Wings Over Paradise: A Serious Birding Itinerary

Southwest Florida is a critical stopover on the Atlantic Flyway. We have species here you won't see anywhere else in the country. Binoculars up!

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The "Big Four" Locations

1. Eagle Lakes Community Park

Don't let the "community park" name fool you. It’s arguably the best spot in soaring season.

• Look For: Snail Kites (endangered), Limpkins, and yes, Bald Eagles nesting right above the soccer fields.

2. Tigertail Beach (Marco Island)

A globally important shorebird area.

• Look For: Red Knots, Piping Plovers, Black Skimmers, and the "Great Florida Birding Trail" signage.

3. Cape Romano (By Boat)

Accessible only by water.

• Look For: Magnificent Frigatebirds soaring high (they look like pterodactyls) and massive flocks of White Pelicans in winter.

4. Brian Piccolo Park (Ft. Lauderdale day trip)

Strictly for the Burrowing Owls. These tiny owls live in holes in the ground (on the baseball fields, believe it or not). It’s worth the drive across Alligator Alley.