Tomoka State Park Bird Banding Station (TSPBBS) is an active 10 months out of the year station surrounded by water from canals off the Halifax River.  The area, known as Helicopter Island, being a spoil island consisting of varied habitat draws a large variety of species of birds as well as other wildlife.  It is the year round home to jays, titmice, cardinals, ground doves, woodpeckers, owls and wrens.  It also serves as a stopover for a sizable number of species including vireos, flycatchers, catbirds, warblers, sparrows and buntings to name a few.  Five migratory birds previously banded at the station have been recaptured suggesting they use the park as either a stopover or a wintering over destination.  A quick glance at the skies constantly yields a variety of raptors and water birds.  Peak fall migration is in October and spring migration is most active during April and May.  The banding station is in its third season of operation.  Visitors are always welcome.

Join Diane for a follow up visit from the May presentation by Meret Wilson on Bird Banding. We will visit an actual Banding Station and observe Meret at what she does best. Since this trip will require precise planning, it is advisable to contact Diane Reed at 829-9854, if you are interested in attending. Bird Banding is always weather dependent for the obvious protection of the birds. However, our plan is to visit the banding station and also visit the park. There will be a presentation by Meret on bird banding, and time permitting, we will do some local birding in the area. It is required that those attending are flexible in their scheduling for this trip.