Kayaking tour to view Florida’s Wild Birds and other wildlife in the Thousand Island area of Cocoa Beach, Florida.
Discover Florida’s Wild Birds from a Kayak
Each paddle stroke takes you closer to Florida’s varied bird life while kayaking. These waters are home to several Florida bird species, some well-known and some less so. Expect to encounter herons and egrets, but also the limpkin, a bird famed for its eerie call that echoes across the wetlands. See these distinctive species from a kayak to view Florida’s birds quietly and respectfully.
Little-Known Behaviors of Florida’s Bird Species
Some bird habits are hard to spot without a kayak. Anhingas, sometimes mistaken for cormorants, lack waterproof feathers and spread their wings to dry in the sun after diving for fish. Kayakers can sneak up on these birds as they stretch and take up the sun. Kayakers can see the roseate spoonbill, with its bright pink feathers, stir up shallow water with its spoon-shaped bill to find food.
The Kayak Advantage: Birdwatching with Minimal Impact
Kayaking is a great way to birdwatch since you may float silently into locations inaccessible by foot or powered boat. This method lets you watch birds in their natural habitat without disturbing them. Osprey nests are commonly placed atop channel markers or tall trees along the water, and kayakers can get close enough to see these amazing birds of prey swoop down to grab fish, a powerful sight best enjoyed in solitude.
Kayaking Etiquette for Birdwatchers
When kayaking among Florida’s wild birds, respect their space and follow birding etiquette. Stop stressing nesting birds by paddling slowly and giving them space. You may enjoy birdwatching without getting too close using binoculars and a bird identification guide. Practice thoughtful paddling to make these meetings respectful and memorable.
Fun fact for Kayaing With Wild Birds
- Limpkin Calls: Limpkins have a distinct, haunting call that can often be heard echoing through Florida’s wetlands, especially at dawn or dusk.
- Anhinga Wing-Drying: Anhingas, often seen with wings spread wide, lack waterproof feathers. After diving, they must sunbathe to dry off before flying again.
- Roseate Spoonbill’s Unique Feeding Style: The roseate spoonbill uses its spoon-shaped bill to sift through shallow waters, a behavior kayakers can easily observe up close.
- Osprey Nests on Channel Markers: Ospreys frequently build nests atop channel markers or tall trees near the water, providing kayakers a perfect vantage point to watch these birds dive for fish.
- Herons and Egrets Hunting Techniques: Great blue herons and snowy egrets often use slow, calculated movements when hunting, allowing them to surprise prey, a behavior easily spotted from a kayak.
- Quiet Approach Advantage: Kayaks allow birdwatchers to glide silently through the water, reducing disturbance and making it easier to see birds up close in their natural behaviors.
- Mangrove Cuckoo Sightings: Rare and elusive, the mangrove cuckoo is a thrilling find for kayakers exploring mangrove tunnels and marshy areas, as it’s rarely seen from the shore.
