There is one bright spot to the frigid cold that has engulfed Central Florida during the winter of 2026. Hundreds of manatees can be viewed at Blue Spring State Park in Orange City!
Blue Spring Manatees
Florida Wildlife
Old Friends
Just an osprey hanging out with a black vulture while a turkey vulture flies overhead.
Red-Shouldered Hawk
I saw this Red-Shouldered Hawk chilling out on a fence as I was leaving Black Bear Wilderness Area. It was a real treat!
Tavares Ecological Preserve
Looking to get outside and effortlessly see some wildlife in Tavares? Check out Tavares Ecological Preserve, which is located just down the street from the courthouse (and adjacent to the county jail!). During my first visit, I saw an alligator, turtle, ospreys, moorhen, white ibis and great blue heron. Don’t miss it!
Gopher Tortoise
One of the best places to see gopher tortoises in their natural habitat is Hidden Waters Preserve in Eustis.
Foggy Morning
I took a foggy morning stroll at Palm Island Park in Mount Dora yesterday and saw quite a bit of wildlife. A great way to start the day!
Exploring Palm Island
I never get tired of exploring Palm Island Park in Mount Dora. There’s always something new to see here!
Return to Orlando Wetlands
This morning I returned to Orlando Wetlands Park in Christmas for the first time this year. It was sweltering hot and I saw a lot of birds, but only one gator. However, it was good to be back there! One of my favorite spots to view wildlife in Central Florida.
Palm Island Revisited
Palm Island Park and adjacent Grantham Pointe in Mount Dora never fail when it comes to viewing Florida wildlife in its natural habitat. If you’ve never been there, what are you waiting for?
Venetian Gardens
Seeking some solitude for reflection? Head out to Venetian Gardens in Leesburg! This unique city park features seven small islands connected by bridges. It’s full of wildlife and scenic landscaping. We saw the purple gallinule above just wandering across one of the bridges. The Venetian Gardens overlook Lake Harris (you can even catch a glimpse of tiny Monkey Island in the distance). Check it out!
Wandering Florida 