Sunrise Flyoff Boat Tour by Rising Tide Explorers (Festival of Birds)
Details
## Rate
$130/person
## Description
Venture out into the estuary at dawn to witness a spectacular event seen by very few in Southwest Florida as over a thousand birds fly off of the famous Bird Rookery Island in a massive unified fly-off! Meet at the gate to Shell Island Road where your biologist captain will lead you to the Rookery Bay Field Station to board one of our comfortable vessels. We will quietly make our way through Rookery Bay under the veil of night as your biologist captain explains the wonders of the estuary en route to the famous Bird Rookery Island. Arriving just before the break of light, witness the stirrings of over 1,000 birds who have chosen to sleep in the protection of the mangrove island. Increasing chatter and rustling as the different species get ready to start their day, you will begin to see them fly off into the estuary little by little. Just before sunrise as light breaches the mangroves, the most spectacular display occurs as the majority of the island's avian residents take off ALL AT ONCE!! A jaw-dropping experience that you'll never forget as the birds blanket the surrounding landscape to start their day in their home, the Rookery Bay Reserve.
This 2-hour nature cruise captained by the area's only active local biologist captains that will allow you to surround yourself with some of the most beautiful wildlife Southwest Florida has to offer! Learn about the nesting habits and migrations of our local bird species before cruising back in the morning sun!
## What to Wear
Winter wind gusts coming off of Rookery Bay can be quite chilly and blustery so please dress warmly for the weather. Gloves and hats are recommended.
## What to Bring
Jacket, hat, gloves, binoculars, camera, water, insect repellant, bird field guide.
Must Sign Up at https://rookerybay.org/events/festival-of-birds/