Purple Gallinule Walking Through The Reeds

The Celery Fields

An area in eastern Sarasota County that was once farmland, was purchased by Sarasota County in 1995 and eventually transformed into a park. The area was known for growing celery and is comprised of ditches and wetlands. Today it is a popular destination for birders, walkers, and runners. There is a man made hill in the center of the park that provides a nice challenge for fitness enthusiasts. The Sarasota Audubon Society has a small nature center on site, and they offer tours and educational services through a network of volunteers.

Black Necked Stilt Chick Walking Through Water
Black-necked Stilt Chick Walking through the Water
Purple Gallinule Standing In The Weeds
Purple Gallinule Standing in the Weeds

But for us, the main attraction is the habitat. The park has a series of flooded marshes, lakes, creeks, and grasslands. The great habitat means a lot of birds. It’s also a hot spot during the spring and fall migrations and attracts not only the birds, but bird enthusiast from all around the world. There have been almost 250 bird species reported at the Celery Fields.

Great Egret Flies By To Left In Morning Sun
Great Egret Flies by to the Left in the Morning Sun
Tri Colored Heron Chasing Fish Through Weeds
Tri-colored Heron with Open Wings Chasing Fish Through the Weeds

For more information about the Celery Fields, please visit the links below.

More photos have been uploaded to the Egrets, Herons, and Other Water Birds galleries.

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