“I hear it! Do you see it?”
“Omigosh, it’s so beautiful!”
“Why can’t it sit still?”

Trekking on Thursday at Fort Cooper State Park

Birdwatching is one of the most popular pastimes for men, women and children. It’s
inexpensive, healthy and utterly captivating. The first time one sees a pileated woodpecker
can be breathtaking – its size, shape and brilliant red head – a true Woody Woodpecker! The
flash of a bluebird leaves one searching for its landing spot for a closer look at its bright blue
body and rusty chest.
Trekking on Thursday at Fort Cooper State Park, 3100 S. Old Floral City Road in
Inverness, finds groups of eager birders assembling at 9:00a.m. or earlier to glimpse the
Park’s feathered visitors. This bird walk begins Thursday, April 7, 2022
Led by naturalist Dee Bolton, identifications of bird species and their calls can
sometimes be quite easy or offer a challenge, leaving one to page through a birding book.
Birders often bring a notebook to record their sightings or add to their Life List.
The park surroundings are old Florida at its finest and the trek along the trails are
easy-going and not difficult. Some trails are paved, if one has ability issues.

Bring a pair of binoculars (extra binoculars are available), some closed-toed shoes and a bit
of patience, as spring birds can be elusive.
Entrance to the park is $3 per vehicle (up to 8 people), payable at the Honor Box located at the
Ranger Station or back gate. Exact cash only, please. For further information, call 352-726-0315.