Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

This park is the first dry land that many migrants see on their northward journey, and the last opportunity to fuel up when heading south. Thus, the natural habitat here can host large concentrations of birds when weather patterns are favorable for migration. Over 35 species of wood-warbler have been recorded in the park and on a good day it’s not unusual to see 20+ species. Warblers aren’t the only migrants that seek refuge at the park; Rose-beasted Grosbeaks, Painted Buntings, Yellow-billed Cuckoos, Red-eyed Vireos, Gray-cheeked Thrushes and more can be found. Year-round, Magnificent Frigatebirds soar overhead, shorebirds and seabirds congregate on the seawall and breakwaters. Look for Roseate Terns in summer. The park is famous throughout the United States for attracting rarities from the tropics. Birders from as far as Alaska have traveled to the park to add these species to their life list; La Sagra’s Flycatcher, Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher, Loggerhead Kingbird (1st U.S record), Fork-tailed Flycatcher, Thick-billed Vireo, Cuban Vireo (1st U.S record), Bahama Mockingbird, Yellow-faced Grassquit, Western Spindalis, and Red-legged Honeycreeper have all been found in the park. If you’re heading to bird the keys in spring or fall Fort Zach should be at the top of your list of sites to visit.