Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
This 13,000-acre Audubon Society keystone site encompasses the largest remaining stand of old-growth bald cypress on the continent. Boasting a 250-plus species list, the 2.25-mile boardwalk through this rare habitat is an easy walk with incredible opportunities for wildlife viewing. Barred Owls and Red-shouldered Hawks watch from low perches as you walk, while Limpkins, White Ibises and a wide assortment of egrets and herons (including night-her¬ons) pick their way through the shallow swamp waters. Don’t forget to bring your camera! Other Florida specialties to look for include Short-tailed Hawk and Purple Gallinule. For those interested in searching for smaller birds, more than 30 species of warbler have been recorded, including Yellow-throated, Prairie and Black-throated Green. Painted Buntings, woodpeckers, Ovenbirds and Swamp Sparrows are often spotted as well. A section of the boardwalk is rerouted around a Wood Stork rookery during breeding season. Stop inside the Blair Audubon Visitor Center where you can chat with Corkscrew volunteer naturalists, browse the sightings log, borrow a pair of binoculars for a small fee or check out the Gallery Café, Nature Store and Discovery Center. This site is a must-see. Call ahead for details about educational programs or visit the website for more information.
Site Information
Admission Fee Required for Entry
Managing Agency
National Audubon Society, Inc.
Operational Hours: Dec. 16 through April 30: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., last admission at 3 p.m. May 1 through Dec. 15: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., last admission at 1 p.m
Size: 13,165 acres
