Now that fall has arrived – goodbye heat and humidity – you and your family might be interested in visiting this peaceful oasis located on the shores of Lake Maggiore at 1101 Country Club Way, South.

You’ll find welcoming walking trails and boardwalks that wind through unique eco-systems that are homes to over:

• 60 specifies of reptiles and amphibians;
• 50 species of butterflies; and
• 165 species of birds

Because of this strong diversity of birds, the preserve has been named to the Great Florida Birding Trail.

Before you begin your walk, take time to visit the national award winning exhibit “The Ripple Effect: Understanding Nature’s Connections” at the Lake Maggiore Education Center. As you walk the trails you will see the aviary, home to 15 permanently injured birds of prey including an eagle, hawks and owls. It’s a great way to see these magnificent birds up close!

For hours, membership information and cost: Call 727.893-7326.