|
Description:
Cedar Keys NWR is in Levy County, Florida approximately 60 miles southwest of Gainesville. It was established in 1929 as a refuge and breeding ground for colonial birds. Today the refuge comprises 12 islands ranging in size from 1 to 165 acres. Four of the islands, Snake, Deadman's, North, and Seahorse Key are designated as wilderness areas. The most recent addition to the refuge is Atsena Otie Key, owned by the Suwannee River Water Management District and managed as part of Cedar Keys refuge. The refuge is one of the largest nesting areas in north Florida for colonial birds, including while ibis, brown pelican, common and snowy egret, great blue and tri-colored herons, and double crested cormorants. Other species include Ospreys, frigatebirds, and roseate spoonbills. The interiors of most refuge islands are dominated by maritime forests. Shorelines are bordered with narrow bands of sandy beaches alternating with salt marshes. All of the islands are surrounded by mud flats and seagrass beds which make them relatively inaccessible during low tides. Directions:
Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge is located off shore from the quaint town of Cedar Key. Cedar Key is located in Levy County Florida at the end of State Road 24.
|
