Audubon Everglades

Tall Cypress Natural Area
2026-04-05 08:00 - 11:00, 2026-05-03 08:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | Tall Cypress Natural Area, 3700 Turtle Run Boulevard, Coral Springs, FL, 33065, United States
Join Bruce Pickholtz and Nick DeCesare along this elevated boardwalk.

Purple Martin Citizen Scientist for a Day
2026-04-06 11:00 - 13:00, 2026-05-03 11:00 - 13:00 | Peaceful Waters Sanctuary, 11676 Pierson Road, Wellington, FL, 33414, United States
Become a citizen scientist, gathering useful data that helps conservation efforts with Shelly Rozenberg and Audubon Everglades!

About this event:
Date: Monday April 6, 2026
Start time: 11:00am
End Time: 1:00pm
Event lasts 2 hours
UNDER 18 WITH PARENT OR LEGAL GUARDIAN

Purple Martin Citizen Scientist for a Day
Location: Peaceful Waters Sanctuary
Village Park 11676 Pierson Road, Wellington, FL 33414
Have you always wanted to be a citizen scientist, gathering useful data that helps conservation efforts? Join Audubon Everglades’ Purple Martin Conservation Lead Shelly Rozenberg for a peek into the nests of Purple Martins. You will learn about the life cycle of these native songbirds and their reliance on humans to survive. Observe these social birds and aerial acrobats close up in their man-made habitats and assist with a routine nest check to collect data on egg laying and nestlings as part of citizen science research.

What to Expect:
· Fascinating bird facts and field observations from a Purple Martin conservationist.
· A unique opportunity to see inside the habitats and nests of these amazing birds.

Logistics:
· Parking: Park in Village Park lot designated for Peaceful Waters Sanctuary.
· Meeting Spot: Entrance to Peaceful Waters Sanctuary.
· Restrooms: Adjacent to parking lot.

Bring:
· Water
· Sunscreen
· Bug spray
· Hat
· Binoculars
· Camera or smart phone to take photos (optional)

Good to Know:
· Registration is required. No walk-ins.
· Be on time so we can make the most of our time in the field.
· Rain: Program will be canceled if it rains.
· Photos may be taken for social media. Let us know if you’d rather not be included.
· Must be able to tolerate hot climate and sun. Please wear protective clothing, sunscreen and bring your water bottle.
· Please cancel if you can’t make it—someone else may be waiting.
· Under 18? Bring an adult.
This is a great opportunity to get outside, learn all about Purple Martins and connect with people who love nature as much as you do. Questions? Reach out: fieldtrips@auduboneverglades.org
Questions? Reach out: fieldtrips@auduboneverglades.org

Accessibility Information:
Parking: Some accessible parking available at the designated Peaceful Waters parking lot.
Restrooms: Accessible restrooms located adjacent to the Peaceful Water parking lot.
Benches: Benches are available for resting at the entrance to Peaceful Waters.
Trail Width: The trail is typically 8 feet wide.
Surface: Grassy surface with some bumps.
Cell Phone Service: Cell service may be intermittent on the trail.

About Your Guide
Shelly Rozenberg
As Purple Martin Conservation Lead for Audubon Everglades, Shelly Rozenberg provides public education, community outreach and support to Purple Martin enthusiasts throughout Palm Beach County where she is often referred to as “The Purple Martin Queen.” She fosters partnerships with local nature centers and public wetlands and has currently joined forces with 12 ambassador locations including Wakodahatchee Wetlands, Green Cay Nature Center, Lion Country Safari, Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, Okeeheelee Nature Center, Wellington Environmental Preserve, Peaceful Waters Sanctuary, Daggerwing Nature Center, Riverbend Park, Epiphany Lutheran Church, and Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Stations 25 and 27, Conservation partnerships include Palm Beach County Water Utilities Department, Village of Wellington and Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation. Together they are making a difference in increasing a declining population by providing suitable breeding habitats for these native songbirds

WINGO - CANCELLED
2026-04-08 18:30 - 20:00 | Florida
Due to severe weather this event has been canceled. Please join us next month, same time, same place.

