Florida Bird Photography Locations

Wakodahatchee Wetlands

City: Delray Beach

GPS: N26 28.677 W80 08.810

Wakodahatchee Wetlands (also referred to as Wako) is another Wastewater Treatment Facility, which is operated by Palm Beach County. Here you will find a boardwalk to explore the facility. Depending on the time of year various species of birds and waterfowl can be found here. There has been a steady increase in the numbers of waders nesting here over the past few years. Some of the more sought after species here are the Least Bitterns which normally nest in the bulrush during late spring / early summer. Least Terns can also be found here around the same time diving in the water for small fish. This would be one of the better spots to acquire flight shots of Least Terns as they will be restricted to small areas to dive for food. Purple Gallinule are common here too. Alligators, Turtles, Marsh Rabbits, and occasionally Bobcats can also be found at Wako.

Most of the birds here are quite tolerant of people. Depending on what you want almost any lens can be productive here but you will find ones in the 300mm to 400mm range the most useful. As with any boardwalk vibration can be a problem. You can use a tripod and for a lower angle you can lay down on the boardwalk sticking your lens through the railings. Be aware not to block access for others. Many locals use this facility for walking / exercise, more so in the mornings.

The following link will take you to the Palm Beach County website which has more information about the facility. http://www.pbcgov.com/waterutilities/wakodahatchee/

Directions: From I-95 exit on Atlantic Blvd in Delrey Beach and head west. Turn right on to Jog Road and head north. You will find the entrance on the right side of the road just past a small electric transformer station. If you reach the main entrance to the Palm Beach Utilities Department you have gone a little too far.