Fort De Soto Park is made up of five interconnected islands, making it both an easy-to-access natural space and a unique setting where diverse wildlife lives. This private birding tour is an excellent way to discover what seabirds and other fowl migrate to these islands each year. Half-day and limited to two people, this tour is a low-impact, leisurely way to learn more about St Pete’s wildlife.
Spot other wildlife like mammals and reptiles on the islands
Use a checklist to track which birds you see
Snacks and bottled water are provided
Ideal for nature photographers and birdwatchers
What To Expect
Fort De Soto Park
We’ll be taking a 5-hour birding tour of Fort De Soto Park. We’ll drive to each stop within the park then get out and hike around in different habitats including forest, beach, and grass picnic area. There is also a paved area around the fort itself. Starting with the north shore beach at sunrise, we should see plenty of shorebirds ie Piping Plover, Snowy Plover, American Oystercatcher, Reddish Egret, and Marbled Godwit to name a few.
We’ll then move on to the fort area itself to check the beach for Common Loon, Whimbrel, and Red-breasted Merganser. The forested area adjacent to the fort is a hotspot for migratory songbirds, especially warblers.
The rangers house and hiking trail usually boasts the best songbirds in the park. We’ll stop here and look for Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Summer and Scarlet Tanagers, warblers, buntings, and vireos that are attracted to the fresh water fountains and Mulberry trees.
We’ll finish up with a stop at the East Beach to view the Nanday Parakeets.
5 hours • Admission Ticket Included
Highlight
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Not wheelchair accessible
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
Include
Snacks
Bottled water
We’ll provide you with a shared ebird checklist of the bird species seen on your tour.
Exclude
Lunch