Corkscrew Florida

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 >> Stay informed about: Corkscrew Florida 

Richard wrote:
> On Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:50:21 -0800 (PST), craftyt DeleteThis @gmail.com wrote:
>
>> On Jan 24, 4:32 am, Richard <> wrote:
>>> I will be visiting SW Florida in two weeks time from a wet, windy
>>> gloomy and miserable Europe.
>>>
>>> Has anyone any news of Corkscrew swamp? Last time I didn't bother
>>> going there as it was apparently very dry.
>>>
>>> Did any burrowing owls return to Cape Coral? Last time I couldn't find
>>> any.
>>>
>>> Can't wait to see Venice rookery and Ding Darling
>>>
>>> TIA.
>>>
>>> Richard.
>> Hi Richard,
>> This is Tom from a gloomy and miserable Michigan. See? We have a lot
>> in common.
>>
>> I have no information on Corkscrew Swamp. It is I who is seeking
>> information from you. My wife and I will be making our 1st trip to
>> the area in March. Perhaps you would be willing to share some of
>> your birding experiences with us. If you get a moment, please let us
>> know which areas are productive for you. (For example, I haven't
>> heard of the Venice rookery. What do you hope to find there?)
>>
>> What is your itinerary?
>> Thanks so much.
>> Tom
>
> Hey, we had sunshine today! Weird.
>
> Venice rookery is a fantastic place for bird photographers. You will
> need a long lens though, but even just watching is great.
>
> As usual Google is your friend and this is the first search result:
> http://photo.net/learn/nature/venice
>
> We'll probably be commuting mainly between Fort Myers and Sanibel but
> maybe going further afield. Who knows?
> Myakka Park, Fort deSoto and St. Pete's beach can be good too.
>
> You're welcome,
>
> Richard.

I used the above link to guide me the first time I visited
the Venice rookery. It is my favorite bird photography
spot in Florida and I have returned many times.
My favorite spots are illustrated in my photos:
http://www.clarkvision.com/galleries/gallery.florida.bird

I have been there in early March, and it was great at the times
I was there. I have not been to Corkscrew (it's been on my list,
but I haven't seen photos from others to really draw me there).
Fort deSoto can be nice too, mainly shore birds. I've been several
times and would go back.

I have not been to Florida for 1.5 years. How has
Ding Darling recovered from the hurricane?

Roger
 >> Stay informed about: Corkscrew Florida 

"Roger N. Clark (change username to rnclark)" <username.RemoveThis@qwest.net> wrote in
message news:479BECBF.6060307@qwest.net...
> Richard wrote:
>> On Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:50:21 -0800 (PST), craftyt.RemoveThis@gmail.com wrote:
>>
>>> On Jan 24, 4:32 am, Richard <> wrote:
>>>> I will be visiting SW Florida in two weeks time from a wet, windy
>>>> gloomy and miserable Europe.
>>>>
>>>> Has anyone any news of Corkscrew swamp? Last time I didn't bother
>>>> going there as it was apparently very dry.
>>>>
>>>> Did any burrowing owls return to Cape Coral? Last time I couldn't find
>>>> any.
>>>>
>>>> Can't wait to see Venice rookery and Ding Darling
>>>>
>>>> TIA.
>>>>
>>>> Richard.
>>> Hi Richard,
>>> This is Tom from a gloomy and miserable Michigan. See? We have a lot
>>> in common.
>>>
>>> I have no information on Corkscrew Swamp. It is I who is seeking
>>> information from you. My wife and I will be making our 1st trip to
>>> the area in March. Perhaps you would be willing to share some of
>>> your birding experiences with us. If you get a moment, please let us
>>> know which areas are productive for you. (For example, I haven't
>>> heard of the Venice rookery. What do you hope to find there?)
>>>
>>> What is your itinerary?
>>> Thanks so much.
>>> Tom
>>
>> Hey, we had sunshine today! Weird.
>>
>> Venice rookery is a fantastic place for bird photographers. You will
>> need a long lens though, but even just watching is great.
>>
>> As usual Google is your friend and this is the first search result:
>> http://photo.net/learn/nature/venice
>>
>> We'll probably be commuting mainly between Fort Myers and Sanibel but
>> maybe going further afield. Who knows? Myakka Park, Fort deSoto and St.
>> Pete's beach can be good too.
>>
>> You're welcome,
>>
>> Richard.
>
> I used the above link to guide me the first time I visited
> the Venice rookery. It is my favorite bird photography
> spot in Florida and I have returned many times.
> My favorite spots are illustrated in my photos:
> http://www.clarkvision.com/galleries/gallery.florida.bird
>
> I have been there in early March, and it was great at the times
> I was there. I have not been to Corkscrew (it's been on my list,
> but I haven't seen photos from others to really draw me there).
> Fort deSoto can be nice too, mainly shore birds. I've been several
> times and would go back.
>
> I have not been to Florida for 1.5 years. How has
> Ding Darling recovered from the hurricane?
>
> Roger

