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| Manatees swim the waters of Round Island. Photo by Bob Montanaro. | |
Round Island Round Island has two components to it that, in many respects, offer the same wildlife viewing opportunities as Sebastian Inlet State Park but on a much smaller, less crowded scale. The same habitats are present at Round Island as at Sebastian Inlet: open water, beach, dune, coastal strand, maritime hammock, and mangrove swamp. Round Island also has some interesting historical features like an exhibit of beach fortifications from when the area was used as a training ground during World War II. An historical marker tells of the German submarine attacks just off the coast, which also took place during World War II. Round Island Park is located at the south end of Indian River County just before one crosses over into St. Lucie County on State Road A1A. State Road A1A splits Round Island Park in half. The east side is on the ocean and contains a playground for children, along with a lifeguard-protected beach. The west side is on the Indian River Lagoon and features a boat ramp and boardwalk. There is a connecting trail that goes over a bridge leading to an island that has an observation deck and an observation tower which both overlook the Lagoon. There are restrooms and drinking fountains on both sides of the park along with covered pavilions for picnics. From the bridge, one is very likely to spot Bottlenose Dolphin and Manatee in the surrounding cove. They often come quite close to the bridge allowing for incredible views of these beautiful creatures. From the observation deck on the island at the end of the trail one can get good views of the seagrasses, and also the fish that live in the grass, that play an important part in the health of the Lagoon. An information sign details the different types of seagrass one may see. The nearby three-story observation tower provides a panoramic view of the Lagoon along with being a great place for bird watching---especially on the wing as the birds fly by. Information signs show pictures of the birds one is most likely to see. Besides the usual wading birds like the Great Egret and the White Ibis, and bird of prey like the Osprey, do not be surprised to see the bright pink plumage of the Roseate Spoonbill flying by or wading in nearby shallow water. Look for smaller birds like Crows, Blue Jays, and Mockingbirds on the heavily wooded island. Ospreys like to perch at the top of the trees and their shrill call is often heard. |
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images and text copyright Pelican Island Audubon Society. E-mail: piaudubon@bellsouth.net |