Attention fellow nature enthusiasts – - the 13th annual Florida Keys Birding and Wildlife Festival will begin on Wednesday, September 21. Whether you are an experienced birder or just want to enjoy nature in this paradise, there are activities for you.  A complete schedule of events is found on the Keys Birding Festival site.  Highlights include everything from pre-festival field trips to Long Key and the Everglades to an Environmental Fair, Wildlife Art Show, birding and wildlife photography, excursions, presentations, tours, and social events.  I like the fact that you can pick and choose events and create the perfect festival for your interests.

Key West will be the site of some excellent festival choices. On Friday, September 23rd and also on Saturday, September 24th, the Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden will be the site of a tour and bird watching trip. This favorite spot of mine is home to 164 species of birds and 52 species of butterflies!  On Saturday, September 24^th, there will also be a behind-the-scenes tour of the clinic and aviaries of the Key West Wildlife Center. The center focuses on our wild birds and Key West chickens. The care provided by the Center is amazing!

Another Key West stop will be a  wine and cheese social and presentation by award-winning nature photographers Dick Fortune and Sara Lopez at the Florida Keys Eco-Discover Center. This event is scheduled for Saturday, September 24, beginning at 6:30 p.m. The presentation will highlight photographs of nature’s feathers, fins, and furs that were taken with high-powered lenses.  The fun evening will include tips from the photographers on improving your nature photography.

A unique all-day birding trip will be offered to Dry Tortugas National Park off the coast of Key West on Sunday, September 25th.  Participants can chose to spend the day with Florida Keys birder Dr. Mark Whiteside of the Florida Keys Audubon for a traditional day of birding or with wildlife photographers Dick Fortune and Sara Lopez to learn more about professional nature photography.

September is peak birding season here and a wonderful time to visit Key West.  Of course there is no such thing as a “bad” time to be in this paradise!  Whether you are here to enjoy the five days of birding and wildlife or not, it is a good time to look at the real estate options. I’m ready to help—give me a call today.  Margarita Villoch: 305-304-8505.

photo courtesy Florida Keys Wild Bird Center- Facebook Page