Gearing Up for Fantastic Wildlife Watching in the Greater Orlando Area

As an Orlando local and avid wildlife enthusiast, I couldn’t be more thrilled about the abundance of animal spotting opportunities. Whether you’re just getting into the hobby or you’ve been a wildlife watcher for years, there’s no shortage of awesome critters to keep you entertained. Whether it’s on land or sea, there’s plenty of amazing wildlife that make Orlando a unique and exciting destination. Let’s take a look at all the fantastic animal-spotting opportunities that the area has to offer.

Getting Outfitted for a Wildlife Adventure

Before we can even consider getting out on the trails and waterways of Orlando, we need to make sure that we’re properly outfitted for the job. As wildlife watchers, we like to be as stealthy and unobtrusive as possible. To best achieve this, here are some awesome gadgets to consider:

• Binoculars: First and foremost, binoculars are our most important tool of the trade. There’s no better way to witness nature in action than from a distance. Choose a pair that’s light in weight and has a good magnification strength.
• Telephoto Lens: For those of us who prefer to get up close and personal to our animal friends, a telephoto lens is a must-have. You’ll be able to zoom in on details that may be otherwise missed in the naked eye.
• Tripod: To keep your camera steady and your images sharp, grab yourself a tripod. This is especially important when trying to photograph birds in flight or aquatic life from afar.
• Field Guide: Of course, you’ll also want to make sure you have a reliable field guide to identify what you see. This is especially helpful if you spot something unfamiliar and need a quick reference.

Now that our gear is all in order, let’s get to the fun part: spotting the wildlife. One of the many perks of living in the Orlando area is being surrounded by lush natural areas and a variety of species. Let’s take a look at a few of the best local spots to peep critters.

Wildlife Spotting on Land

• Lake Louisa State park: Located in nearby Clermont, Lake Louisa State park is a 24-hour haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether it’s birdwatching, hiking, biking, camping, or just spending time in nature, you’re sure to see plenty of wildlife here. Lake Louisa is home to a variety of critters, including turtles, wild turkey, and even black bears!
• Forever Florida: Make your way to Brevard County and explore the many unique habitats that make up Forever Florida. This wildlife park is home to a variety of native species, including the endangered Florida panther, Florida black bear, and sandhill crane.
• Blue Cypress Conservation Area: Just an hour-and-a-half outside of Orlando lies Blue Cypress Conservation Area. Here, you’ll find a variety of birds, alligators, turtles, and even stragglers like bobcats and river otters. And be sure to keep an eye out for the West Indian manatees that frequent the area seasonally.

Of course, it wouldn’t be an Orlando wildlife tour without exploring the marine life that the area has to offer. Here are a few must-visit spots for those who wish to explore our underwater world.

Wildlife Spotting Under the Sea

• Wekiva Island: Wekiva Island lies in the heart of the Wekiva River, just 30 minutes north of Orlando. Whether you take a guided boat tour, snorkel, or take a dip in the salty springs, you’re sure to spot some cool aquatic life. Glimpse everything from seahorses and jellyfish to manatees and mullet fish!
• Blue Spring State park: Located in Orange City, Blue Spring State park is the perfect spot to get up close and personal with gentle manatees. Come around during the winter months between November and late March to witness the impressive aggregation of the West Indian manatees.
• Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge: Come to Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge to witness five distinct habitats encompassing more than 140,000 acres of natural beauty. From boggy marshes to saline swamps to sunny beaches, the refuge is home to more than 1,500 species of animals and birds.

Wrapping Up

As you can clearly see, the greater Orlando area is bursting with amazing wildlife watching opportunities. From land to sea, you’re sure to have a ton of fun spotting a variety of species. So grab your gear, and let’s get out into nature and enjoy the beauty of the greater Orlando area. Happy wildlife watching!

Orlando Theme Park Ticket Discounts up to 65% OFF

• Universal Studios Deal Discount
• Island of adventures Deal Discount
• SeaWorld Orlando Deal Discount
• Busch gardens Tampa Deal Discount
• Water Park Deal Discount
• Disney World Deals Discount
• Orlando Theme Park tickets Deal Discount