Birding Snake Bight Trail

Don’t let the name scare you! Snake Bight does not refer to a reputation of snake attacks, but rather to the water formation; a bight is a name for a smaller bay within a larger bay. This unpaved backcountry trail offers views of the mangrove habitat where large, mixed flocks of wading birds including egrets, herons, ibis, storks and spoonbills gather and move around looking for food, mainly during the dry season. There is also a chance of seeing both alligators and crocodiles along the canal next to the trail. Snake Bight Trail can be walked any time of year, but is easiest to walk in the winter when mosquitoes are not abundant. This trail offers the opportunity to see birds restricted to coastal habitats, including Reddish Egret. Other species of shorebirds such as Greater Yellowlegs, Black-necked Stilt, Black-bellied Plover and various other sandpipers can also be found. Shorebirds are most easily observed during high tide when water forces birds off mudflats farther out on Florida Bay and inland towards the shore. Note: In the summer, mosquitoes are in abundance in the mangrove, coastal prairie and marsh habitats. Be sure to bring extra protection when recreating in this area during the summer, including bug spray, long sleeves and bug jackets. A full head net may be needed in some areas.