Above: Snowy Egret, by Dan Vickers.
SAint Marks and the Florida Panhandle
February 6 to 8, 2026
Roseate Spoonbill, by Tom Wilson.
Birds Georgia Guides: Sheridan Alford and Gabe Andrle
Group Size: Limited to 16 participants
Virtual Pre-trip Workshop via Zoom meeting: Wednesday, January 28, at 7:00 PM
Registration:
Join Sheridan Alford and Gabe Andrle for a two and a half day trip exploring St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge and surrounding areas in the Florida Panhandle.
Established in 1931 to provide wintering habitat for migratory birds, St. Marks NWR is one of the oldest refuges in the National Wildlife Refuge System. This Globally Important Bird Area encompasses more than 70,000 acres of coastal marshes, islands, tidal creeks and estuaries of seven north Florida rivers, supporting a diverse community of plant and animal life, including more than 300 species of birds. In addition to large numbers of wintering waterfowl and shorebirds, we expect to see beautiful wading birds like Roseate Spoonbills, nesting Bald Eagles, and possibly even Red-cockaded Woodpeckers. In recent years, the refuge has also provided a winter home for rarities like Vermilion Flycatchers and Red-throated Loons.
Weather dependent, we have a chance to join local researchers on a nighttime survey for rails. We’ll also explore Wakulla Springs State Park, including a short riverboat tour of the world’s largest and deepest freshwater springs. This wildlife viewing trip among majestic bald cypress trees offers great looks at waterfowl and wading birds, as well alligators, turtles, and possibly otters and manatees. We will also spend some time at Bald Point State Park for additional opportunities to view shorebirds, rails, and overwintering songbirds.
For more information, please e-mail Sheridan Alford.
Group Size: Limited to 16 participants
Virtual Pre-trip Workshop via Zoom meeting: Wednesday, January 28, at 7:00 PM
Registration:
- Birds Georgia Members: $400 per person
- Non-members: $460 per person (includes a one-year Birds Georgia membership)
Join Sheridan Alford and Gabe Andrle for a two and a half day trip exploring St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge and surrounding areas in the Florida Panhandle.
Established in 1931 to provide wintering habitat for migratory birds, St. Marks NWR is one of the oldest refuges in the National Wildlife Refuge System. This Globally Important Bird Area encompasses more than 70,000 acres of coastal marshes, islands, tidal creeks and estuaries of seven north Florida rivers, supporting a diverse community of plant and animal life, including more than 300 species of birds. In addition to large numbers of wintering waterfowl and shorebirds, we expect to see beautiful wading birds like Roseate Spoonbills, nesting Bald Eagles, and possibly even Red-cockaded Woodpeckers. In recent years, the refuge has also provided a winter home for rarities like Vermilion Flycatchers and Red-throated Loons.
Weather dependent, we have a chance to join local researchers on a nighttime survey for rails. We’ll also explore Wakulla Springs State Park, including a short riverboat tour of the world’s largest and deepest freshwater springs. This wildlife viewing trip among majestic bald cypress trees offers great looks at waterfowl and wading birds, as well alligators, turtles, and possibly otters and manatees. We will also spend some time at Bald Point State Park for additional opportunities to view shorebirds, rails, and overwintering songbirds.
For more information, please e-mail Sheridan Alford.
Leadership Giving Circle members receive exclusive benefits, including early access to our travel program registration, discounts on store purchases, and access to special Leadership Circle trips.
To learn more, visit our Leadership Giving Circle page.
To learn more, visit our Leadership Giving Circle page.
This trip is now full. Please join the wait list below. We will contact you if a space opens and will collect your payment at that time.
Please Note: Credit card processing fees are included in the registration price.
itinerary
Day 0 (Thursday, February 5) Arrival
Check into the hotel. Optional group dinner at 7 pm on your own at a pre-determined restaurant.
Day 1 (Friday, February 6) St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge
We’ll spend most of the day exploring the diverse habitats of St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. Our morning will begin along Lighthouse Road, where marshes and ponds are rich with wintering waterfowl, wading birds, and sparrows. Expect close looks at herons, egrets, ibis, and a variety of ducks, as well as raptors like Northern Harriers and Bald Eagles patrolling the skies.
By midday, we’ll shift into the refuge’s wooded trails in search of woodpeckers, warblers, and songbirds. We’ll break for a picnic lunch at the refuge or grab a quick bite in town before returning to birding.