Guided Birding Driving Tour at STA-2
2026-04-11 07:30 - 11:30 | Florida
Join us for a fun morning spotting birds on a guided driving tour at STA-2.

After two years of construction, STA-2 is now open for tours!

Join SFWMD guides Brian Garrett , Sydney Kaufman, Audubon Everglades Field Guides Kyle Matera & LeaAnne DeRigne for a rare opportunity to explore this vital wetland habitat. This special access is made possible through our partnership with the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD).
During the driving tour, participants will follow a caravan led by SFWMD employees along the levees, stopping at multiple locations to observe and photograph birds and wildlife. At each stop, sightings of secretive marsh birds, wading birds, waterfowl, and other species may be seen. Target species may include Black-necked Stilts, Limpkins, Purple Gallinules, Snail Kites, Fulvous Whistling-Ducks, Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks, and occasionally rarities like the American Flamingo, Least Bittern, or Crested Caracara.

About the Event
Guides will help participants identify birds and share insights into their behaviors, calls, and habitats. This is not a walking tour; all observation occurs from vehicles or at frequent stops. Participants should be prepared to exit cars at stops and return to their vehicles to continue the tour. This tour is for ages 12 and above. Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Event Details

Meeting Location: STA-2 entrance (directions below)
Check-In Time: 7:30 AM
Start time: 7:45 AM
End Time: 11:30 AM
Restrooms: Not available on-site; closest port-a-potty at A1 FEB
Accessibility: Fully accessible from vehicles; some stops have levee edges for scope setup but do not require walking

Registration and Carpool Rules

This is a carpool driving tour with 4 people per vehicle including the driver.
Drivers: Register as “Driver.”
Passengers: Register as “Passenger” and indicate your preferred driver if known.
If you do not arrive with 4 registered participants in your vehicle, you may need to take additional passengers or join another car. Please coordinate before arrival to save time.
Mandatory SFWMD Release: Email the completed form to fieldtrips@auduboneverglades.org prior to the event. Failure to submit will prevent attendance.
Cancellation: Notify us early if you cannot attend to allow others to participate
No Walk-ins allowed on STA and driving tours, registration is mandatory.

Tour Format & Safety
This is a driving tour with multiple stops guided by expert birders and biologists. Each vehicle will be issued a radio to ensure consistent communication during the tour. For the safety of all participants and to protect the integrity of the land, everyone must stay on the designated route at all times. Do not stray from the path or leave the caravan unless instructed by a trip leader.

Important Access Information

This tour starts promptly at 7:45 AM and the gates will be closed. No exceptions can be made. Please allow enough travel time to be at the location by 7:30 AM.
This tour takes place on unpaved, dirt roads. Roads can be muddy, uneven and can have large potholes.
Vehicle Requirements: High clearance, good tires, and a full tank of gas. Please fuel up before arrival.
Terrain: Minimal walking involved. Activities occur from or near vehicles.
Trail Length: Approximately 6–10 miles of slow caravan driving with frequent stops.
Accessibility: Birding may be conducted from the car for people with limited mobility.

Birding Rules

Listen to and follow the instructions of the Field Trip Leader. Do not walk ahead of the leader.
Be respectful of your fellow participants.
Avoid flushing birds: close car doors gently, do not slam doors, and minimize loud noises.
Maintain a safe distance to avoid disturbing the birds. If a bird is flushed, do not chase it.
Please follow the ABA standards of ethical birding and photography

E-bird and Photography

A shared eBird list will be provided
By signing the Audubon Everglades consent form, you agree your photo may be taken and shared on AE’s social media
Prefer not to be photographed? Let us know in advance
Share your photos and tag us: @AudubonEverglades

What to Bring

Water
Snacks or lunch
Binoculars
Camera or spotting scope
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Wide-brimmed hat

Important Reminders

No drones, glass, alcohol, or littering
Space is limited; please cancel if you cannot attend
The caravan is led by SFWMD employees; all participants must exit the STA once the tour concludes.

We look forward to exploring STA-2, observing its extraordinary birds, and experiencing this essential wetland habitat together.

