Coastal birding habitat

Lake Apopka North Shore - Clay Island Loop Trail

Florida · Southeast

Habitat
CoastalLake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Lake Apopka North Shore - Clay Island Loop Trail is a productive birding destination in Florida, with 211 species recorded on eBird. This coastal and lake habitat attracts Common Ground Dove, Anhinga, and Little Blue Heron among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

Location

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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 Drive1 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

Snail Kite

Rostrhamus sociabilis

5/31/2026Emeralda Marsh CA--Wildlife Drive Exit Parking Lot1 observed

Sora

Porzana carolina

5/31/2026Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Black-bellied Whistling-Duck

105/25/2026

Mourning Dove

35/25/2026

Common Gallinule

115/25/2026

Purple Gallinule

15/25/2026

Black-necked Stilt

25/25/2026

Glossy Ibis

45/25/2026

Tricolored Heron

15/25/2026

Green Heron

25/25/2026

Great Egret

45/25/2026

Great Blue Heron

15/25/2026

Turkey Vulture

15/25/2026

Osprey

15/25/2026

Blue Jay

15/25/2026

Fish Crow

15/25/2026

Tufted Titmouse

25/25/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

175/25/2026

Boat-tailed Grackle

175/25/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Lake Apopka North Shore - Clay Island Loop Trail for birding?
The best months to visit Lake Apopka North Shore - Clay Island Loop Trail for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Lake Apopka North Shore - Clay Island Loop Trail?
Notable species at Lake Apopka North Shore - Clay Island Loop Trail include Common Ground Dove, Anhinga, Little Blue Heron, Great Blue Heron, Black Vulture. The area supports coastal, lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Lake Apopka North Shore - Clay Island Loop Trail?
Birding at Lake Apopka North Shore - Clay Island Loop Trail is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Lake Apopka North Shore - Clay Island Loop Trail?
Lake Apopka North Shore - Clay Island Loop Trail offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.