C24. Charlotte Flatwoods Environmental Park
SiteID: S24
Region: South
County: Charlotte
Nearest City: Punta Gorda
Phone Number: 941-625-7529
Website: C24. Charlotte Flatwoods Environmental Park
Amenities: Birding by foot/hiking, Birding by bicycle, Best time of day: Both morning and evening, Recommended length of visit: quick stop
Habitats: Freshwater Marsh/Wetlands, Pines, Lake/Pond/Impoundment
Description:
Adjacent to the much larger Babcock/Webb WMA, this site is also dominated by pine flatwoods and can offer a similar experience on a much smaller scale. Trails around the perimeter through the flatwoods offer sparrows and warblers, vireos and flycatchers. Follow the main trail straight in from the gate and you will find yourself on a raised spoil pile overlooking a flooded borrow pit, a surprisingly pleasant feature which contains Belted Kingfishers, waders such as Wood Stork and White Ibis, and a small community of dabbling ducks during winter.
Directions: From intersection of US 41, SR 768 (Jones Loop Rd.), and CR 765 (Burnt Store Rd.) south of Punta Gorda, drive 7.4 mi. south on US 41 to the entrance on the right (W).
Open all year, dawn to dusk.
