One of the coolest things about living in the Venice area is how close we are to all these amazing parks, preserves, and reserves. It’s like we’re surrounded by nature’s own playground! One of the highlights is definitely getting to see eagles and other wildlife in their natural habitat. There are several eagle nests right in our backyard, and it’s all thanks to folks like Venetian resident Rick Cordner, an Audubon Eagle Watch Volunteer, who keeps a close watch on these nests and shares his observations.
If you’re curious, check out the Audubon Florida EagleWatch Public Nest Map. You’ll spot some nests really close to us. If you go to these nests, suggest you bring binoculars.
SA058 & SA080 at Oscar Scherer Park, on the left. On Sunday mornings, Park volunteers have scopes set up for viewing SA058. See map on the left. (There is some concern about this nest — after incubation, both adults were recently seen away from the nest.). SA080 is a bit of a trek out to marker 12A.
SA011 is in Scherer Thaxton Preserve (see trail map) off Honore Avenue. This nest is close to Marker 10 on the map.
The image on the left is a photo of eagles at SA096. This nest is just north of us off Gene Green Road — the road does not extend the entire way to the nest. It is recommended to visit this nest only on Sundays to avoid cement trucks and other commercial traffic along the road.
The image on the right is at SA088 which is in a cell tower off Laurel Road on Vistera Blvd. The eagles have been building a nest in the east tower, however, the nest needs to be checked for recent occupancy.
The Audubon EagleWatch Program is pretty awesome too. They’ve got over 600 volunteers keeping an eye on more than 1000 eagle nests across Florida, spreading awareness and working hard on conservation efforts for these magnificent birds.
If you’re thinking about volunteering or just observing these nests, remember to do so respectfully. Please don’t disturb the nests, and keep your distance – at least 330 feet away on the ground. Let’s help keep these eagles safe and sound in their homes! Pictures of the eagles were supplied by Rick Cordner.