Markham Woods Tract Scenery

Markham Woods Tract HDR

Well, 2016 is the last year of the 2nd Breeding Bird Atlas for Florida (BBA2).  The first one began in 1986 and lasted for 5 years.  This second one began in 2011.  I became involved in 2013, and it's been a wonderful way to motivate me to get out into nature during the hot months of May, June and July. This being the last year of the survey, we're focusing on certain strategic areas.  We use the U.S. Geological Survey Quad maps, and we divide each map into six blocks.  The 6-block of each quad is an area where we want to concentrate.  So I've spent a fair amount of time at the Markham Woods Tract of the Wekiva Springs State Park, since that's in the 6-block of the Sanford SW Quad.  I've been here a few times before, but I've never concentrated on the area because it seems like other areas are just a little bit better for finding wildlife.

Markham Woods Tract

However, I've been there quite frequently this May and June and Iv'e found that the area is much more expansive than I had thought.  I've added 18 species this year to my list for this eBird hotspot, mostly because I've explored more of the area. I've been bringing my point and shoot camera with me, and occasionally I shoot a few scenic shots.  Here are a couple that I'm willing to show you.