After lunch, we'll continue our exploration of St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, focusing on different loops and units within the National Wildlife Refuge. Stops may include Headquarters Pond, Tower Pond, or the South Levee Trail, each offering unique opportunities for ducks, wading birds, sparrows, and raptors. These quieter corners of the refuge often provide excellent looks at species like Black-crowned Night-Herons, Red-shouldered Hawks, and a variety of wintering shorebirds.
The evening is free, with an optional informal group dinner at Outz’s Too, a local favorite known for its laid-back atmosphere and fresh seafood.
By midday, we’ll shift into the refuge’s wooded trails in search of woodpeckers, warblers, and songbirds. We’ll break for a picnic lunch at the refuge or grab a quick bite in town before returning to birding.
After lunch, we'll continue our exploration of St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, focusing on different loops and units within the National Wildlife Refuge. Stops may include Headquarters Pond, Tower Pond, or the South Levee Trail, each offering unique opportunities for ducks, wading birds, sparrows, and raptors. These quieter corners of the refuge often provide excellent looks at species like Black-crowned Night-Herons, Red-shouldered Hawks, and a variety of wintering shorebirds.
The evening is free, with an optional informal group dinner at Outz’s Too, a local favorite known for its laid-back atmosphere and fresh seafood.
Day 2 (Saturday, February 7): Walkulla Springs Boat Tour & Surrounding Hotspot
We’ll head to the coast for the sunrise at Bottoms Road and spend time birding there and nearby hotspots, including Bald Point State Park and Mashes Sands, prime locations for shorebirds, seabirds, rails, and coastal specialties. Depending on time, we may also explore Ochlocknee River State Park.
We’ll then enjoy a sit-down lunch at the historic Lodge at Wakulla Springs, where classic Southern dishes are served in a scenic setting. After lunch, we’ll spend a few hours exploring the wooded trails at Wakulla Springs.
In the afternoon, we’ll experience one of the highlights of the trip: the Wakulla Springs guided boat tour (3:30 PM departure). From the comfort of the riverboat, we’ll watch for Limpkins, Anhingas, herons, and kingfishers, along with the possibility of seeing manatees in the spring-fed waters.
We’ll close out the evening with a group dinner near Tallahassee, where we’ll share a trip tally of the species we’ve observed so far.
We’ll then enjoy a sit-down lunch at the historic Lodge at Wakulla Springs, where classic Southern dishes are served in a scenic setting. After lunch, we’ll spend a few hours exploring the wooded trails at Wakulla Springs.
In the afternoon, we’ll experience one of the highlights of the trip: the Wakulla Springs guided boat tour (3:30 PM departure). From the comfort of the riverboat, we’ll watch for Limpkins, Anhingas, herons, and kingfishers, along with the possibility of seeing manatees in the spring-fed waters.
We’ll close out the evening with a group dinner near Tallahassee, where we’ll share a trip tally of the species we’ve observed so far.
Day 3 (Sunday, February 8):
On our way back north, we will stop at Tall Timbers for a morning of birding and learning about the bird research taking place on upland pineywood species such as Bachman’s Sparrow, Red-cockaded Woodpeckers, and Brown-headed Nuthatches.
additional information
Price Includes:
Price does not include:
Lodging Information:
Birds Georgia will reserve a block of rooms at the Best Western Wakulla Springs for those interested in reserving a room at the group rate. We will share this information with participants soon. The Best Western Wakulla Springs provides basic and clean accommodations, including an in-room mini fridge and coffee maker, as well as a complimentary breakfast. Participants who desire more amenities may want to consider other private rental units in the area, such as houses and condos, through providers like VRBO, Airbnb, private rental companies, etc. Please contact us with any questions about lodging.
Meals:
Meals are on your own for this trip. There are many excellent seafood and other restaurants in and around the area, but most of them are small, family-owned establishments and accommodating large groups, such as ours, can be difficult. A hot breakfast is provided at the hotel, and we will take a 1.5 to 2 hour lunch break each day. We tend to split up into smaller groups for lunch and meet back up for afternoon birding. You are also welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy on the refuge. We will plan an optional meet up for dinner and/or drink on Thursday evening at a location to be determined. We will also plan an optional group dinner on our last evening.
Pace:
Each day will require an early start (leaving the hotel around 7:00 AM) in an attempt to take advantage of peak birding opportunities. The birding will be easy to moderate walking on flat terrain, but we will be covering a lot of ground. There may be times you are required to stand for an extended period of time. Sturdy walking shoes are hiking boots are recommended.
