Description:
These are a group of a dozen or so islands situated in the Gulf of Mexico about 15 miles south of the mouth of the Suwannee River. Between the islands and the coast is a large expanse of salt marsh and a maze of tidal creeks. Along S.R. 24 on the way to Cedar Key, a picturesque fishing village, you will see thousands of acres of sand pine scrub, pine flatwoods, and pockets of cypress swamp.
Watchable wildlife:
Florida scrub jays occasionally perch on power lines close to sand pine scrub, and gopher tortoises are commonly seen as well in these areas. Near Cedar Key, scan the mudflats and salt marshes at low tide for numerous shorebirds and wading birds, including white ibis; great and snowy egrets; and great blue, little blue, and tricolored herons. Double-crested cormorants, bald eagles, northern harriers, ospreys, and brown pelicans can be seen flying over the salt marsh. Look in shallow bays for wintering waterfowl, including common and red-breasted mergansers, lesser scaups, and buffleheads.
Ownership:
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Contact:
(352) 493-0238
Directions:
South on U.S. Highway 98 from Chiefland to Otter Creek. Turn right onto Florida 24 and follow signs to Cedar Key.
Related Sites:
Other North West Florida Wildlife Sites
Florida State Parks
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