With over 230 unique species on its observations list, Bolen Bluff is a local birding highlight regardless of the time of year. Located on the Southern rim of Payne's Prairie, this mostly flat trail starts in a wooded upland area, rambles along the basin rim of the prairie, and eventually descends into the basin towards a raised observation tower.
We’ll hike the entirety of the woodland trail and then the basin trail out to the observation tower, for a round-trip total of approximately 3 miles. Ground is mostly flat with some slight changes in elevation, with a well-tread trail that is also frequented by deer, bison, and wild horses. Our target species is the short-eared owl, but we may also find other prairie specialists like Savannah Sparrows, Northern Harriers, and Red-tailed Hawks.
Difficulty: 3, due to distance and some uneven terrain including a fair amount of roots.
To bring: binoculars, closed-toe comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, walking stick if needed, water, sun protection. Bugs can get bad at this location. We will be in the park after sunset, so a headlamp may come in handy.
Birders of all ability levels and non-members are welcome.
Full field trip schedule and more information:
http://www.alachuaaudubon.org/events-activities/field-trips/
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Trips & Adventurous Activities in Micanopy.
