Walking through shallow water would be fine as long as it's not something I'd get stuck in, like a foot or two of muck on the bottom. I just won't be able to bring anything like waders. I could definitely pack something like water shoes though.
Fort DeSoto FL
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Yes, most of the areas are sandy and not muddy. I usually walk the north end in my bare feet. There are outside showers/feet wash offs near the parking.
Even the muddy areas are kind of hard packed. Please beware, however, that these areas are VERY slippery.
I understand.
dbspano
New member
Maybe not usually but saw several there in May 2021 and at Honeymoon Island this past December
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Is the end of November and early December typically too early for winter birds? I'm not interested in nesting but breeding plumage would be nice, and of course I'm looking for the largest number of species as well.
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You should start to see some breeding plumage in that period - especially being that far south. I had good plumage for great blue herons at Venice Rookery in January.
Wanting to bump this thread, as I'll be going to Tampa in a few weeks (mid-April), and am getting some time at Ft. DeSoto. Thinking I'll be there right in the middle of Spring Migration, so should get some good Warbler action.
So, that 7AM opening... kinda annoyed by this because by the time you get in, parked, settled, you then have to walk to find a spot. Can only imagine I won't be the only one trying to get in either, so will probably have to deal with hordes of other tourists as well. At this time of year, I imagine the sun will sprint into the sky and it'll be harsh light by the time I find anything worthwhile. Had this same experience at Ft. Zachary Taylor Nat Park in Key West, where it only opened at 8AM, the light was crap by the time I got to birding. So, is it even worth the rush to get in here for birding? If Ft. Desoto doesn't pan out, are there other places in the St. Pete area that I can go to before sunrise so that I am not rushed?
As for lenses, sounds like an 800mm is the way to go? Thinking I'll bring my 180-600 and 800PF. Or, was also considering bringing just my 600PF (w/ 1.4TC).
So, that 7AM opening... kinda annoyed by this because by the time you get in, parked, settled, you then have to walk to find a spot. Can only imagine I won't be the only one trying to get in either, so will probably have to deal with hordes of other tourists as well. At this time of year, I imagine the sun will sprint into the sky and it'll be harsh light by the time I find anything worthwhile. Had this same experience at Ft. Zachary Taylor Nat Park in Key West, where it only opened at 8AM, the light was crap by the time I got to birding. So, is it even worth the rush to get in here for birding? If Ft. Desoto doesn't pan out, are there other places in the St. Pete area that I can go to before sunrise so that I am not rushed?
As for lenses, sounds like an 800mm is the way to go? Thinking I'll bring my 180-600 and 800PF. Or, was also considering bringing just my 600PF (w/ 1.4TC).
There are some very good spots on the causeway on the drive out to Fort DeSoto. It's best with mid to lower tides. That will give you a chance to set up your gear and make some photos before entry to the park.
Be sure to plan where you want to go. I would start the day photographing the North Beach areas. There are three good locations that can be productive all morning. It's a big area so you might move your car. There is a lagoon near the southern end of the North Beach Parking lot, and it can be very good early. There is another inlet/pond near the north end of the same parking lot and the restrooms. The oak trees at the turnaround circle are very productive for warblers - but the small birds can be maddening. Between these three locations and the trees near the parking lot, you could fill the entire morning every day.
In the middle of the day, you'll be surprised at how much warbler and migrant activity there can be in the oak trees. The lighting is tough, but the birds will be there. You can also get a good break for lunch.
In the mid to late afternoon, I like the fountain near the dog park. The fountain is past the house to the east of the parking lot.
I like to check periodically and end the day at East Beach. You're very likely to see small plovers and sandpipers including some uncommon or rare birds in the mix. Piping plovers are likely.
The big attraction of Fort DeSoto is the variety of birds. Osprey are like pigeons - there are lots of osprey and nests with activity throughout the day. There are native parrots. You have plenty of wading birds, shorebirds, songbirds, and migrants. I don't think a lack of birds will be an issue.
ProperFrame
Active member
The 180-600 is great as the birds are habituated and will walk right past you. I suggest as low as you can get for the shorebirds. You are correct the light will be getting harsh as sunrise is well before the opening this time of year. In January this year they had the fountain area cordoned off to a an Eagle nest. Should be open now.
dbspano
New member
And remember mosquito repellant! Mosquitos can be relentless there anywhere away from the beach.
ajrmd
Well-known member
About the light... if you're lucky a bit of overcast skies can extend the morning though if sun is in the forecast, you'll have a narrow window.