Take a Walk on the Wild Side: Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Ready for a new birding adventure?
Step into one of South Florida’s most unique natural gems on a guided birding walk through Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, a lush tropical hardwood hammock tucked between the city and the sea. Join expert birder and scientist Dr. Corey Callaghan for an engaging, relaxed exploration of this diverse habitat, perfect for both beginners and seasoned birders.

As we walk the full loop trail, you’ll learn how to spot and identify birds by sight and sound, understand their behaviors, and discover how this park serves as a critical refuge for wildlife in an urban landscape. Expect a mix of resident species and seasonal migrants, all set against a backdrop of towering trees, shaded paths, and coastal breezes. We’ll conclude our walk with a visit to the beach, where birds, ocean views, and fresh air come together.

What to Expect

• About 2 miles of easy, relaxed walking
• Mostly flat, beginner-friendly terrain
• Guided birding with expert insight
• Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and curious minds

Meeting Location
Meet in the parking lot immediately to the right when you enter the park - approximately here:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/HDhSjQ2fe5geiZsj9

What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes, water, sun protection, binoculars (if you have them), and curiosity.

Whether you’re new to birding or looking to deepen your appreciation of South Florida’s natural world, this walk offers a fun, educational, and inspiring outdoor experience.

Start and End Time: 8 AM to 11:30 AM

Meeting Location: Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Difficulty Level: Easy.

Suggested Ages: 18+

Distance: 2 mile

Max Number of Attendees: 15

Special Requirements: None - any beginner level

Cost & Park Entry
This guided birding walk is free to attend.
Please note that Hugh Taylor Birch State Park charges an entry fee, which is paid directly to the park upon arrival.

• Free for Friends of Birch Members
• $6 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
• $4 per single-occupant vehicle
• $2 per pedestrian or bicyclist

Park entry fees are subject to change.
$2.00 Pedestrians, Bicyclists, Rollerbladers, Extra Passengers
$4.00 Single-occupant Vehicle or Motorcycle
$6.00 per Vehicle (Limit 2-8 people per Vehicle)

Photos & Social Media:
We love seeing your nature pics! By registering, you agree to photo sharing for AE’s social pages. Prefer not to be photographed? Just let us know ahead of time.

Important Reminders:

• Registration is required - walk-ins if space allows.
• Space is limited, so cancel if you can’t attend to let someone on the waitlist in
• No drones, glass, alcohol, or littering

Questions or accommodation requests?
Reach out at [email protected]

Dr. Corey T. Callaghan is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation at the University of Florida, based at the Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center in Davie, Florida. His research focuses on leveraging 'big data', often contributed through citizen science initiatives, to understand biodiversity in space and time, with an emphasis on how biodiversity responds to anthropogenic habitat modification. In his free time he can most often be found birding or iNatting. His favorite bird is a White Hawk!

www.coreytcallaghan.com

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Host or Publisher Audubon Everglades