Escape the British winter for Florida sunshine and discover the wide variety of birdlife inhabiting the sub-tropical Sunshine State’s woodlands, wetlands and saw-grass prairies on Naturetrek’s 9-day birding tour, departing London 16th February 2007.

After visiting local birding sites around Orlando, journey to Cocoa Beach, exploring the lakes and prairies between Kissimmee and Lake Okeechobee, searching for the endangered Snail (Everglade) Kite, the unique Limpkin and the recently introduced Whooping Crane among others. At dusk there is even a chance of spotting the elusive and endangered Red-cockaded Woodpecker. Next day on Merritt Island, the security needs of Cape Canaveral have protected a huge area of coastal swamp, bays, strands and inlets. This sanctuary is now inhabited by a large and varied avian population, including Florida Scrub Jay, many water-birds, Bald Eagle and other birds of prey. Later, observe numerous over-wintering warblers sheltering amongst copses of trees south of Orlando. Other sites visited include Sanibel Island, Ding Darling Reserve and Corkscrew Swamp from where the Magnificent Frigate Bird can be spotted out at sea. Head east on the Tamiami Trail, traveling through Big Cypress NP and the Everglades NP where 78 miles of swamp is explored by hover boat, observing further species including Swainson’s Hawk and American Bittern. Around the ‘Homestead’ area, some of Florida’s exotic species are to be found, including introduced parrots (68 species are now recorded), and the Burrowing Owl which continues to adapt to new environments by taking to the golf courses! So, cameras at the ready - birds in Florida are often incredibly tame and great close-ups are possible for both beginner and experienced photographers.

The tour costs £1,195 p/p including scheduled flights, accommodation in motels, transport and expertly guided birdwatching.