Bird watching at Daggerwing ahead of Turkey Day

A wild Osceola turkey at the Myakka State Park in Sarasota, FL. [Photo by Lagunatic Photo]

Discover the fascinating world of bird watching at Daggerwing Nature Center. Join one of their knowledgeable naturalists to learn about various bird species and develop key identification skills. In the spirit of the season, you'll also explore the unique characteristics of Florida turkeys as we prepare for Thanksgiving. Following the session, put your newfound skills at put into practice during a guided birding adventure.

What: Birding 101

When: Nov. 23 at 10:30 a.m.

Where: Daggerwing Nature Center

Address: 11435 Park Access Road, west of Boca Raton

Ages: 5+

Price: $5/participant (Reservations required)

Website: discover.pbcgov.org

Wild turkeys are native to South Florida, though they are not as abundant as in other parts of the state or country. The specific subspecies found in Florida is the Osceola turkey, which is unique to the state and named after the famous Seminole leader, Osceola.

Wild turkeys in South Florida typically inhabit hardwood swamps, pine flatwoods, and other areas with a mix of open spaces and dense vegetation for cover. They forage for a variety of food, including seeds, berries, insects, and small amphibians, which are abundant in South Florida’s ecosystems.

The Osceola turkey is particularly prized by birdwatchers and hunters for its rarity and distinctive appearance, which includes darker and more iridescent feathers compared to other subspecies.