Forest birding habitat

Ferndale Preserve

Florida · Southeast

Habitat
ForestWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Ferndale Preserve is a productive birding destination in Florida, with 209 species recorded on eBird. This forest and wetland habitat attracts Double-crested Cormorant, American Crow, and Red-winged Blackbird among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

Location

Loading map...

Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

White-faced Ibis

Plegadis chihi

6/2/2026Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive2 observed

Black Tern

Chlidonias niger

6/2/2026Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive1 observed

Mississippi Kite

Ictinia mississippiensis

6/1/2026Sand Lake1 observed

Canvasback

Aythya valisineria

5/31/2026Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive1 observed

Tree Swallow

Tachycineta bicolor

5/31/2026Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive1 observed

Cave Swallow

Petrochelidon fulva

5/31/2026Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive1 observed

Sora

Porzana carolina

5/31/2026Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive1 observed

Prothonotary Warbler

Protonotaria citrea

5/30/2026Wekiva island and river2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Red-tailed Hawk

16/1/2026

Common Ground Dove

15/31/2026

Mourning Dove

25/31/2026

Chimney Swift

25/31/2026

Sandhill Crane

25/31/2026

White Ibis

25/31/2026

Black Vulture

15/31/2026

Osprey

15/31/2026

Swallow-tailed Kite

25/31/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

25/31/2026

Downy Woodpecker

15/31/2026

Blue Jay

15/31/2026

American Crow

25/31/2026

Tufted Titmouse

25/31/2026

Carolina Wren

15/31/2026

Common Grackle

15/31/2026

Northern Parula

25/31/2026

Summer Tanager

15/31/2026

Northern Cardinal

15/31/2026

Great Egret

15/31/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  3. 3

    Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Ferndale Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Ferndale Preserve for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Ferndale Preserve?
Notable species at Ferndale Preserve include Double-crested Cormorant, American Crow, Red-winged Blackbird, Mourning Dove, Common Gallinule. The area supports forest, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Ferndale Preserve?
Birding at Ferndale Preserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Ferndale Preserve?
Ferndale Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.