Florida Birding/wildlife spots?

Hi - I'm from the PNW forum.

I'll be visiting my parents in Florida the last 2 weeks of January. Ill have a week after on my own, just me and my D300/500 mm. :-)

I'll be driving from the Ft Lauderdale area to Orlando, and back.
Suggestions for good bird places, or wildlife in general, please?

thanks!
Sandy R

Well, it's stretch, but you might cross over to the Gulf Coast and try the "Ding Darling" nature preserve on Sanibel Island. You can find them on the internet and call to see what birds will be there this time of year. Here is what I found there in 10/07:
http://www.southeasternphotography.com/gallery/3666673

Good luck, Happy Shooting, and Merry Christmas!
Troup Nightingale

Sandy, you'll be in my backyard.

The last week of January, I'll be gone to Moab, but I'll be here until January 28.

You definitely want to get to Wakodahatchee, Loxahatchee, and Green Cay wetlands. All three are within 20 minutes of my house.

I'll be happy to show you all of them. Please give me a call or send me a note if you want to plan something. 561-945-2074.

Sandy

I know very little about Florida but I had a great day at Orlando Wetlands Park during the month of May.
http://www.nbbd.com/godo/orlandowetlands/
I saw Nesting hawks, osprey and eagles. Also cormorants, waders, otter, gators, raccoon.
Not sure what you will find in winter.
Next time I get to Orlando, I will definitely go back to this place.

It's located on Hwy 50 about 25 miles east of Orlando near Christmas, FL

buzz across to the gulf and spend a morning at the Venice rookery,it is a magical place.

If you get tired of taking bird photos while in the Boca/Delray area go over to the Morikami Japanese Gardens and the Headquarters of the Am. Orchid Soc. which are close by.