Oscar Scherer State Park birding guide
The best local bet for the Florida Scrub-Jay, Florida's only endemic bird, plus wintering eagles.
Go or skip today?
Checking today's weather…
See what people are reporting: recent sightings on eBird.
Quick facts
- Where
- 1843 S. Tamiami Trail, Osprey, FL 34229 (Osprey, on US 41, Sarasota County)
- Hours
- 8 a.m. to sunset, 365 days a year.
- Fees
- $5 per vehicle at the state park. Scherer Thaxton Preserve is free.
- Best time
- Morning, especially on the open Green Trail, which gets very hot where shade is lacking.
Overview
Oscar Scherer protects scrubby flatwoods for the Florida Scrub-Jay, the only bird species found nowhere else but Florida. The Florida Birding Trail says the park has one of the densest scrub-jay populations in southwest Florida, and Sarasota Audubon calls it one of the best chances in the region to see one.
The park has about 15 miles of color-coded trails, from paved to deep soft sand. eBirders have reported about 230 species here. Bald Eagles nest in the park in winter.
Birds to expect by season
Late October and November
Scrub-jays are here all year and might be seen on any trail. In winter, look for nesting Bald Eagles, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Sharp-shinned Hawk, and Northern Harrier. Oaks along the shaded trails hold warblers, vireos, and gnatcatchers.
- Florida Scrub-Jay
- Bald Eagle
- Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
- Sharp-shinned Hawk
- Northern Harrier
- American Kestrel
- Red-headed Woodpecker
- Eastern Towhee
- Loggerhead Shrike
- Eastern Meadowlark
Year-round regulars
- Florida Scrub-Jay
- Red-headed Woodpecker
- Great Horned Owl
- Red-shouldered Hawk
- Sandhill Crane
Spring and summer
March to May, Bachman's Sparrow sings on the Yellow Trail north of Big Lake. Swallow-tailed Kites are here in spring and summer.
Where to park
Main entrance at 1843 S. Tamiami Trail (US 41), Osprey, just south of Blackburn Point Rd. For a free side entrance, Scherer Thaxton Preserve (13125 Honore Ave) has a lot, restrooms, and trails that connect into the park via the Yellow Trail.
Trails and viewing spots
- Scrubby flatwoods trails for scrub-jays.
- Green Trail: raptors and woodpeckers, including Red-headed Woodpecker.
- Lester Finley Trail and South Creek Nature Trail: shaded, and good for songbirds in migration.
- Lake Osprey and the campground: songbirds during migration.
- Yellow Trail: links to Scherer Thaxton Preserve and the Legacy Trail.
Tips
- Some sandy trail sections are deep and soft, so wear real shoes.
- Dogs are allowed on a 6-foot leash.
- Sarasota and Venice Audubon sometimes run guided walks here. Check their calendars, or call the ranger office at 941-483-5956.
Accessibility
Trail surfaces range from paved and wheelchair-accessible to deep soft sand. The park and Florida Birding Trail list accessible amenities, accessible restrooms, and accessible parking.
FAQ
Where can I see a Florida Scrub-Jay near Sarasota?
Oscar Scherer State Park in Osprey is one of the best local spots. Scrub-jays live in the park's scrubby flatwoods and might be seen on any trail.
How much is Oscar Scherer State Park?
Florida State Parks lists $5 per vehicle. The adjoining Scherer Thaxton Preserve on Honore Ave is free.
What are the hours?
8 a.m. to sunset, every day of the year.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
Sources
Checked 2026-10-29. Hours, fees, and closures change, so confirm with the managing agency before you go.