In case you're looking for something new, here's some info regarding some
sites in British Columbia, Canada, where bird watchers, bear lovers, and
whale enthusiasts can really have a great time and get some incredible
shots.

1.
Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area
-
Creston
The Wildlife Area is an impressive 17,000 ac wetland habitat. The Wildlife
Centre
offers canoe & walking tours, trail maps & educational exhibits. Hike & bike
32 kms
of trails or paddle the waterways for some amazing wildlife viewing
opportunities.
>
2.
Pacific Northwest Raptors
-
Duncan
1877 Herd Rd
Duncan, British Columbia
V9L 5W4
Be stunned by eagles, owls, hawks, falcons and vultures, as they fly and
soar free
over your heads. Visitor centre offers a chance to get up close and personal
with
amazing birds of prey. Course, tours and experiences also available.
>
3.
Parrot Island Sanctuary
- Peachland
5090 Mackinnon Rd
Peachland, British Columbia
V0H 1X2
Parrot Island Sanctuary is nestled in beautiful Peachland in the Okanagan
Valley.
We take in parrots from all over Canada and give them a wonderful permanent
home.
We have a giftshop with great parrot souvenirs. Please bring your camera!
>
4.
Wetlands Wildlife Safaris
-
Golden
210 Fisher Rd
Golden, British Columbia
V0A 1H0
Experience the serenity & wonder of the world famous Columbia River
Wetlands. Relax
as you float quietly past beaver dams, osprey nests, & a heron rookery.
Guided &
self-guided safaris available. Visit our website to WATCH OUR VIDEO.
>
Other businesses with Bird Watching
5.
Canadian Outback Adventures River Rafting
-
Squamish
Lot 13, Plan 5021
Squamish, British Columbia
V0N 3G0
Canadian Outback Adventures offers a variety of river rafting adventures for
all
ages and skill levels. Whether you're 5 or 85, we have an adventure that
will allow
you to experience the beauty and serenity of British Columbia.
>
6.
Eagle Wing Whale Watching
-
Victoria
1234 Wharf Street
Victoria, British Columbia
V8W 3H9
GUARANTEED WHALES!! All eco-whale watching tours are not created equal!
Eagle Wing
Tours is the most comfortable, personable, professional, thrilling, safest
year-round
whale watching/eco-adventure company in Victoria. Many extras, on-board
washrooms,
hydrophone & perfect safety record!
>
7.
Ecotours-BC - Grizzly Bears, Gold Rush & Natural History
- Quesnel Lake
4911 Quesnel Forks Rd
Quesnel Lake, British Columbia
V0L 1N0
Ecotours-BC, exciting, safe, fully guided adventure experiences in the
Cariboo Mountains.
Grizzly bear watching, wildlife viewing, alpine, wetlands, birds, old growth
forests,
gold rush history. Ideal for photography, hiking and exploring. New birding
and winter
wildlife viewing program.
>
Accommodations with Bird Watching
8.
RED CROW ON THE OCEANFRONT
1084 Pacific Rim Hwy
Tofino, British Columbia
V0R 2Z0
Waterfront Cape Cod Style home; secluded ancient forest setting overlooking
bird
sanctuary; spectacular views of Meares island and small offshore islands.
Hot tub,
forest trails, canoes, bikes. Large king or queen bed/sitting rooms with
ensuite
baths, breakfast included, or self-contained garden cottage. WiFi
complimentary.
>
Book Now or call 1-800-HELLO-BC®
9.
Big Bar Guest Ranch
5960 Big Bar Rd S
Clinton, British Columbia
V0K 1K0
Open year round. Horseback riding & seasonal activities offered. Private
cabins,
tepees and guest rooms available - resort rates include breakfast, lunch,
dinner,
& service.
>
10.
Canadian Country Cabins
8170 Loos Rd (Crescent Spur)
McBride, British Columbia
V0J 3E0
Opening October 2nd, please call for availability. Handcrafted log cabins in
a unique
peaceful wilderness setting. South facing decks with mountain vistas. Ideal
getaway
or base for the many activities in the area; hiking, nature watching, trail
riding,
ATVs, snowmobiles, hunting/fishing and many others. Or just come and enjoy
the peace
and majesty of our surroundings.
>
Lodging Rates (subject to change): $85.00 - $85.00


