Winter Birding Ecotour at Marine Discovery Center

The Marine Discovery Center’s Winter Birding Tours will continue this month, providing avian enthusiasts an opportunity to observe migratory birds in our area at this time of year. The next trip will take place on Thursday, March 10, starting at 9 a.m.

MDC’s Winter Birding Tours allow guests a chance to learn more about these species from naturalists and local Audubon chapter members. The tours offer both beginning and avid birders transportation to Disappearing Island onboard MDC’s Discovery boat.

Cost per person for the three-hour tours will be $40 for adults; $37 for seniors (62+) and students; and $22 for children under 12. Children participating on these tours must be under adult supervision at all times.

The Discovery boat will leave from the North Causeway dock in New Smyrna Beach to Disappearing Island, where guests will disembark at Disappearing Island at Ponce Inlet and walk the shoreline to view such migratory species as red knots, black skimmers and a variety of plovers and sandpipers only seen in this area during the winter months.

These popular three-hour trips give birding enthusiasts of all levels time to explore with small groups of experienced birders. This is a perfect opportunity for novices to learn from the best birders in this area.

Trips will leave MDC’s dock on the North Causeway at 9 a.m., and return at noon. Guests are encouraged to bring binoculars, viewing scopes, water and snacks, and to wear comfortable, water-tolerant shoes to walk along the shoreline.

The Discovery is a 40-passenger boat equipped with an emergency marine head (toilet). Stairs will be provided for guests to disembark at Disappearing Island.

The 2022 season’s final Winter Birding Tour is set for Thursday, April 14.

To make reservations, call the Marine Discovery Center at 386-428-4828 or…

book now