The Ocala National Forest ls the second largest nationally protected forest in the U.S. State of Florida. It covers 607 square miles of Central Florida. The forest contains a high proportion of remaining inland scrub habitat and is noted for its sand pine scrub ecosystem. The forest contains the largest concentration of sand pine in the world as well as some of the best remaining stands of longleaf pine in central Florida.
Target species include Red-cockaded Woodpecker, Bachman's Sparrow and early spring migrants.
We will carpool from Ormond Beach and travel the forest roads, stopping at the best locations to see the greatest variety of species.
Bring water, snacks and lunch. Bug spray, a good hat and sunscreen are recommended. We will be walking through several types of habitat, but mostly on sand roads and pavement.
Leader - Joan Tague