|


Hope to see you in Canada!

Good Luck,
Dudley
 >> Stay informed about: Corkscrew Florida 

Dudley Hanks wrote:

> In case you're looking for something new, here's some info regarding some
> sites in British Columbia, Canada, where bird watchers, bear lovers, and
> whale enthusiasts can really have a great time and get some incredible
> shots.
>
> 1.
> Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area
> -
> Creston
> The Wildlife Area is an impressive 17,000 ac wetland habitat. The Wildlife
> Centre
> offers canoe & walking tours, trail maps & educational exhibits. Hike & bike
> 32 kms
> of trails or paddle the waterways for some amazing wildlife viewing
> opportunities.
> 2.
> Pacific Northwest Raptors
> -
> Duncan
> 1877 Herd Rd
> Duncan, British Columbia
> V9L 5W4
> Be stunned by eagles, owls, hawks, falcons and vultures, as they fly and
> soar free
> over your heads. Visitor centre offers a chance to get up close and personal
> with
> amazing birds of prey. Course, tours and experiences also available.
> 3.
> Parrot Island Sanctuary
> - Peachland
> 5090 Mackinnon Rd
> Peachland, British Columbia
> V0H 1X2
> Parrot Island Sanctuary is nestled in beautiful Peachland in the Okanagan
> Valley.
> We take in parrots from all over Canada and give them a wonderful permanent
> home.
> We have a giftshop with great parrot souvenirs. Please bring your camera!
> 4.
> Wetlands Wildlife Safaris
> -
> Golden
> 210 Fisher Rd
> Golden, British Columbia
> V0A 1H0
> Experience the serenity & wonder of the world famous Columbia River
> Wetlands. Relax
> as you float quietly past beaver dams, osprey nests, & a heron rookery.
> Guided &
> self-guided safaris available. Visit our website to WATCH OUR VIDEO.
> Other businesses with Bird Watching
> 5.
> Canadian Outback Adventures River Rafting
> -
> Squamish
> Lot 13, Plan 5021
> Squamish, British Columbia
> V0N 3G0
> Canadian Outback Adventures offers a variety of river rafting adventures for
> all
> ages and skill levels. Whether you're 5 or 85, we have an adventure that
> will allow
> you to experience the beauty and serenity of British Columbia.
> 6.
> Eagle Wing Whale Watching
> -
> Victoria
> 1234 Wharf Street
> Victoria, British Columbia
> V8W 3H9
> GUARANTEED WHALES!! All eco-whale watching tours are not created equal!
> Eagle Wing
> Tours is the most comfortable, personable, professional, thrilling, safest
> year-round
> whale watching/eco-adventure company in Victoria. Many extras, on-board
> washrooms,
> hydrophone & perfect safety record!
> 7.
> Ecotours-BC - Grizzly Bears, Gold Rush & Natural History
> - Quesnel Lake
> 4911 Quesnel Forks Rd
> Quesnel Lake, British Columbia
> V0L 1N0
> Ecotours-BC, exciting, safe, fully guided adventure experiences in the
> Cariboo Mountains.
> Grizzly bear watching, wildlife viewing, alpine, wetlands, birds, old growth
> forests,
> gold rush history. Ideal for photography, hiking and exploring. New birding
> and winter
> wildlife viewing program.
> Accommodations with Bird Watching
> 8.
> RED CROW ON THE OCEANFRONT
> 1084 Pacific Rim Hwy
> Tofino, British Columbia
> V0R 2Z0
> Waterfront Cape Cod Style home; secluded ancient forest setting overlooking
> bird
> sanctuary; spectacular views of Meares island and small offshore islands.
> Hot tub,
> forest trails, canoes, bikes. Large king or queen bed/sitting rooms with
> ensuite
> baths, breakfast included, or self-contained garden cottage. WiFi
> complimentary.
> Book Now or call 1-800-HELLO-BC®
> 9.
> Big Bar Guest Ranch
> 5960 Big Bar Rd S
> Clinton, British Columbia
> V0K 1K0
> Open year round. Horseback riding & seasonal activities offered. Private
> cabins,
> tepees and guest rooms available - resort rates include breakfast, lunch,
> dinner,
> & service.
> 10.
> Canadian Country Cabins
> 8170 Loos Rd (Crescent Spur)
> McBride, British Columbia
> V0J 3E0
> Opening October 2nd, please call for availability. Handcrafted log cabins in
> a unique
> peaceful wilderness setting. South facing decks with mountain vistas. Ideal
> getaway
> or base for the many activities in the area; hiking, nature watching, trail
> riding,
> ATVs, snowmobiles, hunting/fishing and many others. Or just come and enjoy
> the peace
> and majesty of our surroundings.
> Lodging Rates (subject to change): $85.00 - $85.00
>
>
> |
>
>
> Hope to see you in Canada!
>
> Good Luck,
> Dudley
>
>
Dudley,

