FIELD TRIP: Captain Forster Hammock Preserve Conservation Area

Date: Thursday, 30 January 2025

Location: Captain Forster Hammock Preserve Conservation Area

Leader Name: Susan and Wes Lovelace

Trip/area Description, with any special characteristics: The 110-acre conservation area includes several different habitats, especially the Maritime Hammock, which is one of the last remaining mature maritime hammocks in the county. The 1.1-mile trail is easy walking and extends from the parking area on South Jungle Trail on the shoreline of the Indian River Lagoon through the hammock and Coastal Scrub to the dune at the oceanfront. Birding is often good, especially during migrations. This is a popular birding spot during migration when the area is filled with songbirds, especially a large variety of warblers and is featured as part of the “Great Florida Birding Trail”. Good place to see Barred Owls and Black-bellied Whistling Ducks.

Restrooms are available at the parking area. Registration is required. Please bring your own binoculars.

Duration of trip in hours: 2 hours

Walking distance: 1.1 miles

Degree of difficulty, and any special instructions: Easy walking on flat, packed trail. It’s a good idea to wear wellies or waterproof boots as parts of the trail can be quite wet.

Where you’d like participants to meet: Parking area at 8650 South Jungle Trail, Vero Beach, FL

Time of meeting: 8:00 a.m.

Number of participants limit: 20 persons

Host or Publisher Pelican Island Audubon Society