Hiking two more trails was the reason for our second visit to Werner-Boyce State Park (along the Gulf Coast north of Tampa). Near the main parking lot is Eagle Trail, a short hike that leads to the nest of a pair of bald eagles.
A park ranger had told us that a drone (unauthorized) flew over the eagles’ nest causing them to abandon it. There had, however, been some recent sightings of the pair, so we were hoping we would be lucky enough to see them.
The trail is well-marked. And an egret was looking for a snack in shallow water. A small lake with a bench (to enjoy the view) is located a short distance down the trail.
Sure enough, we did see just one eagle in the nest. A large area around the nest is restricted so the photos below were taken from about 400’ away and are not that great. But I swear, that bird turned and looked directly at me when I focused in on him!
This pair (normally) live year-round in this park, although some migrate through various Florida State Parks annually. Large trees are needed to support their large (2,000 lbs) nests, as is a nearby body of water with enough fish to sustain wildlife in the area.
A kiosk at the viewing area provides interesting facts about our majestic national bird:
- The pesticide, DDT, caused the eagle to become endangered; changes in environmental laws has reversed the trend
- Their talons are strong enough to puncture Kevlar (wow!)
- They are found in 49 of the 50 states (who knew?)
Retracing our steps on the Eagle Trail, we hopped in the car to drive to the Black Rail Trailhead (several miles away in another section of the state park). There is a parking area near a kiosk where the trail starts.
The Black Rail Trail is a 1.5-mile, loop trail, through lighted wooded areas as well as salt marshes of the Gulf of Mexico.
Expect to come across some wet/muddy areas; and, insect repellant to a good thing to have with you! Leashed pets are permitted, so our sweet girl, Sadie, had a blast sniffing everything in sight.
When we returned to the picnic shelter, we came upon this pet bird (cannot recall what kind he is). Also near the shelter is a roped -off area to protect a gopher tortoise and his burrow. We were hoping to see one in the park, but, alas, did not.
Another lovely afternoon hiking with our doggie. It doesn’t get much better than that!
For more information about the Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park, check out the earlier post on this blog, www.windsofdestiny-rvlife.blogspot.com/2019/03/hiking-at-werner-boyce-salt-springs_21.html.
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