Thanks for the info. I grew up in Seattle and I have been to Vancouver
and Victoria several times. I've wanted to explore more of BC
for many years.

When is the best time of year for whales, especially active
whales (breaching)?

Roger
 >> Stay informed about: Corkscrew Florida 

"Roger N. Clark (change username to rnclark)" <username DeleteThis @qwest.net> wrote in
message news:47C034A2.3020501@qwest.net...
> Dudley Hanks wrote:
>
>> In case you're looking for something new, here's some info regarding some
>> sites in British Columbia, Canada, where bird watchers, bear lovers, and
>> whale enthusiasts can really have a great time and get some incredible
>> shots.
>>
>> 1.
>> Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area
>> -
>> Creston
>> The Wildlife Area is an impressive 17,000 ac wetland habitat. The
>> Wildlife Centre
>> offers canoe & walking tours, trail maps & educational exhibits. Hike &
>> bike 32 kms
>> of trails or paddle the waterways for some amazing wildlife viewing
>> opportunities.
>> 2.
>> Pacific Northwest Raptors
>> -
>> Duncan
>> 1877 Herd Rd
>> Duncan, British Columbia
>> V9L 5W4
>> Be stunned by eagles, owls, hawks, falcons and vultures, as they fly and
>> soar free
>> over your heads. Visitor centre offers a chance to get up close and
>> personal with
>> amazing birds of prey. Course, tours and experiences also available.
>> 3.
>> Parrot Island Sanctuary
>> - Peachland
>> 5090 Mackinnon Rd
>> Peachland, British Columbia
>> V0H 1X2
>> Parrot Island Sanctuary is nestled in beautiful Peachland in the Okanagan
>> Valley.
>> We take in parrots from all over Canada and give them a wonderful
>> permanent home.
>> We have a giftshop with great parrot souvenirs. Please bring your camera!
>> 4.
>> Wetlands Wildlife Safaris
>> -
>> Golden
>> 210 Fisher Rd
>> Golden, British Columbia
>> V0A 1H0
>> Experience the serenity & wonder of the world famous Columbia River
>> Wetlands. Relax
>> as you float quietly past beaver dams, osprey nests, & a heron rookery.
>> Guided &
>> self-guided safaris available. Visit our website to WATCH OUR VIDEO.
>> Other businesses with Bird Watching
>> 5.
>> Canadian Outback Adventures River Rafting
>> -
>> Squamish
>> Lot 13, Plan 5021
>> Squamish, British Columbia
>> V0N 3G0
>> Canadian Outback Adventures offers a variety of river rafting adventures
>> for all
>> ages and skill levels. Whether you're 5 or 85, we have an adventure that
>> will allow
>> you to experience the beauty and serenity of British Columbia.
>> 6.
>> Eagle Wing Whale Watching
>> -
>> Victoria
>> 1234 Wharf Street
>> Victoria, British Columbia
>> V8W 3H9
>> GUARANTEED WHALES!! All eco-whale watching tours are not created equal!
>> Eagle Wing
>> Tours is the most comfortable, personable, professional, thrilling,
>> safest year-round
>> whale watching/eco-adventure company in Victoria. Many extras, on-board
>> washrooms,
>> hydrophone & perfect safety record!
