Bird Watching on the St. Johns River

If you’re into bird watching, the place to be is the St. Johns River. The river is teaming with wading birds during the day and thousands of birds returning to their nests by evening. Spring is also the time of year that birds descend back north, making this the opportune time to observe their migration.

We would love to educate you about various bird species, along with other wildlife and the crucial role that Florida plays to migration patterns and the ecosystem so you’re ready for bird watching on the St. Johns River.

Birds to Watch for on the St. Johns River

white pelicans on the river
Your’e likely to spot white pelicans when you’re bird watching on the St. Johns River.

If it’s birds that brought you to the St. Johns River, it’s birds you’re going to see. Bird watching is best during the fall, winter and spring and the St. Johns River also serves as an incredible backdrop, guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.

This time of year, you’re likely to see:

  • Bald Eagles
  • White Pelicans
  • Northern Harriers
  • Sandhill Cranes
  • Mottled Ducks
  • Blue-Winged and Green-Winged Teal Wood Stork
  • Moorhens
  • Night Herons
  • Roseate Spoonbills
  • Marlins
  • Peregrine Falcons
  • Wild Turkeys Limpkins
  • Wood Ducks
  • Crested Caracaras
  • Black Skimmers
  • Sedge Wrens

Florida: The International Bird Hub

bird watching migration on the river
Florida is a major rest stop for birds migrating north to their nesting sites for the summer.

The bi-annual cycle of birds migrating is in full swing during the months of March and April. Florida is a major rest stop for birds upon crossing the Florida Straits channeling from Cuba, South America and the Caribbean; until they proceed north to stake out prime breeding territories. Make sure you check them out while bird watching on the St. Johns River while you can.

I’m Bird Watching on a Boat!

A egret on a boat in the river
You never know who will drop in to captain your boat when you’re bird watching on the St. Johns River.

You can do plenty of bird watching while hiking or walking the various conservation areas and reserves that line the St. Johns River. Now it’s time to think out of the box though. Imagine the envy of your bird watching buddies when you return to tell them about bird watching on a boat or a kayak.

Watching wildlife while bird watching on the St. Johns River is a panoramic view of nature. There’s a lot more to see than just birds. The area is also home to manatee, deer, otter, bobcat, gators coasting along the river banks and sometimes the occasional Florida panther. Don’t forget to reserve some time to fish!

Need a place to stay? We offer cabins right on the river and boat rentals. Pick up the phone and call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3422 to plan your perfect bird watching experience on the river.

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About Castaways on the River

Castaways on the River offers boat rentals and lodging accommodations in beautiful Astor, Florida. Come experience the natural beauty of Central Florida's fresh waters. http://www.castawaysontheriver.com

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