Birding Along the Anhinga Trail

The Anhinga Trail offers some of the best close-range birding opportunities in the park. During the winter months of December – March, Purple Gallinules can be see hopping across the lily pads. In the summer, but sometimes as early as March, Swallow-tailed Kites can be seen soaring overhead. Wading birds like herons, egrets and ibis are present throughout the year but are in highest numbers during the winter dry season. Anhingas nest in multiple locations along the trail, and can be seen swimming both above and below the water’s surface with double-crested cormorants. Note: Be mindful of Black Vultures at this location, especially in winter and during morning hours. These birds have developed a habit of damaging soft material on vehicles, including weather stripping and windshield wiper blades. A limited number of tarps with bungee cords are onsite to help protect vehicles while exploring the Royal Palm area.