>> 7.
>> Ecotours-BC - Grizzly Bears, Gold Rush & Natural History
>> - Quesnel Lake
>> 4911 Quesnel Forks Rd
>> Quesnel Lake, British Columbia
>> V0L 1N0
>> Ecotours-BC, exciting, safe, fully guided adventure experiences in the
>> Cariboo Mountains.
>> Grizzly bear watching, wildlife viewing, alpine, wetlands, birds, old
>> growth forests,
>> gold rush history. Ideal for photography, hiking and exploring. New
>> birding and winter
>> wildlife viewing program.
>> Accommodations with Bird Watching
>> 8.
>> RED CROW ON THE OCEANFRONT
>> 1084 Pacific Rim Hwy
>> Tofino, British Columbia
>> V0R 2Z0
>> Waterfront Cape Cod Style home; secluded ancient forest setting
>> overlooking bird
>> sanctuary; spectacular views of Meares island and small offshore islands.
>> Hot tub,
>> forest trails, canoes, bikes. Large king or queen bed/sitting rooms with
>> ensuite
>> baths, breakfast included, or self-contained garden cottage. WiFi
>> complimentary.
>> Book Now or call 1-800-HELLO-BC®
>> 9.
>> Big Bar Guest Ranch
>> 5960 Big Bar Rd S
>> Clinton, British Columbia
>> V0K 1K0
>> Open year round. Horseback riding & seasonal activities offered. Private
>> cabins,
>> tepees and guest rooms available - resort rates include breakfast, lunch,
>> dinner,
>> & service.
>> 10.
>> Canadian Country Cabins
>> 8170 Loos Rd (Crescent Spur)
>> McBride, British Columbia
>> V0J 3E0
>> Opening October 2nd, please call for availability. Handcrafted log cabins
>> in a unique
>> peaceful wilderness setting. South facing decks with mountain vistas.
>> Ideal getaway
>> or base for the many activities in the area; hiking, nature watching,
>> trail riding,
>> ATVs, snowmobiles, hunting/fishing and many others. Or just come and
>> enjoy the peace
>> and majesty of our surroundings.
>> Lodging Rates (subject to change): $85.00 - $85.00
>>
>>
>> |
>>
>>
>> Hope to see you in Canada!
>>
>> Good Luck,
>> Dudley
>>
>>
> Dudley,
>
> Thanks for the info. I grew up in Seattle and I have been to Vancouver
> and Victoria several times. I've wanted to explore more of BC
> for many years.
>
> When is the best time of year for whales, especially active
> whales (breaching)?
>
> Roger

I haven't done the whale-watching tours myself, but I've heard that March is
a great time -- some good packages seem to be scheduled for the spring break
period.

I've visited Victoria several times, and there are a number of companies
guarranteeing actual sightings just about any time of the year. I remember
a few years ago, my wife and I were walking down a beach near Victoria when
some people were just coming back to shore after taking a tour, and they
were all gushing about some orcas they'd spotted. It sounded good.

In your case, Roger, you might want to check out Tofino, because there are a
lot of bears in the area as well as bird sanctuaries and superb
whale-watching.

Hope this helps,
Dudley
 >> Stay informed about: Corkscrew Florida