About STA-2
Stormwater Treatment Areas (STAs) are large, constructed wetlands planted with native vegetation that create essential habitat for birds and wildlife. They provide shallow pools and dense vegetation that attract wading birds, waterfowl, and secretive marsh species, offering food, shelter, and breeding grounds.
STAs also benefit people. They help store and supply water that flows into our rivers, lakes, and aquifers, supporting drinking water, fisheries, and healthy communities. In short, STAs sustain both wildlife and the water we rely on every day, making them critical for South Florida’s ecosystems and people.

Directions to STA-2
Coordinates: N 26 22 23.60 W 080 33 59.13

From I-95 and Southern Blvd:

Head West on SR 80/US 441 N/Southern Blvd
Turn Left onto FL-15/SR 80W, follow for 28.5 miles
Turn Left onto US-27 South, follow 23.2 miles (you will pass the entrance to A1 FEB)
Between mile markers 50 and 51, look for the bridge on the East side
Turn Left, cross the bridge to the entrance to STA-2

From Florida’s Turnpike (tollroad)

Exit 71 for FL-869 S/Sawgrass Expy, follow 20.7 miles
Merge onto I-595, then I-75 North, take exit 23 onto US-27 North toward South Bay
Follow US-27 North 17.5 miles, between mile markers 50 and 51, look for the bridge on the East side
Turn Right, cross the bridge, turn left to the entrance gate

Take a Walk on the Wild Side: Let's Get Botanical!
2026-04-12 15:30 - 18:00 | Juno Dunes Natural Area, 14501 U.S. Highway 1, Juno Beach, FL, 33408, United States
Let’s dive into the world of plants; bring your camera, your curiosity and hiking boots, and get ready to expect the unexpected!

Take a Walk on the Wild Side
Audubon Everglades gets botanical this year and kicks off a new series of hikes focused on exploring Florida’s habitats and the variety of native plants and wildlife that flourish in them.
Check out the Scrub, Coastal Hammocks and Flatwoods to see exciting wildflower meadows, orchids and other interesting rare plants. Learn about the interactions plants have not only with each other, but with birds, pollinators and butterflies. Along with endangered habitats, we’ll see rare and imperiled plants in different native plant communities and how they flourish in restored natural areas.
Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a curious nature enthusiast, these hikes will offer fresh perspectives on the natural world, helping you connect more deeply with the habitats and native plants that make South Florida exceptional, unique and special.
Bring your camera, your curiosity and hiking boots, and get ready to expect the unexpected.

Walk on the Edge as the Coastal Hammock Meets the Scrub
Guides:
CJ McCartney, Audubon Everglades Advisory Board, Environmental Steward
Mindi Ogden, Audubon Everglades Board of Directors, Chair of Plants for Birds, Ecologist for the Preservation Society, and Program Associate at the Institute for Regional Conservation
Join CJ and Mindi to explore an interesting oceanfront tract in Juno Dunes Natural Area where two ecosystems meet in a region known as an ecotone. Ecotones are special edges between habitats that have abundant plant diversity. The wildflowers and plants are amazing to see as the habitats merge in these unique areas.
Curious? Interested? We will guide you through these habitats and the role the plants play where the coastal hammock meets the scrub. Along with examining the differences a habitat makes to plant life and to the wildlife that lives there, we will observe the layers and niche environments for specialist species. CJ and Mindi will guide you through the plants and their roles in the ecosystem so you can walk away with a fresh appreciation for these incredible places and how important Wild Florida is to all of us.
This hike is for the experienced, beginner and the curious who want to see Wild Florida at its finest. Expect natural, sandy trails so wear closed toe shoes, bring sun protection (hat, glasses etc.) and water. Expect fun, all are welcome to come explore and get botanical in this amazing ecosystem.
WHAT TO EXPECT:

A guided walk of Juno Dunes Natural Area to explore the native plants and wildflowers that are unique to this ecosystem.
Fascinating habitat and plant facts and field insight from naturalists
An opportunity to see the connection of native plants, pollinators and birds.
Observe Coastal Hammock and Scrub habitats and the plant communities that grow in them.
A plant check list and an iNaturalist project to remember the trails you walked and the plants you saw.

