Mead Botanical Garden in Winter Park is a great little oasis amid Orlando’s urban jungle, and it’s pretty amazing at sunset.
The garden grounds are beautiful, but for me it has always been hit or miss when it comes to birding. On a recent trip, it was more of a hit.
I spotted a Pileated Woodpecker working on a tree just a few feet from me, a Barred Owl waiting for sundown and a group of American Robins looking for berries on sidewalks and in the stunning azalea beds.
I don’t get this lucky often when visiting Mead Garden, but I’m glad I was on this trip
Pileated Woodpecker, Mead Garden in Winter Park, February 2025.Pileated Woodpecker, Mead Garden in Winter Park, February 2025.Barred Owl, Mead Garden in Winter Park, February 2025.Barred Owl, Mead Garden in Winter Park, February 2025.Barred Owl, Mead Garden in Winter Park, February 2025.Barred Owl, Mead Garden in Winter Park, February 2025.American Robin, Mead Garden in Winter Park. February 2025.American Robin, Mead Garden in Winter Park. February 2025.American Robin, Mead Garden in Winter Park. February 2025.American Robin, Mead Garden in Winter Park. February 2025.American Robin, Mead Garden in Winter Park. February 2025.American Robin, Mead Garden in Winter Park. February 2025.American Robin, Mead Garden in Winter Park. February 2025.
I decided to visit the Hal Scott Regional Preserve and Park to look for endangered Red-Cockaded Woodpeckers. I didn’t find any, but did come across some other cool birds.
I decided to make the most of what has been rare January sunshine and hit up both Orlando Wetlands and the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. Sort of a birding doubleheader. But I hit the Daily Double for these trips.
