6 Native Birds Active Older Adults Can Spot Around Jacksonville

Bird-watching is a relaxing, engaging, and rewarding activity that many active older adults enjoy. It offers an opportunity to connect with nature and experience the thrill of spotting native birds in their natural habitat. Jacksonville’s prime location along the Atlantic Flyway, with its diverse habitats and moderate temperatures, makes the area a veritable hotspot for bird enthusiasts. In addition, Fleet Landing at Atlantic Beach’s close proximity to nature reserves and coastal areas provides an excellent base for memorable avian adventures.

The Joy of Bird-Watching for Active Older Adults

Bird-watching offers a blend of physical, mental, and social benefits that contribute to overall wellness:

• Physical Benefits:
  Enjoy nature while engaging in gentle exercise as you wander scenic trails. Light walks not only improve mobility and balance but also provide an opportunity to absorb natural vitamin D from the sun, which is beneficial for the body.
• Mental Benefits:
  Spending time in nature induces a sense of calm that can lower stress and anxiety. Studies have linked time outdoors with enhanced mood, improved focus, sharper memory, and better cognitive functioning.
• Social Benefits:
  Bird-watching is ideal for group outings, where like-minded enthusiasts come together to share discoveries and exchange tips. Fleet Landing staff members organize trips and clubs that support Residents’ interest in bird-watching, offering a welcoming environment for social connection and shared experiences.

6 Birds Commonly Found in the Jacksonville Area

Jacksonville’s varied habitats host a range of fascinating bird species. Here are six native birds that add extra charm to any birding outing:

• Great Egret (Ardea alba):
  This large, elegant wading bird is typically found in wetlands and along Jacksonville’s waterways. Known for its striking white plumage, the Great Egret once nearly faced extinction in the 1800s.
• Boat-tailed Grackle (Quiscalus major):
  Recognizable by its glossy black feathers and varied call, this adaptable bird frequents marshes, urban parks, and even parking lots, often gathering in large communal roosts.
• Osprey (Pandion haliaetus):
  Often called the “sea hawk,” the Osprey is a common sight near Jacksonville’s beaches and coastal waterways. Its remarkable fishing ability involves diving from considerable heights to capture prey.
• Royal Tern (Thalasseus maximus):
  This sleek seabird, with its distinctive orange bill and shaggy black crest, is frequently seen diving for fish or resting in flocks on sandy beaches. Its loud, grating call and social nature add to its appeal.
• Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis):
  A familiar coastal resident, the Brown Pelican is known for its distinctive bill and throat pouch. It often glides low over the waves or plunges into the water in pursuit of fish.
• Black Skimmer (Rynchops niger):
  With a striking red-and-black bill, the Black Skimmer uses a unique foraging technique by skimming the water’s surface to catch fish, setting it apart from other birds.

Bird-Watching Spots Near Fleet Landing Atlantic Beach

Jacksonville offers a wealth of natural settings perfect for bird-watching. Notable locations include:

• Kathryn Hanna Park:
  Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is a public beach and city park in Jacksonville, just a few blocks from Fleet Landing Atlantic Beach. Its beaches, freshwater lake, and nature trails attract many native species.
• Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve:
  This expansive preserve features coastal wetlands, dunes, salt marshes, and hardwood forests, providing ideal habitats for a variety of birds while also offering a rich cultural history.
• Little Talbot Island State Park:
  A secluded barrier island with pristine, undeveloped beaches and ancient dunes, this park serves as a nesting and rearing site for many shorebirds during their migratory journeys.
• Big Talbot Island State Park:
  Known for its maritime forest, salt marsh grasslands, and extensive shoreline, this park is one of the most ecologically productive areas in the region. It also offers excellent opportunities for photography.
• Fort Caroline National Memorial:
  Situated along the St. Johns River and part of the Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve, this historic site features open green spaces that attract both migratory and local bird species.
• Fleet Landing Atlantic Beach Campus:
  The well-maintained walking paths and green spaces on the 125-acre Campus provide residents with plenty of opportunities to enjoy bird-watching. In addition, a live osprey webcam offers a unique way to observe local bird activity from home.

Local Activities and Resources for Bird Enthusiasts

Many Residents share a passion for bird-watching, and Fleet Landing supports this interest through organized programs and Resident-led clubs. To further enhance your bird-watching experience, consider these helpful resources:

• Field Guides:
  Choose guides specific to Florida birds, which include detailed illustrations and behavioral notes. For example, the Birds of Florida Field Guide by Stan Tekiela is a popular option.
• Birding Apps:
  Technology can simplify the birding experience. Apps such as Merlin Bird ID and eBird provide photos, sounds, maps, and real-time updates, making it easier to identify and log sightings.
• Binoculars for Active Older Adults:
  Select binoculars that are lightweight, offer extra-long eye relief, and provide a wider field of vision. These features help accommodate vision challenges and provide comfort during extended bird-watching sessions.

Celebrate the Beauty of Bird-Watching

Bird-watching is a low-impact activity that connects you with nature and enriches daily life. Whether you are exploring scenic trails, joining a Resident-led club, or simply enjoying the serene beauty of Jacksonville’s natural habitats, this pastime offers endless opportunities for discovery. Fleet Landing’s WELLInspired™ program encourages a balanced lifestyle that nurtures physical, mental, and social well-being.

To learn more about the abundant experiences available at Fleet Landing Atlantic Beach, please call 904.748.2252 to schedule a visit. Embrace the beauty of bird-watching and discover the natural wonders that await around Jacksonville.