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Discover Franklin County’s Year-Round Birding Paradise

By Forgotten Coast Web Team | October 14, 2024

Little bird in Alligator Point

Franklin County, Florida, also known as the Forgotten Coast, is a birding paradise, offering exceptional opportunities to observe a wide range of species throughout the year! From migrating shorebirds in the spring to rare winter visitors, birders of all levels will find something to enjoy in this pristine natural area.

St. George Island is a must-visit for birding enthusiasts, with its beaches and marshes teeming with warblers and songbirds during migration. In summer, the region comes alive with nesting species like ospreys and bald eagles, taking advantage of the diverse habitats, from salt marshes to towering trees.

Fall brings a spectacular migration, as birds escape the cooler northern climates, followed by raptors such as hawks and falcons. Bald Point State Park is one of the best spots in the Southeast to witness this annual event, where you’ll also find Gulf Fritillary and Monarch butterflies fluttering through the air.

Winter in Franklin County attracts ducks, loons, and waterbirds to its relatively warm waters. For a unique birding experience, head to St. Vincent Island, a National Wildlife Refuge accessible only by boat, where you can spot the majestic Wood Stork and other winter visitors.

Whether you’re here for the colorful migrations or the quiet beauty of winter birdwatching, Franklin County offers a stunning backdrop for year-round birding adventures. Plan your trip today and experience Florida’s Forgotten Coast, where nature thrives in every season.