LOGISTICS:

Where: Juno Dunes Oceanfront Tract, 14200 South U.S. Highway 1, Juno Beach. Park behind Loggerhead Marinelife Center and meet in the northeast end of the parking lot.
When: April 12, 2026. 3:30-6:00 pm
Meeting Spot: Trail head on northeast end of parking lot.
Restrooms: There are no restrooms.

GOOD TO KNOW:

Registration is required. No walk-ins.
Be on time so we can make the most of our time in the field.
Rain or shine, unless there’s a hurricane.
Trail conditions can vary; Concrete to sandy natural trails.
Photos may be taken for social media. Let us know if you’d rather not be included.
Please cancel if you can’t make it—someone else may be waiting.
Bring Sun Protection – eyeglasses, hats etc.

WHAT TO BRING:

Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting dirty/wet.
Closed toe shoes you don’t mind getting muddy or wet.
Bring sun protection (hats, glasses etc.) and bug spray.
Bring water and a water bottle.

This is a wonderful chance to spend time outdoors, learn from top naturalists while connecting with fellow nature enthusiasts.

About Your Guide:
CJ McCartney, Environmental Steward
After moving to South Florida from Chicago in the late nineties, CJ McCartney underwent a shift in interests. Unfettered from her company, and now living in a subtropical climate, she began cycling and hiking natural habitats and started noticing the wildlife that lived in and depended upon them for survival.
Along with a changing philosophy from “Somebody ought to do something about that, to one day realizing that she could do something,” she started learning how to be a knowledgeable and effective Environmental Steward. Along with training to become a Master Gardener, she started taking a variety of botanical and horticulture classes and seminars to supplement her formal education from Harvard University in public policy and urban management.
Currently, she is the Master Gardner in Residence at Ann Norton Sculpture Garden and serves on Audubon Everglades Advisory Board and several state and local Boards and committees. She leads a Conservation Conversation and Art & Nature Series focusing on reconciliation ecology.
Two decades later, that budding interest takes many forms – photographing nature, speaking to community groups as well as designing/installing pollinator and wildflower gardens are just some of the ways it shows up today.
She approaches community service with an underlying belief that – together – we can mitigate the loss of natural habitats by creating a patch or a plot of wildlife friendly spaces to offer our homeless wildlife and native plants a safe and welcoming haven that establishes wildlife corridors while restoring biodiversity.
Contact information: CJ McCartney, cjmpbc@gmail.com Instagram: @Botanizingbirdingbutterflies

Take a Walk on the Wild Side at J W Corbett Wildlife Management Area
2026-04-18 08:00 - 10:00 | West Palm Beach, FL 33412, 11835 Seminole Pratt Whitney Road,, West Palm Beach, FL, 33412, United States
Join expert birder and avian ecologist Mike Baranski for a guided exploration of this unique Wildlife Management Area.

Trip OverviewJoin expert birder and avian ecologist Mike Baranski for a guided exploration of over 60,000 acres of diverse habitat in J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area. Located just east of Lake Okeechobee and 25 miles northwest of West Palm Beach, Corbett is part of both the Ocean to Lake Trail and the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.
This underbirded gem is known for its rich biodiversity and wide-open natural beauty. Past trips have revealed exciting species such as Vermilion Flycatcher, Red-headed Woodpecker, Wilson’s Snipe, Ash-throated Flycatcher, and large flocks of Sandhill Cranes. With a mix of pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, and open prairie, this location offers excellent birding for all levels of experience.
Meeting DetailsMeeting Point: South entrance, behind the check-in station. Look for a log home on the left-hand side with parking behind it.
Address: 11835 Seminole Pratt Whitney Road, West Palm Beach, FL 33412
Directions: From Southern Blvd, take Seminole Pratt Whitney Road. This road dead-ends into J.W. Corbett WMA. You’ll pass the Palm Beach Shooting Sports Complex. Turn left into the WMA just before the canal. If you pass the canal, you’ve gone too far.
Important Information

Registration Encouraged: Please register in advance to secure your spot. Walk-ins are allowed only if space permits and must sign a waiver at check-in.
Group Size: Participation is limited for safety and a high-quality experience.
Vehicle Registration: One ticket per vehicle. If you’re riding together, register as one. If you need or can offer a ride, contact us and we’ll help coordinate.
Arrival Time: Please plan to arrive early to account for traffic or GPS errors.
Entry Fee: $3 per person or $6 per vehicle unless you have a senior pass. Pay at the yellow self-check station and place the receipt in your windshield.

