One of the best places to see gopher tortoises in their natural habitat is Hidden Waters Preserve in Eustis.
Gopher Tortoise
Florida Wildlife
Red-Shouldered Hawk
We spotted this beautiful Red-Shouldered Hawk at Orlando Wetlands Park in Christmas. Orlando Wetlands is also one of the best places to view Florida Alligators. Highly recommended!
Demetree Park
A hidden gem located in the heart of a neighborhood just off the 408 and east of downtown Orlando, Demetree Park is a great spot for a short stroll among wildlife (we encountered white ibises, a great egret, great blue heron, green heron and many ducks during our quick visit).
Lake Lily Wildlife
Despite its tiny size, Lake Lily Park in Maitland features a nice variety of wildlife. Check it out!
Exploring Palm Island
I never get tired of exploring Palm Island Park in Mount Dora. There’s always something new to see here!
Birds of Lake Apopka
Along with plenty of alligators (see previous post), we viewed a variety of bird species at Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive over the weekend. Especially great blue herons, anhingas and great egrets!
Gators of Lake Apopka
As I’ve mentioned before, one of the most effortless ways to view alligators in their natural habitat in Central Florida is to take the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive. What are you waiting for?
Wood Storks
As we wandered around Starke Lake in Ocoee yesterday, we enjoyed the pleasure of viewing two wood storks, a rare and welcome sight indeed!
Alice’s Pond
The other day we dropped by Mead Botanical Garden in Winter Park just so we could wander around Alice’s Pond and look for wildlife. We saw two turtles and a black racer with a frog in its mouth. Not a bad way to spend a lazy Saturday afternoon!
Greenwood Urban Wetland
The Greenwood Urban Wetland in Orlando lies adjacent to the historic Greenwood Cemetery. Take a nice stroll around the scenic lake and look for various wildlife along the way. We saw a turtle and a pileated woodpecker during our brief journey. Seek it out!
Wandering Florida 