Sarasota Real Estate Blog

Why Sarasota County is a Birdwatcher’s Dream ????

Nestled along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Sarasota County offers an incredible mix of subtropical habitats—wetlands, coastal marshes, hardwood hammocks, prairie, and pinewoods—that attract more than 245 bird species, including Roseate spoonbills, Bald eagles, Limpkins, Purple gallinules, and Sandhill cranes. Migration season in winter draws thousands of birds passing through, making it one of the busiest bird migration corridors in the country  .

???? Top Local Birding Spots in Sarasota County

1. Celery Fields (East Sarasota)

Once farmland used for growing celery, this 440-acre site is now one of Florida’s most acclaimed birding hotspots. Located near I-75 and Palmer Boulevard, Celery Fields features a mix of restored wetlands, retention ponds, and uplands that create diverse habitats. More than 245 bird species have been recorded here, including rare and migratory species such as the Black-necked stilt, Snail kite, and Least bittern. Birders can enjoy boardwalks, shaded viewing platforms, and two large observation mounds that give panoramic views of the wetlands.

???? Bonus: The Sarasota Audubon Nature Center on site offers nature talks, guided tours, and a native plant garden. It’s a year-round favorite for local and visiting birders alike.

2. Myakka River State Park (East of Sarasota)

One of Florida’s oldest and largest state parks, Myakka encompasses over 37,000 acres of prairies, hammocks, marshes, and the scenic Myakka River. This park is perfect for spotting wading birds, waterfowl, and birds of prey, including Roseate spoonbills, Crested caracaras, Wood storks, and even the occasional Swallow-tailed kite soaring overhead. The park includes a 40-foot-high canopy walkway, which allows birders to observe forest species from a unique treetop vantage point.

???? Bonus: Boat tours on Upper Myakka Lake offer a relaxing way to spot birds like, anhingas, and cormorants up close.

3. Oscar Scherer State Park (Osprey)

Located between Sarasota and Venice, Oscar Scherer State Park is a top location to view the Florida scrub-jay, among the bird species endemic to Florida—and a threatened one at that. The park’s 1,400 acres of scrubby flatwoods, freshwater lakes, and pine forests support a wide array of species, including Painted buntings, Eastern towhees, and Great horned owls.

???? Bonus: The Legacy Trail runs directly through the park, providing accessible biking and hiking routes with birding opportunities along the way. Seasonal ranger-led bird walks add to the experience.

4. Quick Point Nature Preserve & Bird Key Park (Lido Key area)

These two smaller preserves on the water’s edge are perfect for casual or spontaneous birding trips. Quick Point Nature Preserve, located at the southern tip of Longboat Key, features tidal lagoons, mangroves, and boardwalk trails ideal for spotting Snowy egrets, Black-crowned night herons, and Pelicans.

Bird Key Park, situated near the Ringling Bridge, is popular for early morning birding and offers a prime view of osprey nesting platforms, gulls, and terns along Sarasota Bay.

???? Bonus: Both spots are conveniently close to downtown Sarasota and provide peaceful escapes with stunning water views and wildlife photography opportunities.

5. Pinecraft Park & Red Bug Slough Preserve (Central Sarasota)

These urban nature preserves are hidden gems for birders who want to enjoy nature without leaving the city.

Pinecraft Park, near the Amish and Mennonite neighborhood of the same name, features shady oak hammocks and the Phillippi Creek—perfect for spotting ibis, hawks, warblers, and barred owls.

Red Bug Slough, located off Beneva Road, is a quiet 72-acre natural area with ponds, pine flatwoods, and a butterfly garden. It attracts Wood ducks, Limpkins, Green herons, and even otters and bobcats on occasion.

???? Bonus: These spots are easily accessible from nearby neighborhoods and offer picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking trails—great for families and casual birders.

Wrap-Up

With its variety of landscapes and top-tier natural areas like Celery Fields, Myakka River, and Oscar Scherer, Sarasota County isn’t just a beautiful place to call home—it’s a birdwatching lover’s dream due to it’s thriving birding culture and stunning preserves.