Nature and Animals

Birds of a Feather

  • June 2026
  • BY SUE MATTSON

THE GREAT BLUE HERON IS A LARGE WADING BIRD IN THE HERON FAMILY, COMMON NEAR SHORES OF OPEN WATER AND WETLANDS.

According to Visit Florida, the state hosts more than 500 native bird species and naturally occurring strays, with more than 300 native species appearing commonly. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shares that while the total count of observed species is more than 500 because of migratory patterns, wintering, and nonnative avian visitors, there are about 200 species known to breed within the state.

For a detailed, searchable checklist of the birds found in Florida, click on the link to review the Florida Birding Trail checklist.

Sabal Springs boasts a wide variety of wildlife, including many bird species. Sue Mattson was kind enough to share several photos she took of our feathered friends spotted right outside her lanai. More to come from Sue in future months.

If you would like to share your photos of the wildlife and birds found in our community, please send to The Breeze at [email protected].

THE WOOD STORK IS AN ICONIC,
LARGE WADING BIRD AND THE
ONLY STORK SPECIES THAT
REGULARLY BREEDS IN THE
UNITED STATES
.
OSPREYS ARE LARGE, FISH-EATING RAPTORS
WITH SIX-FOOT WINGSPANS, COMMON
YEAR-ROUND THROUGHOUT FLORIDA’S
COASTLINES, LAKES, AND RIVERS.