Month: September 2018

Gulf Fritillary Butterfly, West Orange Trail

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“The Gulf fritillary, Agraulis vanillae (Linnaeus), is a brightly colored butterfly common across extreme southern portions of the United States. At home in most open, sunny habitats, it frequents roadsides, disturbed sites, fields, open woodlands, pastures, yards, and parks. It is a regular in most butterfly gardens, including those in more urban settings.” – University of Florida Entomology & Nematology Department

Hike #10: Gemini Springs Park, DeBary

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Hike #10, 52 Hike Challenge: Gemini Springs Park, DeBary. We had a nice stroll around 210-acre Gemini Springs Park this morning. The springs are actually closed to swimming due to high bacteria levels (but that makes the park all that more peaceful for those of us who just want to wander around and explore!). The park features a small campsite, fishing dock and playground, as well as several nature trails. Located at 37 Dirksen Drive (off U.S. 17/92), Gemini Springs Park is open daily from sunrise to sunset; admission is free. Wildlife sightings: American White Ibis (No. 5 on Birding Life List), Bobcat, Red-Shouldered Hawk (No. 6). Distance: 1.5 miles.

Hike #9: Econ River Wilderness Area

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Hike #9, 52 Hike Challenge: Econ River Wilderness Area. Surrounded by bland subdivisions on all sides in Oviedo (3795 Old Lockwood Road), the 240-acre Econ River Wilderness Area is a welcome oasis! I have to admit I got lost a few times (make sure to pick up a trail map at the entrance!) and some of the trail was flooded, but I eventually made it to the river. A very scenic and relaxing hike! Distance: 2.7 miles.

Frenchy’s Outpost Bar & Grill

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An “Open-Air Key West Style Restaurant,” Frenchy’s Outpost Bar & Grill lies just about 2 miles east of Honeymoon Island State Park, making it the ideal spot to grab some lunch and an ice-cold drink after a morning at the beach! I recommend the Caribbean Jerk Chicken Sandwich and the “Fresh Catch” Pretzel (see above). We were entertained by Glenn & Steel Drums during our meal. We’ll definitely be back!

Honeymoon Island State Park

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Ideally located just west of Dunedin and north of Clearwater Beach (take U.S. 19 to S.R. 586 and travel west for five miles), Honeymoon Island State Park features 4 miles of white-sand beach, a pet beach area, concessions, picnic areas, playground and two nature trails: Osprey Trail and Pelican Cove Trail. In addition, a 20-minute ferry ride (fee) takes you over to Caladesi Island State Park.

Hike #8: Osprey Trail & Beach Walk, Honeymoon Island

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Hike #8, 52 Hike Challenge: Osprey Trail and Beach Walk, Honeymoon Island State Park. We walked along the Osprey Trail until we came upon an impassable flooded area. However, during our brief hike, we spotted an osprey soaring overhead, as well as two osprey nests. Did not see any gopher tortoises or eastern diamondback rattlesnakes, both of which make the pine flatwoods portion of the island their home. We will return another time to finish this trail. I also walked along the beach, which was very scenic. I spotted many shorebirds. Distance: 3 miles.