If you’re like me, there are times you’re looking for warmth only the great winter escape can bring.  Don’t get me wrong, I love Canada. I was born and raised in Winnipeg (I now live in Ottawa), so I’ve learned to “appreciate” winter.  But there are times when I feel the chill in my bones, and need to get away to someplace warm.  My choice is Florida.

Photography Mecca

I first heard about Florida through friends.  They indicated that it’s one of the best places in North America to photograph wildlife, in particular birds.  I couldn’t agree more.  There’s a saying, “If you can’t get a great bird picture in Florida, you shouldn’t have a camera!”.  I’ve found this to be remarkably true.  The birds are literally in the ditches along the roads.  It’s incredible!

February Trip

So each February, I make the long drive from Ottawa, to the great winter escape, a sunny destination in Florida.  There are wildlife viewing opportunities in Florida all year around, but I like February because it gives me a break from the cold temperatures of Ottawa, and the weather is simply perfect.

In my experience, the weather is pretty consistent during February.  The highs are generally in the mid-twenties (Celsius), and overnight lows in the mid-teens (Celsius).  There is some variation depending on the location.  Check your favorite weather website for specifics.

Locations

There are literally hundreds of wildlife locations in Florida.  Here are some examples:

• St. Mark’s National Wildlife Refuge (Tallahassee area)
• Augustine’s Alligator Farm (Jacksonville area)
• Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge (Titusville area)
• Gatorland (Orlando area)
• Everglades National Park (Miami area)
• Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge (Fort Myers area)
• Fort De Soto Park (Tampa area)

Each offers an interesting experience with many possible roads and walking trails.  So, check out the Internet, and dedicated websites, for more information.

Insects

I haven’t found bug spray to be needed. The temperatures are generally cooler at night, so insects like mosquitoes don’t get a chance to breed.  Also, I haven’t needed sunscreen, even with fair skin like mine.  I always have both with me though, just in case …

Clothes

I tend to wear t-shirts and long pants when in the bush because I have had both Poison Ivy and Poison Oak in the past.  I wouldn’t wish either on anybody.  Color-wise, I use camouflage, in an effort to be less conspicuous to wildlife.  It works.  Failing that, dark, earth-tones will work best.  Please keep in mind that birds generally have great eyesight.  Bright colors stick out like a sore thumb.

Restrooms

Most of the locations I have visited provide washrooms, but this could be as simple as a portable outhouse.  Some have information centers and restaurants.  Do yourself a favor and take advantage of them.  They have a lot to offer.

Roadways

Roadways are generally good, but the best photography spots are often down goat trails that require 4-wheel drive vehicles to traverse.  Some of the bigger places have groomed or paved “nature” paths/drives so that all may enjoy during a leisurely walk, or from the comfort of their car.

And finally, exercise caution when exploring remote locations.  Alligators and snakes can be found in most areas, even as close as the roadside ditches.  And while neither is likely to attack you out-of-the-blue, provoking or stepping on one, could be dangerous.

Entrance Fees

Entrance fees are not outrageous.  In my experience, the average is about $5 per day per car.  Some places have weekly rates.  Check the location’s webpage, read the signs, or talk with the park Rangers for further information.

Accommodation

Accommodation has a fair amount of variation.  You can find a room for as little as $500US for a week, to well over $2000US per week.  It really depends on where you stay, and the amenities.  Check websites like Booking.com and Expedia.com for deals.  Try to have your reservations done early though, as the rooms fill up quickly.

Dining

Dining and night life also varies from location to location.  Strictly speaking, neither is particularly good near the best wildlife areas.  The reason, the animals can be found in remote locations, away from people.  It’s not that these things can’t be had.  But rather, it simply means that you might have to travel a little farther to find what you are after.

People

You will see and meet people from many walks of life in the  great winter escape.  Some are there for the wildlife.  Others are there to enjoy being out in nature.  I have met folks from as far as Germany, lots of fellow Canadians, and of course many friendly Americans.  Whoever you happen to come across, please be respectful.  Save your conversations until you are back at the parking lot.  Loud noises and talk can frighten wildlife, and potentially ruin the moment for everyone involved.

Conclusion

To summarize, Florida can be a great place for the great winter escape.  Focus on photographing wildlife as  there are a number of different habitats available, each offering unique experiences.  But don’t expect to see everything in one trip.  There is simply too much.  My advice, pick an area of interest, determine four or five sites in that area, and devote a day to each.  You won’t be disappointed.