felts audubon preserve

This 27-acre Audubon preserve features a comfortable bird-blind for the enjoyment while observing birds, or snapping photos. Owned & managed by Manatee Audubon, this Preserve also provides opportunities to educate the public on environmental issues. The land features a wide range of ecosystems (forest, prarie, wetlands, shorebirds, etc.), and thus is being used by an abundance of different animals including many migratory birds. As of December 2011, we have documented 158 avian species and 33 butterfly species at Felts Audubon Preserve!The Painted Bunting is the signature bird at Felts Audubon Preserve. During winter months in Florida, typically several pairs live at Felts Preserve. Their vibrant colored feathers are best from Jan- late March. Bring your camera to capture them eating special bird seed, or taking a bath next to the bird blind. (Video of the latter: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=akURv0lmLEs&feature=share )Felts Audubon Preserve is open to the public 24/7/365. Parking is available inside a gated fence during major events, but visitors can also park outside the gate along the street, and then simply walk in. There's a Visitor's Information Center with pamphlets, maps, etc. on the right side of the grassy parking lot. Binoculars and bird field guides are available for use inside the bird blind. -- Bring the kids and enjoy time "in the wild" learning about nature.