Take a Hike: Perry Oldenburg Wildlife and Environmental Area
Hernando Audubon Society offers free field trips to different areas here in Hernando County and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation has some amazing properties that are open to the public for the whole family to enjoy and explore.
This 380-acre property was acquired in 1995 in honor of Perry W. Oldenburg, a wildlife biologist dedicated to preserving sandhill communities as well as wildlife habitats.
“This property that is a key conservation linchpin that supports species all across this region that otherwise would be in serious trouble,” said Joe Murphy, Education Chair for the Hernando Audubon Society.
These field trips are not only for bird lovers but nature enthusiasts as well. “We are trying to expand the depth of our outings other than birding; this outing is focusing more on ecosystem,” Murphy said.
As the 1.5 mile trail ventures through the sandhills and hardwood hammock, beautiful trees flourish with with fresh growth and the resurrection ferns vibrantly spread across the branches.
During the hike, a great barn owl made an appearance and over twenty-three bird species were identified. “This is a great opportunity to learn a lot from the some of the best birders in Hernando County,” stated Murphy.
“I have a check list and today was the American kestrel, which was one of the birds I saw.” Lyndy Beem said with excitement. Beem drove from Inverness to participate in this field trip.
Whether it is a weekday or weekend, Perry Oldenburg Wildlife and Environmental Area is open to the public. Kids especially enjoy the outdoors. One way to make a hike educational, is to try to identify certain bugs and fungi living in the forest. You can get involved in other ways, from becoming a citizen scientist to volunteering. Check out http://myfwc.com/get-involved/ for more information.
This area is located just 5 miles from North Brooksville, so it is a convenient place to explore or take a quick hike. ” As beautiful as it is… it needs more visitors,” Murphy explained.
Joe Murphy has been a volunteer with Hernando Audubon Society since 2010, worked many years with environmental groups and over fifteen years with FWC.
“It’s always nice to see people relaxing and enjoying nature, it brings out the best in us.”
For more information, check out these links:
Perry Oldenburg Wildlife and Environmental Area: http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/lead/perry-oldenburg/
Hernando Audubon Society: http://www.hernandoaudubon.org/
Remember… when you venture out please be careful and aware of wildlife surroundings. Always have a backpack with necessities, such as water, bug spray, medicine, snacks, and charged cell phone for example. Never go alone or go off the trail unless you are with an experienced hiker. Please respect these areas and don’t leave trash behind.
Have you been hiking? We would love to read your stories and see your photos! Please feel free send them to editor@hernandosun.com or post them on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/hernandosun352/?fref=nf