Returning to Florida

[rlowe]

Last February I joined this forum and received seem good information on where to photograph birds in southern GA and the Merritt Island area of Florida. I had a great time at Merritt Island, Viera wetlands, and Gatorland in Orlando. One of the members responding to my request for info was Tom Brewer and I bumped into him while I was at Viera (roll tide).

I'm coming out from Oregon in about a week for a conference in Tampa Bay. Following the conference I'm going to stay an extra five days to do some photography. My current plans are to hit Ding Darling NWR, Corkscrew Swamp, Shark Valley, Flamingo and the Keyes. I would appreciate feedback on the areas I have listed and hearing about any specific great spots to capture wildlife photos in this general area of south Florida. Also, any areas worth hitting around Tampa early or late in the day?

Thanks in advance for any information you can provide. Wish I had a Viera Wetland near me!

Roy

[dgates]

Ding Darling has a nice variety there. I have not been to the other ones and I am planning on going over there in December so I will watch for the other recommendations as well.

[Tom Brewer]

If you are traveling US 41 south from Tampa, keep your camera handy once you go past Naples. You might also want to check out the Park Service boat tour out of Everglades City. I have been to Shark Valley many times---never been disappointed. There is also a State of Florida, I think, airboat ride that is camera worthy---between Sgark Valley and Miamj. GOOD LUCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[hunter58]

I've heard some good things about Lettuce Lake Park in Tampa, I personally haven't been there yet but have seen a lot of photos from others who have been. I'll get there soon.

www.hillsboroughcounty.org/Facilities.aspx?page=detail&RID=437

If you drive across the bay to St Petersburg there are nice opportunities all over the place. The first exit off of the Howard Frankland Bridge is 4th Street. Just after you get off you can get some nice shots on the west side in the morning or the east side in the afternoon/evening.

Here is a line to the Great Florida Birding Trail, you can click on the locations and search for areas near or in Tampa.

floridabirdingtrail.com/index.php

[rlowe]

Hey guys, thanks for the suggestions. I will definitely check out the sites around Tampa on my free time and I look forward to visiting point further south. So little time and so much ground to cover!

Roy