Myakka Headwaters Fall Butterfly Count

Join us at Myakka Headwaters Preserve as we look for and identify butterflies. This program is part of a biannual effort to monitor butterfly populations. Long-term monitoring can help land managers make decisions that benefit all species in their care. Butterflies are sensitive to environmental changes and can serve as good indicators of an ecosystem's overall health.

This unique property, open to the public only during special events and guided tours, sits at the source of the Myakka River, where seven creeks converge. The Preserve’s floodplain forests contain tupelo, pop ash, and red maple trees, and support threatened orchids and air plants. We will walk approximately 3 miles on dirt and grass trails through pine and oak forests, cross a floodplain marsh, and wade through a pop ash swamp. Be prepared to get your feet and lower body wet.

This program is recommended for teens and adults. Participants under 16 must attend with a parent or guardian. Participants should be familiar with the common butterfly species found in Florida. We will be hiking up to 2 miles on flooded trails, with water in some areas up to mid-thigh, through tall grass and brush, and the weather will likely be hot and humid. Insects and thorny plants are abundant. Please be prepared for these conditions!

Participants should bring plenty of water, snacks, and wear comfortable clothing (lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and tall socks are best). We recommend sun protection, bug spray, and closed-toe shoes that can be submerged. Please note there are no restrooms or water fountains available on site. The nearest restroom is a short drive away at Myakka Community Park.

A $5 dollar donation per person is suggested for this program. Your gift will help us save wild places and continue to engage people in nature. We greatly appreciate your support!