experiences — the Wildlife Drive at J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
This 4-mile scenic drive winds through mangrove estuaries and tidal flats teeming with life. You’ll see Osprey, Roseate Spoonbills, White Pelicans, Reddish Egrets, and even alligators along the banks.
You can drive, bike, or walk it — and each turn offers new surprises as tides and seasons change the landscape daily.

Photography Tip: Visit during low tide for feeding shorebirds and mirrored water reflections.

Why It’s Special: It’s accessible yet wild — a front-row seat to Southwest Florida’s coastal ecosystem in motion.

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🦋 5. Galt Preserve – Pine Island’s Natural Sanctuary

Location: St. James City, FL
Galt Preserve offers a mix of pine flatwoods, wetlands, and coastal hammocks that make it a peaceful destination for wildlife watchers.
Expect Great Egrets, Eastern Cottontails, and a flutter of butterflies around the ponds. The observation platform overlooking the lake provides a tranquil spot for photography or reflection.

Insider Tip: Arrive mid-morning when sunlight highlights the water lilies and shoreline activity.

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🌴 6. Caloosahatchee Creeks Preserve – Where River Meets Wilderness

Location: North Fort Myers, FL
Caloosahatchee Creeks Preserve showcases Florida’s riverine wilderness with a mix of boardwalks, cypress stands, and open trails.
Here, Pileated Woodpeckers, Red-shouldered Hawks, and turtles thrive among the old-growth trees. The East Preserve section in particular offers elevated paths perfect for spotting wildlife during the wetter months.

Pro Tip: Bring bug spray and patience — this is real Florida, unfiltered.

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🌅 Why These Hidden Spots Matter

These tucked-away preserves and trails prove that Florida’s wild heart still beats strongly — you just need to know where to look.
Exploring places like Powell Creek, Rotary Park, Bailey Tract, and Ding Darling’s Wildlife Drive not only rewards you with unforgettable encounters but also supports conservation by spreading awareness and respect for these habitats.

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💚 Plan Your Next Adventure

If this inspired you, check out Part One:

👉 Part 1 - Hidden Wildlife Gems of Southwest Florida 

 Follow Adventures in Southwest Florida for daily nature stories, photo tips, and MicroNatDocs that bring the wild to life — one minute at a time.

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Part 1 - Hidden Wildlife Gems of Southwest Florida: Secret Trails, Wetlands & Birding Spots to Explore

When most people think of Southwest Florida, they picture white-sand beaches, palm trees, and sunsets. But tucked between the coastlines and the cypress swamps lies another world — one full of color, movement, and wild wonder.
If you’re craving a more authentic adventure, far from the tourist trails, this guide will reveal some of the best hidden wildlife spots in Southwest Florida — perfect for photographers, birdwatchers, and anyone who wants to reconnect with nature.

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🌿 1. Lakes Park – Fort Myers’ Hidden Oasis

Location: Fort Myers, FL
While Lakes Park may seem like a family recreation area at first glance, it’s actually a wildlife paradise in disguise.
Early mornings here are alive with Ospreys, Great Blue Herons, Anhingas, and Tricolored Herons diving through the misty air. Take the boardwalk trails along the back wetlands — you’ll often find baby Peninsula Cooters, Ibis in shallow waters.

Photography Tip: Visit just after sunrise for perfect golden light and calm reflections on the lake.

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🐦 2. Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve – The Living Wetland

Location: Fort Myers, FL
This shaded boardwalk winds through nearly 3,500 acres of pristine wetlands. The Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve is one of the best-kept secrets for wildlife lovers in Florida.
Expect to encounter turtles sunning on logs, Barred Owls hooting in the canopy, and in the cooler months, even alligators warming themselves along the banks and possibly Roseate Spoonbills.

Wildlife Highlight: Keep your ears open — the distinctive “squeak toy” call of the Limpkin often echoes through the trees.

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🐊 3. Harns Marsh – A Photographer’s Dream

Location: Lehigh Acres, FL
Off the beaten path and teeming with life, Harns Marsh is one of those hidden gems you’ll want to visit again and again. The open wetlands attract Snail Kites, Sandhill Cranes, and Wood Storks — making it a must-see for bird photographers.
The marsh changes with the seasons, offering everything from glassy reflections in the wet months to endless shorebird activity in the dry season.

Pro Tip: Bring a long lens and patience — the best shots come to those who wait.

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🦢 4. CREW Bird Rookery Swamp Trail – A Walk Through Wild Serenity

Location: Naples, FL
Tucked away on the edge of the Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed, the CREW Bird Rookery Swamp Trail is a true hidden wildlife treasure. This 12-mile trail system combines crushed-shell paths and boardwalk sections that wind through ancient cypress forests and open wetlands.
Here, you might encounter Great Egrets, Limpkins, Black-crowned Night Herons, and Pileated Woodpeckers echoing through the swamp. On quieter days, even alligators and otters make appearances along the trail’s edge.

Photography Tip: The misty morning light filtering through the cypress canopy creates a cinematic backdrop for bird and landscape shots alike.

Why Visit: It’s peaceful, rich in biodiversity, and offers that sense of true wilderness — all just minutes from Naples and Bonita Springs.

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🐢 5. Bunche Beach Preserve – The Coastal Wild Side

Location: Near Sanibel Causeway
Tucked away between mangroves and tidal flats, Bunche Beach is one of the most rewarding spots for coastal wildlife photography.
Here, Willets, Ruddy Turnstones, Oystercatchers, and Great Egrets patrol the shoreline. During low tide, the mudflats turn into a buffet for crabs, herons, and even the occasional Reddish Egret performing its famous “dancing” hunt.

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or near sunset, when tidal birds feed and the light turns the entire beach into a pink-gold glow.

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🐾 6. Babcock Webb Wildlife Management Area – Wild Florida Preserved

Location: Punta Gorda, FL
Step into true “Old Florida” at Fred C. Babcock–Cecil M. Webb WMA, a vast landscape of pine flatwoods, prairies, and freshwater marshes.
It’s one of the few places you might spot the Florida Scrub Jay, Eastern Meadowlark, Gopher Tortoise, and even the rare Bald Eagle nesting overhead.

Adventure Tip: Bring binoculars and water — this area is wild and remote. It’s perfect for hikers, nature photographers, and those craving solitude in nature.

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🌅 Finding Florida’s Hidden Wild

Each of these places reveals a different side of Southwest Florida’s natural beauty — from the calm wetlands of Fort Myers to the ancient cypress swamps of Naples.
Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife photographer or simply someone who loves exploring nature, you’ll find that these hidden gems remind you why Southwest Florida truly is where the wild still thrives.

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💚 Plan Your Adventure

If you love discovering wild places like these, check out more stories, photos, and MicroNatDocs on the Adventures in Southwest Florida blog and social — where every post takes you deeper into the untamed beauty of the Sunshine State.

 What is a MicroNatDoc?: 

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