Birding at Guana Lake
While the lake always attracts many birds, even more gather during the low-water season in search of food.
Guana River, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL
Wildlife Viewing at Guana Lake
Guana Lake was formed by damming a portion of the Guana River. Active wildlife management practices, combined with a diversity of natural communities, make Guana Lake an excellent place to view wildlife, especially birds. During April and October, particularly with a west wind or after a cold front, this is the best place in Northeast Florida to see peregrine falcons. More than 3,000 migratory ducks, American coots, common gallinules, and pied-billed grebes spend the winter at Guana Lake.
White pelicans, ospreys, and bald eagles often fish at the impounded lake. Watch for black-necked stilts, yellowlegs, dowitchers, and other shorebirds at the lake’s north end when water levels are low.
When visiting, you can help minimize environmental impacts by being a “Sustainable PVB Guest” — keep these recommendations in mind.
Details
Address: 505 Guana Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
Hours: GTM Visitor Center: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., Tuesday – Saturday. Trails: 8 a.m. – sunset.
Website: https://gtmnerr.org/
Expert Tips
✓ Do Not Feed Wildlife
Do not feed birds human food. Most human food is harmful to birds, especially bread. Feeding birds human food prevents them from eating what they need to survive. Birds can also come to rely on discarded fish instead of hunting for their own meals.
✓ Leave No Trace
Keep the “natural” in natural areas by packing out everything you bring in.
✓ Let Wildlife Eat Naturally
Let birds and animals eat their natural foods. Animals may become conditioned to handouts, eventually losing their fear of people or vehicles.
✓ Pets Are Welcome
Pets on leashes are allowed — use the available dispensers to clean up after your four-legged friend
✓ Record Your Observations
Add bird observations to the Guana River WMA eBird Hotspot to help track local wildlife.
✓ Observe Nature
Use the installed signage to identify birds and animals.