Marathon, FL is home to a number of species of birds that cannot be found anywhere else and this makes it an awesome holiday destination for you in the event that you are a keen birdwatcher. The sub tropical climate, lush vegetation plus the beaches here appeal to these feathered friends from quite a few different areas. Throughout nesting season, you will find several tourists in addition to locals visiting the areas where birds are known to build their homes. If you are an enthusiastic birdwatcher or simply just like seeing these lovely winged creatures up close then you should head out to Marathon, FL.
Florida Keys Birding and Wildlife Festival
A lot of effort is being invested by the local community of Marathon to protect wildlife, particularly birds. This consists of programs to inform the public in addition to volunteering programs that really help safeguard the natural habitats where the birds usually make their homes. The Florida Keys Birding and Wildlife Festival is one such annual event put on in September by eager members who are interested in doing their part for wildlife conservation. This year’s festival will be held in Marathon from September 21st onwards. During this festival, bird watching field trips are going to be hosted to familiarize beginners to the spectacular world of our feathered friends. Volunteers will give out advice, direct you to known birding habitats and explain the need for safeguarding these creatures.
Best Bird Watching Locations in Marathon
There are various sites that are perfect for bird watching in Marathon and you are sure to discover volunteers and bird watching lovers here that are willing to discuss their expertise with you. Birding regions in and around Marathon include Long Key State Park, Marathon Airport, Curry Hammock State Park, Crane Point Museum of Natural History, Bahia Honda State Park, Boot Key and also National Key Deer Refuge. These spectacular sites are also excellent spots for a relaxing picnic. Arranging your rooms at a bluegreen resort, The Hammocks is a fantastic way to enjoy your bird watching holiday in Marathon. You can catch sight of egrets, herons and pelicans amid the mangroves that surround the resort. Simply lose yourself in the inviting greenery that you will find at this environment friendly resort and revive your mind, body and soul.
Rare Species spotted in Marathon
Marathon is home to some rare birds that are deemed threatened species today. One such specie is the shorebird that is named the roseate tern. As outlined by a recent report in The Republic, a flock of roseate terns has built a large colony atop the government building being used by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Fascinatingly, this group is in charge of safeguarding the species. State biologist Zambrano believes that that there are over 65 nests located in this place. The rooftop gravel looks and feels the same as the natural nesting area of these birds which is the reason they have built their colony here, he states. If you are intending on taking a holiday here this summer time you can catch sight of these threatened birds.