Terrain and Accessibility

Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible
Terrain Difficulty: Moderate. Routes include unpaved, uneven roads with three low-water crossings. Not suitable for low-clearance vehicles.
Trail Conditions: Some trails may be wet or muddy, especially after rain. Please wear appropriate footwear suitable for rough and wet terrain.
Restroom Access: Portable toilets are available along the route. A flush restroom is located at Hungryland Boardwalk.

Route (Subject to Change)South Grade → Boardwalk → Stumpers Grade → Tomato GradeStops will include birding hotspots and campsites where migrant birds are often observed. The final route is at the discretion of the trip leader.
What to Bring

Insect repellent
Ample water, snacks, or lunch
Hat, sunscreen, and other sun/wind protection
Comfortable walking shoes or boots
Binoculars (extras may be available to borrow)

Wildlife AdvisoryThis area is home to a variety of native wildlife, including alligators, snakes, raccoons, fire ants, possums, and possibly a resident bobcat. Please observe from a safe distance.
Photography and Media NoticeParticipants may be photographed during the trip. By attending, you agree to allow use of your image in Audubon Everglades’ communications and social media unless you opt out by notifying the leader.
Contact: fieldtrips@auduboneverglades.org
Bird ChecklistWe will maintain a shared eBird checklist of sightings.Previous trip highlights (Jan 6, 2024): 54 species observed. View checklist
Learn MoreJ.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area website:https://myfwc.com/recreation/lead/j-w-corbett-wma/

Optional Donation
This event is free to attend, but if you are able, we invite you to make an optional donation to support our Avian Conservation Fund. Your contribution helps us keep these experiences accessible to all and directly supports local conservation and education programs.
You can select an “Optional Donation” ticket during registration. Thank you for helping us protect Florida’s birds and habitats!

About Audubon Everglades
Audubon Everglades is dedicated to the conservation of birds and the environments they depend on. We offer field trips, educational programs, and community engagement throughout the Greater Everglades ecosystem.
www.auduboneverglades.org

Meet Your Guide: Expert birder and Avian Biologist Mike Baranski will be serving as the field guide for this stunning Wildlife Management Area (WMA). Mike boasts the title of the top eBirder for this WMA, having identified an impressive total of 148 species.

Purple Martin Citizen Scientist for a Day
2026-04-18 11:00 - 13:00 | PBCFR Station 25, 1060 Wellington Trace, Wellington, FL, 33414, United States
Become a citizen scientist, gathering useful data that helps conservation efforts with Shelly Rozenberg and Audubon Everglades!

About this event:
Date: Saturday April 18, 2026
Start time: 11:00am
End Time: 1:00pm
Event lasts 2 hours
UNDER 18 WITH PARENT OR LEGAL GUARDIAN

Purple Martin Citizen Scientist for a Day
Location: Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Station 25
1060 Wellington Trace, Wellington, Florida 33414
Have you always wanted to be a citizen scientist, gathering useful data that helps conservation efforts? Join Audubon Everglades’ Purple Martin Conservation Lead Shelly Rozenberg for a peek into the nests of Purple Martins. You will learn about the life cycle of these native songbirds and their reliance on humans to survive. Observe these social birds and aerial acrobats close up in their man-made habitats and assist with a routine nest check to collect data on egg laying and nestlings as part of citizen science research.

What to Expect:
· Fascinating bird facts and field observations from a Purple Martin conservationist.
· A unique opportunity to see inside the habitats and nests of these amazing birds.

