Take a Walk on the Wild Side at J W Corbett Wildlife Management Area

Join expert birder and avian ecologist Mike Baranski for a guided exploration of this unique Wildlife Management Area.
About this Event

Take a Walk on the Wild Side at J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area

Join expert birder and avian ecologist Mike Baranski for a guided exploration of this unique Wildlife Management Area.

Trip Overview

Join expert birder and avian ecologist Mike Baranski for a guided exploration of over 60,000 acres of diverse habitat in J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area. Located just east of Lake Okeechobee and 25 miles northwest of West Palm Beach, Corbett is part of both the Ocean to Lake Trail and the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.

This underbirded gem is known for its rich biodiversity and wide-open natural beauty. Past trips have revealed exciting species such as Vermilion Flycatcher, Red-headed Woodpecker, Wilson's Snipe, Ash-throated Flycatcher, and large flocks of Sandhill Cranes. With a mix of pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, and open prairie, this location offers excellent birding for all levels of experience.

About J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area

Located about 25 miles northwest of West Palm Beach, J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area spans over 60,000 acres and is managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. As one of Florida's oldest wildlife management areas, it sits in the transitional zone between central Florida's uplands and the Everglades, protecting some of the highest-quality, relatively undisturbed pine flatwoods, hammocks, and marshes remaining in South Florida. These lands provide critical habitat for a wide range of wildlife, including bald eagles, while also protecting important wetlands that support the larger Everglades ecosystem. Learn more about J.W Corbett Wildlife Management Area at: https://myfwc.com/recreation/lead/j-w-corbett/

General Meeting Area

South entrance area of J.W. Corbett WMA, West Palm Beach, FL 33412. Exact meeting spot, parking instructions, and directions will be sent to registered participants by email.

Important Information

• Registration Required: Space is limited by a fixed vehicle and participant agreement with SFWMD/FWC. Walk-ins cannot be accommodated.

• Every attendee, including passengers, must register individually.

• Entry Fee: $3 per person or $6 per vehicle unless you have a senior pass, payable on-site.

• A Waiver & Release and Hold Harmless Agreement is required to participate and will be presented during registration.

Terrain and Accessibility

• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible

• Terrain Difficulty: Moderate. Routes include unpaved, uneven roads with low-water crossings. Not suitable for low-clearance vehicles.

• Trail Conditions: Some trails may be wet or muddy, especially after rain.

• Restroom Access: Portable toilets are available along the route. A flush restroom is located at Hungryland Boardwalk.

What to Bring

• Insect repellent

• Ample water, snacks, or lunch

• Hat, sunscreen, and other sun/wind protection

• Comfortable walking shoes or boots

• Binoculars (extras may be available to borrow)

Wildlife Advisory

This area is home to a variety of native wildlife, including alligators, snakes, raccoons, fire ants, possums, and possibly a resident bobcat. Please observe from a safe distance.

Photography and Media Notice

Participants may be photographed during the trip. By attending, you agree to allow use of your image in Audubon Everglades' communications and social media unless you opt out by notifying the leader.

About Audubon Everglades

Audubon Everglades is dedicated to the conservation of birds and the environments they depend on. We offer field trips, educational programs, and community engagement throughout the Greater Everglades ecosystem.

www.auduboneverglades.org

Meet Your Guide: Expert birder and Avian Biologist Mike Baranski will be serving as the field guide for this stunning Wildlife Management Area (WMA). Mike boasts the title of the top eBirder for this WMA, having identified an impressive total of 148 species.

Contact: [email protected]

Bird Checklist: We will maintain a shared eBird checklist of sightings. Previous trip highlights (Jan 6, 2024): 54 species observed.

Optional Donation: This event is free to attend, but if you are able, we invite you to make an optional donation to support our Avian Conservation Fund. Select an "Optional Donation" ticket during registration.