Amelia Island Florida Visitor Guide 2009 - (Page 29) Nature & Wildlife Photo by Elizabeth Wilkes Photography From pristine beaches to canopied forests, Amelia Island is a nature-lovers paradise. Photo by Sandra Baker-Hinton A melia Island’s crown jewel is her natural areas that give visitors a glimpse of the original Floridian landscape. Fort Clinch State Park is located on northern Amelia Island and features a six-mile hiking and biking trail, a two-mile pier, and guided nature tours. Amelia Island State Park is the only park in Florida to offer horseback riding on the beach. Located where the Nassau Sound meets the Atlantic Ocean, the park offers a panoramic view of the ocean, salt marshes, and coastal forests. The Talbot Islands, located just south of Amelia Island, are some of the last undeveloped barrier islands in the United States. Activities on these islands include biking, hiking, kayaking, and more. A diverse range of habitats each house a host of wildlife. River otters, bobcats, and a variety of birds are among the islands’ inhabitants. Birdwatchers will find paradise on Amelia Island. Five stops on the Great Florida Birding Trail are located here – and with such distinct habitats, a variety of native and migrating birds can be seen. Because of Amelia Island’s abundance of natural areas, it is also a haven for endangered species. Manatees are a common sight in the waters of the Amelia River. These docile creatures enjoy the warm refuge of the waters around the Fernandina Beach marina. Boaters are advised to take extra caution so as not to harm this threatened species. Sea Turtles find a favorite nesting sight on Amelia Island’s Beaches. From May through October, turtles lay their eggs on the beach and hatchlings make their way back to the ocean. Because the hatchlings use the moonlight to find their way, those staying on the beach are expected to keep their exterior lights off at night. Northern Right Whales travel from Canada each winter to Amelia Island to give birth. There are less than 400 left, so to see one is truly an unforgettable experience. Learn about Amelia Island’s Fishing & Boating on page 15. 29
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