Birding in Kissimmee

Kissimmee is considered a prime location for bird watchers, boasting of its diverse species and hotspots.

With the Great Florida Birding Trail spanning over 800 miles across the state, Kissimmee is situated in the heart of the trail, providing birders with the opportunity to see various bird species, including rare and exotic ones. According to ebird.com, the area has been observed by 5,737 active birders who have seen 284 species across 82 hotspots.

Notably, Osceola County hosts the largest concentration of nesting bald eagles in the contiguous 48 states, concentrated around the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, and is also a re-entry location for the nearly extinct whooping crane, which are concentrated in Kenansville. Kissimmee is also home to the vibrant Roseate Spoonbill, which enchants visitors when they catch a glimpse of them around the destination.

Moreover, Kissimmee has a mix of year-round birds and snowbirds, with the latter arriving from Northeast, Midwest, and Canada. They usually arrive from late October to early November and leave at the end of March, except for the swallow-tailed kite, which migrates 5,000 miles from South America to spend the summer in Kissimmee.

The number of bird watchers in the US is approximately 45 million, with 16 million being active "away-from-home" birders who travel at least a mile to see birds, according to a report by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. In 2016, total spending by bird watchers was $39 billion, with $10 billion trip-related expenses.

On average, away-from-home birders spend about $614 per trip, contributing to a total economic impact of $96 billion.

Kissimmee's unique birding opportunities and diverse species make it a must-visit destination for bird watchers, both for curious families and die-hard enthusiasts alike. For more details about birding in the area or to join the Kissimmee Birding Club, visit www.experiencekissimmee.com/KissimmeeBirdingClub.

About Experience Kissimmee:

Experience Kissimmee, the official tourism authority for Osceola County, welcomes you to the big, bold heart of Florida! Just 25 minutes away from Orlando International Airport (MCO), Kissimmee is the perfect destination for those seeking a balanced and unforgettable vacation experience. With world-renowned theme parks and attractions, thrilling outdoor activities, and endless Florida sunshine, Kissimmee has something for everyone.

As the Vacation Home Capital of the World®, Kissimmee boasts a wide range of accommodation options, from cozy two-bedroom condos to opulent 15-bedroom mansions, providing visitors with the perfect home-away-from-home experience.

Media Contact:

Experience Kissimmee Communications Department

[email protected]