Field Trip: Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Date: Wednesday, 12 February 2025

Location: Merritt Island NWR

Leader Names: Becky Loftus and Ann Esmas

Trip/area Description: Guides will lead a walking tour of this famous birding location. The Park is a wastewater-treatment wetland that attracts a wide variety of birds, especially large numbers of waterbirds. Songbirds and raptors occur around the tree islands, palm stands and cypress domes. The birds may be approached closely, offering great opportunities for photography. The paths on the levees are dry, and are not open to vehicles, other than bicycles and a tram. We will be walking. Bring drinking water, sunscreen and a hat as the area is open to the sun and can become hot.

Duration of trip in hours: 5 hours at the Refuge.

Walking distance: about 2 miles.

Degree of difficulty, and any special instructions: Parts of the levees can be uneven. No restroom once on the walk. Bring water, snacks, binoculars and sunscreen.

Meeting place: McDonald’s, 9495 108th Ave, Fellsmere, FL 32967. Parking lot at the Chevron gas station/McDonalds on County Road 512, just east of I95.

Time of meeting: 6:00AM

Number of participants limit (either individuals, or vehicles if a driving tour): 20 people.

Host or Publisher Pelican Island Audubon Society