Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Posted by Pat Stewart on Jun 21, 2012 in My Blog | 0 comments

The Titusville, FL area is host to Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge which is America’s most unique wildlife refuge.   The 140,000 acre refuge’s mild climate is perfect for many wildlife species as well as temperate and subtropical  plants.  The refuge manages habitat for over 500 species of wildlife and supports one of the highest numbers of endangered and threatened species found within the National Wildlife Refuge system.  Being located on a boundry with NASA, the two are perfect neighbors both recognizing that nature and technology can coexist and even thrive.

While I was there, I was impressed the huge refuge’s obviously well-planned and organized site.  Such lovely fresh and salt water marshes!  I saw Great Egrets, Great Blue Herons, Green Herons, Anhingas, seagulls, sandpipers, red-winged black birds and a common loon.  I was hoping to see a Roseate Spponbill to add to my Life List, but I think that will be seen in cooler months or further south along the Gulf Coast,

Merritt Island is definitely worth a visit.  Their is a nice Visitor Center and a Manatee Observation area, both closed when I was there so there’s reason for me to go again!!