Logistics:
· Parking: Park at the entrance of the building where public parking is permitted.
· Meeting Spot: Purple Martin Habitat
· Restrooms: Inside Fire Station

Bring:
· Water
· Sunscreen
· Bug spray
· Hat
· Binoculars
· Camera or smart phone to take photos (optional)

Good to Know:
· Registration is required. No walk-ins.
· Be on time so we can make the most of our time in the field.
· Rain: Program will be canceled if it rains.
· Photos may be taken for social media. Let us know if you’d rather not be included.
· Must be able to tolerate hot climate and sun. Please wear protective clothing, sunscreen and bring your water bottle.
· Please cancel if you can’t make it—someone else may be waiting.
· Under 18? Bring an adult.
This is a great opportunity to get outside, learn all about Purple Martins and connect with people who love nature as much as you do. Questions? Reach out: fieldtrips@auduboneverglades.org
Questions? Reach out: fieldtrips@auduboneverglades.org

Accessibility Information:
Parking: Some accessible parking available at the public parking lot.
Restrooms: Accessible restrooms located inside the fire station.
Benches: Benches are available for resting at the entrance to Peaceful Waters.
Trail Width: Road with 7 feet of grass.
Surface: Paved roads and grassy surfaces.
Cell Phone Service: Cell service may be intermittent on the trail.

About Your Guide
Shelly Rozenberg
As Purple Martin Conservation Lead for Audubon Everglades, Shelly Rozenberg provides public education, community outreach and support to Purple Martin enthusiasts throughout Palm Beach County where she is often referred to as “The Purple Martin Queen.” She fosters partnerships with local nature centers and public wetlands and has currently joined forces with 12 ambassador locations including Wakodahatchee Wetlands, Green Cay Nature Center, Lion Country Safari, Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, Okeeheelee Nature Center, Wellington Environmental Preserve, Peaceful Waters Sanctuary, Daggerwing Nature Center, Riverbend Park, Epiphany Lutheran Church, and Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Stations 25 and 27, Conservation partnerships include Palm Beach County Water Utilities Department, Village of Wellington and Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation. Together they are making a difference in increasing a declining population by providing suitable breeding habitats for these native songbirds

Grassy Water Preserve Restoration Hike
2026-04-25 07:30 - 10:30 | Grassy Waters Preserve, 8264 Northlake Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL, 33412, United States
Join Cindy Bush and Scott Zucker as we go off the beaten path and behind the scenes at Grassy Waters Preserve.

Join Cindy Bush and Scott Zucker in this hike to celebrate National Birding day. This is an amazing opportunity to explore different ecosystems, including wetlands, forested hammocks, and tree islands, expecting to spot species such as the swallow-tailed kite, wood stork, great blue heron, white-tailed deer, otter, bob cat, and alligator. We will meet at the parking lot at the nature center and will then explore the beautiful scenes that Grassy Waters Preserve has to offer us.
Logistics:

Meet Up: Meet in the nature center parking lot for check-in and Grassy Waters Preserve waivers. We will then car pool to the location.
Restrooms: Available in/near the nature center
7:30 am – 11:30 am, Event lasts: 4 hours

Bring:

Water
Sunscreen
Bug spray
Hat
Binoculars
Camera
Smart phone

Good to Know:

Registration is required. No walk-ins
Limited Group Size: To ensure a personalized and enriching experience, group size is limited.
Be on time so we can make the most of our time in the field.
Rain or shine, unless there’s a hurricane.
Photos may be taken for social media. Let us know if you’d rather not be included.
Please cancel if you can’t make it—someone else may be waiting.
Under 18? Bring an adult.

Accessibility Information:

Parking: Some accessible parking available at the Nature Center
Restrooms: Accessible restrooms located near and inside the Nature Center.
Benches: Benches are available for resting at the visitor center and at the start of the Marsh Trail.
Surface: Boardwalk and flat grassy surface with some roots and bumps.
Cell Phone Service: Cell service may be intermittent on the trail.

Photography and Consent:
Photographs are a wonderful way to capture the beauty and fun of our birding adventures. We encourage photographers to take photos for their personal use and enjoyment. If you would like to share your photographs with us, please ensure your name is watermarked on the images.
By signing the AE consent, you agree to having your photo taken during our trips and used on our social media pages. If you prefer not to have your photo taken, please contact us at fieldtrips@auduboneverglades.org prior to the event.
We strive to host inclusive, accessible events. For those who need an accommodation or have inquiries about accessibility, please contact Autumn at fieldtrips@auduboneverglades.org
Questions? Reach out: fieldtrips@auduboneverglades.org
