Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) is part of the Cape Canaveral – John F. Kennedy Space Center complex.  The Refuge is quite large, spanning over 500 square kilometers.  It contains a number of different habitats, ranging from seashore to marshlands to lush forest.  As a result, there are a number of bird and animal species to view and photograph.

Location

The Wildlife Refuge is located on the east coast of Florida, on the outskirts of the city of Titusville.  It is accessible via a number of entrances.  The main entrance is located off of I-95 via Route 406.  So, this will take you through Titusville, along the Max Brewer Memorial Parkway, and into the Refuge.

Hours of Operation

Gates open at sunrise, and close at sunset.  The visitor center is open from 9am to 4pm daily.

Entrance Fees

The last couple of times I was there, entrance was free.  Generally, I go the third week of February, which corresponds to President’s day.  At other times, the fees are reasonable at $5 per day per car.  Please keep in mind that the rate can vary depending on the size of your vehicle.  Check the Refuge’s webpage, read the signs, or talk with the park Rangers, for further information.

Weather

The weather is reasonable in the park, pretty much all year.  Average temperatures range from a low of 10 degrees (Celsius) in January, to a high of 30 degrees (Celsius) in August.  But, check your favorite weather website for specifics.

Size

As mentioned, the Merritt Island NWR is huge.  So, you’ll have to drive to the various attractions located within.  Some, you will simply view from your vehicle, others will require you to get out and walk.

Roadways

The majority of roadways are paved, and in good condition.  The Refuge also has a number of gravel roads.  Some are well groomed, others are not.  In my experience, the best photo opportunities are often located down the ones that are not.  For these, a 4-wheel drive vehicle is invaluable.

Finally, use caution when exploring remote locations.  you’ll find alligators and snakes in most areas.  Often closer than you think.  As an example, I had waded out into a shallow pond in order to get some shots of a Great White Egret.  I got the shots I wanted.  But as I turned to exit the pond, I noticed a number of six to eight foot Alligators sunning themselves on the beach about 20 meters to my right.  I had not seen them on my way in.  And while an Alligator is unlikely to attack you out-of-the-blue, stepping on one that is submerged could be dangerous.

Plants and Animals

Merritt Island is home to a large number of bird and animal species.  I have personally photographed many of them.  Along the seashore, you will find Osprey, Ring-Billed Gulls, White Pelicans, Brown Pelicans, and Killdeers.  In the marshlands, you will find Alligators, Armadillos, Little Blue Herons, White Ibis, Great White Egrets, Snowy Egrets, Great Blue Herons, Tri-Colored Herons, American Coots, and Wood Storks.   In the lush forest areas, you will find Wild Pigs, Bald Eagles, and Red-Shouldered Hawks.  Most can be photographed with modest equipment.  You simply have to have the desire to go looking for them.

Areas of Note

In terms of specific areas, I have found Black Point Drive to be the most productive.  It offers a combination of open water, wet grasslands, and marshlands that attracts a lot of different species.  The seashore is also productive, and the gravel road that heads north between the main entrance and the Kennedy Parkway.  In these spots, the wildlife is accustomed to vehicle traffic, and will sit very close to the road.  Take care though.  Sharp noises, such as your car door closing, can scare them away.

And lastly, there is an area where you can view Manatee in their natural habitat.  But, I have never seen one here, and I have been to this area several times.

Conclusion

To summarize, Merritt Island NWR is a great place to photograph wildlife.  There are a number of different habitats available, each offering a unique adventure.  Take your time, and enjoy some of the best photo opportunities that Florida has to offer.