The Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail is one of the longest running programs of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. What started as an idea from Florida Audubon to designate the state’s best birding sites quickly gained support from the then Florida Game and Freshwater Fish Commission. By 1998 the project was up and running. The East Florida section of the Trail opened in November 2000, accompanied by a stylish guidebook. The West Florida section followed in November 2002 and the Panhandle Florida section opened in May 2004. The ambitious, statewide project was completed with the opening of the South Florida section in 2006.
The Trail is an amazing example of partnership between dozens of federal, state, and local government agencies, non-governmental organizations and private landowners who all have met the selection criteria to be part of the Trail. Visitors can enjoy the full breadth of Florida’s natural beauty at areas ranging from vast National Wildlife Refuges and Wildlife Management Areas to small but significant city parks, from the panhandle all the way to the Dry Tortugas.
The Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail is managed by FWC’s Public Access Service Office. The Trail’s dedicated staff manages partnerships with sites, researchers and volunteers with the ultimate goal of encouraging conservation by fostering connections between people and Florida’s wildlife and wildlands.
Start Your Birding Journey Today!
Birding is a wonderful hobby that anyone can enjoy. Whether you’re watching birds from your window or exploring new places, every bird you see adds to your experience and knowledge. So grab your binoculars, head outside, and start your birding adventure today!
