Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center
A vital sanctuary for injured wild birds, offering a glimpse into Florida's avian life and conservation efforts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See birds at their most active
Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center
Best Time
See birds at their most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vital sanctuary for injured wild birds, offering a glimpse into Florida's avian life and conservation efforts.
"A wonderful place to stop and support local wildlife, especially during the pelican feeding!"
🎯 Support the Cause
A $10 donation is requested to aid in bird rescue and rehabilitation. Every bit helps!
⏰ Check Feeding Times
Pelican feeding is a must-see! Confirm the daily schedule upon arrival.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pelican Feeding Frenzy
Witness the dramatic feeding of pelicans, a crowd-pleasing spectacle showcasing these magnificent birds.
Sanctuary Residents
See a diverse array of rescued birds, including herons, cormorants, owls, and permanent residents like Flop the blue jay.
Golden Orb Spider Family
Beyond birds, discover fascinating local wildlife, including impressive spiders and their young.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Donation-Based Entry
Timing is Key for Feedings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Support the Cause
A $10 donation is requested to aid in bird rescue and rehabilitation. Every bit helps! +1
⏰ Check Feeding Times
Pelican feeding is a must-see! Confirm the daily schedule upon arrival.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing some walking, so wear comfy shoes for exploring the sanctuary.
📸 Capture the Moment
Bring your camera to photograph the diverse bird species and other wildlife.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Support the Cause
A $10 donation is requested to aid in bird rescue and rehabilitation. Every bit helps! +1
⏰ Check Feeding Times
Pelican feeding is a must-see! Confirm the daily schedule upon arrival.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing some walking, so wear comfy shoes for exploring the sanctuary.
📸 Capture the Moment
Bring your camera to photograph the diverse bird species and other wildlife.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center a worthwhile stop, especially for those traveling through the Keys. While some note the requested donation, many appreciate the opportunity to support a good cause and see a variety of rescued birds. The pelican feeding is a frequently mentioned highlight, offering an engaging experience for all ages.
"Overall i would say it is a fun experience. It is directly located on your way to key west or a southern key from key largo. It really is no inconvenience at all to visit this place if you are just traveling through.
Even though they say it's free they want a 10$ donation to help their cause. Which i mean is nothing wrong but they advertise it quite aggressively. To see the few birds they have is definitely not worth the 10$ entrance fee. It is a nice place to stop and stretch your legs but you won't spend more time than a few minutes here unless you are a bird enthusiast.
Overall I would recommend a stop if you are travelling through but don't expect too much."
Marc Meier
"What a wonderful place. We saw some really amazing birds and spiders! There was a gorgeous Golden Orb Spider mama with her babies. If you are reading the poor reviews on this place it is from a person who does not understand what this and other true sanctuaries do! The audacity to complain about a free experience where you get to see animals up close and personal blows my mind. If you are going here and upset that you are asked to VOLUNTARILY donate to help their cause and then going to complain about it, arrgh. But I digress, this place is amazing! The animal habitats are well maintained and large. The variety of birds that you get to see is amazing! Can't say enough about this place!"
Nekol Daley
"This place is unique and God Bless all those that maintain all the birds. 🦅 It’s worth the stop and your donation truly helps! We went too early to purchase a gift. Which is located down the street."
DeAnna Mancini
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The center is conveniently located on the way to Key West from Key Largo, making it an easy stop for travelers. It's about 7 miles from the heart of Key Largo.
Yes, parking is available for visitors.
Absolutely! It's a perfect stop along the scenic Overseas Highway, requiring no detour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The center is advertised as free, but a $10 donation per person is strongly encouraged to support their rehabilitation efforts.
The sanctuary is open to the public from sunrise to sunset.
No advance booking is required. You can visit anytime during operating hours.
While not explicitly stated, supporting their cause through donations is highly encouraged. Check their official website for online donation options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of native and migratory wild birds, including herons, cormorants, owls, and pelicans. Some birds are permanent residents due to injuries.
Yes, daily pelican feeding sessions are a highlight. Keep an eye out for special fundraising events like 'Flocks on the Rocks'.
Yes, it's a great educational stop for families to learn about local wildlife and conservation.
Most visitors spend a few minutes to an hour, depending on their interest in birds and if they catch a feeding session.
Direct interaction is generally not permitted to ensure the birds' well-being, but you can observe them closely in their habitats.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is allowed, and it's a great spot to capture images of various bird species.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light. Catching the pelican feeding can also lead to dynamic shots.
While generally permitted, always be respectful of the birds and their environment. Avoid using flash photography directly at the animals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a relatively quick visit, making it perfect for shorter attention spans. The center's mission of rescue and rehabilitation can also spark important conversations about empathy and caring for animals. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for exploring the grounds.
🚗 Travelers Passing Through
Even a brief visit can be rewarding, especially if you time it for the pelican feeding. Consider the requested donation as a small price for supporting a vital conservation effort while breaking up a longer drive.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mission: Rescue, Rehabilitate, Release
+1Their work extends beyond immediate care. For birds that cannot be released back into the wild due to permanent injuries or imprinting on humans, the center provides a permanent home in their sanctuary. This ensures these birds receive lifelong care and can still contribute to education and conservation efforts.
+1This commitment to wildlife conservation is deeply appreciated by visitors and the community. The center's efforts are vital for maintaining the delicate ecosystem of the Florida Keys and protecting its diverse avian population.
+1A Sanctuary for All Feathered Friends
Beyond the more common residents, the center also cares for migratory birds, playing a crucial role in their journey and recovery. The Florida Keys Wild Bird Center is a testament to the dedication of its staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to provide specialized care for each individual bird.
It's not just about the birds; the sanctuary also provides a safe haven for other local wildlife, such as the impressive Golden Orb Spiders and their families, offering a broader glimpse into the Keys' natural biodiversity.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit