Enjoy a short walk as you witness the behavior of these endemic birds.

About this event

Through a partnership with Johnathan Dickinson State Park, we are promoting their Florida Scrub Jay Walk.

The Florida scrub jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) is one of the species of scrub jay native to North America. It is the only species of bird endemic to the U.S. state of Florida and one of only 15 species endemic to the continental United States.

There is no water or restrooms right there, and the walk can get hot quickly – even in January. The path is a well-documented spot where scrub jays have congregated for years, and the federally-threatened birds are seen on most outings but not assured – they are wild animals. Any lightning close enough to hear thunder will cause immediate cancellation of the tour. Your guide, Jim Howe, will also accentuate the Florida scrub ecosystem itself and why fire is essential, while pointing out gopher tortoise burrows and unique plants found only at JDSP.

Walk meets less than 1/4 mile from the park entrance, along the road to the Pine Grove Campground. We will take a once well-paved road, that is now for foot and bicycle traffic only. The walk is between 1/4 and 1/2 mile in length, on gently rolling, open scrub terrain.

From the check in station, take a left turn less than 1/4 mile from the park entrance. There will be a parking lot on the right-hand side. 

You will see an information sign Camp Murphy Off Road Bridge trail. 

Entrance Fee is $ 6.00 per vehicle. 

I would appreciate anyone that completes this walk to share their eBird list with me at Paula@ Auduboneverglades.org. Thank you. 

Restrooms are located at the following locations: (bear Right from entrance)

The bicycling staging area at the Railroad Track Crossing. (porta-potty) 

The Visitors Center at the back of the property, about 4 miles in. 

This is a monthly event, the first Wednesday of the month.