St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge

St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge is located 25 miles south of the City of Tallahassee along Florida's Gulf Coast. It is one of the best-known wildlife refuges in the country, especially for birds. The area features freshwater swamps, salt marshes, pine forests and several lakes. It is open to the public and is a great place to view wildlife and learn about the local wildlife and the challenges these animals face. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, hunting, butterfly and bird watching and wildlife viewing. The St. Marks lighthouse is located at the refuge right along the Apalachee Bay. There are frequently special events held at the refuge including viewings of butterfly and bird migrations, as well as wildflower blooming events. The refuge was established in 1931 in an effort to help wintering birds. There are more than 300 species of birds at the refuge, including 98 that are nesting on site. Included in this collection is 19 species of ducks, falcons, hawks, shorebirds, bald eagles and woodpeckers. In addition to the birds, visitors might catch sight of sea turtles and manatees. The refuge is a great place for environmental education, as well as an opportunity to take authentic wildlife photographs.