The Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge, established in 1938, was created as a haven for great white herons, which were being hunted for their highly prized feathers for the millinery trade. Part of a vast subtropical ecosystem, the refuge consists of a 300 square mile area of water and backcountry islands that lie north of the main chain of the Florida Keys, between Marathon and Key West. The refuge is the last of the offshore, or backcountry, islands in the Lower Florida Keys available as critical nesting, roosting, loafing, and wading habitat for over 250 avian species and provides critical nesting habitat for endangered sea turtles. The Refuge is only accessible by boat. Information can be obtained at the National Key Deer Refuge administrative office. See directions to National Key Deer Refuge.
Location:
P.O. BOX 430510, Fish and Wildlife Service, Big Pine Key Florida 33043
Telephone
305-872-2239
Other Wildlife Viewing nearby:
(Key West) All Animal Clinic
(Islamorada) Animal Hospital
(Ramrod Key) Cruz Animal Hospital
(Islamorada) Florida Keys Fly Fishing School
(Big Pine Key) Great White Heron National Wildlife Refu
(Big Pine Key) Sea Boots
|
01/10 Coming to The Big Pine Key area
Florida Keys Island Fest Islamorada FL April13-14 The Arts and Crafts show will feature the very best of both local and national artists including everything from paintings and sculptures to jewelry and fine crafts.
Tortuga Music Festival FORT LAUDERDALE FL April13-14 The beach will be transformed into an oceanfront music experience, featuring top country and rock artists and local culinary delights on the shores of the Florida coast. Together with Rock The Ocean, Tortuga will pair music with meaning by raising awareness about marine conservation and issues affecting the world’s oceans.
Ft Lauderdale Repticon Show Ft Lauderdale FL April20-21 Featuring reptile and amphibian breeders and wholesalers, reptile pet products and supplies, educational seminars and exhibits, and fun-filled activities for the entire family!
Greynolds Love-In North Miami Beach FL May5 The 1960's, one of the most exciting eras in history can be relived at the Annual Greynolds Park Love-In. Wear your tie-dyed clothing, put on your hippie beads, dust off your peace signs and groove with the family to notable bands of the era. Enjoy the music, food and much more!
Redland International Orchid Show Homestead FL May17-19 One of the largest annual orchid show in the U.S. featuring over 50 booths of educational exhibits and orchid vendors. An American Orchid Society judged event showcasing various types of orchids, plants and supplies for sale, as well as lectures by experts, raffles and international food.
Bahamas Goombay Festival Coconut Grove FL June8-9 Goombay is one of the largest Black heritage festivals in the U.S.
The fest is a ton of fun for all, the highlight being the amazingly colorful junkanoo costumes on parade. There's also music, activities for kids, and vendors selling a variety of arts, crafts and food.
|
|