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(Although not a birding site, Mote Marines Sea Life Encounter boat trips offer a seasonal opportunity to view birds, including pelicans, herons and egrets, in their nesting habitat). Address: 300 Bay St., Osprey, FL 34229 In the northwest parcel, a small area containing trail markers 30-32 is difficult to access, but, if the water level in the slough is low, it is possible to enter this area by crossing over a small concrete dam (about 130 yards north along the main trail, after the Gypsy Street/S. Near the preserve entrance (see Trail Map below) are ponds and freshwater wetlands that may hold waders and ducks. A nearly $500,000 restoration of former celery fields along Black Creek is expected to vastly improve the fish habitat and water quality of Mona Lake. In the spring, Swainsons and Kentucky Warbler have been easily viewed in the understory along much of the edging of the park; look for these birds in the NW corner and along the north-central perimeter fence line. Insiders Tip: Most birders make a beeline for the west part of the park, with its two primitive Yellow and Red Trails, and smaller paths cutting across the interior and around the park perimeter. The park can be a productive place to view birds, with more than 160 species reported by eBirders, but new construction, including a 110,000 square foot marine science education aquarium at the northern end of the park, changes in habitat, such as a decrease in plantings around the lake, large mowed areas, and alterations in the shoreline to enhance sporting activities, may adversely affect birding opportunities. This article was adapted by Arny Rawson from History and Agriculture in Sarasota County Florida, published by the Sarasota County Fair and Sarasota County Historical Commission, 1976. Near water, you can view Belted Kingfisher, Anhinga, herons, egrets, ducks, and both night-herons, to name only a few. These favorite birding places are located mainly in Sarasota County, with a sampling in Manatee County. Contact Sarasota County offices at (941) 861-5000 for information on scheduled bird walks and other activities.