Weather:
Weather in Florida this time of year can be hard to predict. One should plan for anything from breezy mornings in the 40’s all the way up to the 80’s. Rain is common this time of year, so pack a rain coat and waterproof footwear. Weather in the area can change quickly, so the group should be prepared to adjust plans as needed.
Travel Insurance:
We recommend purchasing travel insurance in case you must make an unforeseen trip cancellation past our refund period. Check with your own insurance carrier or consider a travel insurance specialist.
Cancellation Policy:
If notice of cancellation by the participant is received by December 1, 2025, a refund of all payments made will be given (less a $50 administrative fee). If notice of cancellation is received between December 1 and December 24, a 50% refund of the tour fee will be given unless the space(s) can be filled, in which case a full refund will be given (less a $50 administrative fee). Thereafter, all deposits and payments are non-refundable unless the space(s) can be filled, in which case a full refund will be given (less a $50 administrative fee). In the event of tour cancellation due to weather, strike, war, quarantine, or other unforeseen emergency situation, a 100% refund will be given, less any expenses incurred by the tour operator.
Terms and Conditions:
Please review the Birds Georgia Travel Program Terms and Conditions prior to registration.
- Two full days and one half-day of guided birding with Birds Georgia staff
- Wakulla Springs State Park boat tour
- Admission to all fee-based birding sites, including St. Marks NWR, Wakulla Springs State Park, and other sites.
- Guides will bring a spotting scopes for group use. Please feel free to bring your own if you have one.
- Loaned binoculars are available for use during the trip with advance notice.
Price does not include:
- Transportation and travel fees not specified above
- Lodging
- Meals, beverages, etc.
- Travel insurance, recommended
- Medical costs
- Souvenirs
- Other incidentals participants may wish to purchase
Lodging Information:
Birds Georgia will reserve a block of rooms at the Best Western Wakulla Springs for those interested in reserving a room at the group rate. We will share this information with participants soon. The Best Western Wakulla Springs provides basic and clean accommodations, including an in-room mini fridge and coffee maker, as well as a complimentary breakfast. Participants who desire more amenities may want to consider other private rental units in the area, such as houses and condos, through providers like VRBO, Airbnb, private rental companies, etc. Please contact us with any questions about lodging.
Meals:
Meals are on your own for this trip. There are many excellent seafood and other restaurants in and around the area, but most of them are small, family-owned establishments and accommodating large groups, such as ours, can be difficult. A hot breakfast is provided at the hotel, and we will take a 1.5 to 2 hour lunch break each day. We tend to split up into smaller groups for lunch and meet back up for afternoon birding. You are also welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy on the refuge. We will plan an optional meet up for dinner and/or drink on Thursday evening at a location to be determined. We will also plan an optional group dinner on our last evening.
Pace:
Each day will require an early start (leaving the hotel around 7:00 AM) in an attempt to take advantage of peak birding opportunities. The birding will be easy to moderate walking on flat terrain, but we will be covering a lot of ground. There may be times you are required to stand for an extended period of time. Sturdy walking shoes are hiking boots are recommended.
Weather:
Weather in Florida this time of year can be hard to predict. One should plan for anything from breezy mornings in the 40’s all the way up to the 80’s. Rain is common this time of year, so pack a rain coat and waterproof footwear. Weather in the area can change quickly, so the group should be prepared to adjust plans as needed.
Travel Insurance:
We recommend purchasing travel insurance in case you must make an unforeseen trip cancellation past our refund period. Check with your own insurance carrier or consider a travel insurance specialist.
Cancellation Policy:
If notice of cancellation by the participant is received by December 1, 2025, a refund of all payments made will be given (less a $50 administrative fee). If notice of cancellation is received between December 1 and December 24, a 50% refund of the tour fee will be given unless the space(s) can be filled, in which case a full refund will be given (less a $50 administrative fee). Thereafter, all deposits and payments are non-refundable unless the space(s) can be filled, in which case a full refund will be given (less a $50 administrative fee). In the event of tour cancellation due to weather, strike, war, quarantine, or other unforeseen emergency situation, a 100% refund will be given, less any expenses incurred by the tour operator.
Terms and Conditions:
Please review the Birds Georgia Travel Program Terms and Conditions prior to registration.
