Join Conservation Florida for a day of celebrating wild Florida at Bellini Preserve!
Presented by Duke Energy, with support from Polk County, Conservation Florida’s Bioblitz at Bellini Preserve offers you the chance to explore the preserve and become a scientist for the day!
Come out, learn about this permanently protected place, and help us log some of the plants and animals that now call the preserve home.
RSVP HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1782478684729
So what exactly is a “bioblitz”?
A Bioblitz is a community science event where people come together to find and identify as many plants, animals, and other living things as possible in one area. Participants can use apps like iNaturalist and eBird to record their observations, helping scientists learn more about the local ecosystem. If you are interested in helping with this, be sure to download these apps before the event!
Hike Schedule
Explore the beauty and biodiversity of Bellini Preserve through four guided hikes, with two hikes running each hour. Topics include:
Birding
Herpetology and Entomology
Florida Ecology, Natural History, and Land Management
Florida Botany and Mycology
If you choose not to go on a guided hike, you are welcome to explore the preserve and track what you find on your own! There is no requirement to join a guided hike.
Know Before You Go:
This event is open to all ages and interests, whether you’re a seasoned ecologist or simply love Florida’s wild places.
No Pets: Please leave your pets at home to help us observe more wildlife.
Dress Appropriately: Wear outdoor clothes, long sleeves, sun protection, and be prepared for potential muddy and wet conditions.
Limited Restrooms: We will have 2 portable bathrooms on site.
Limited Parking: Please carpool if possible.
Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
Practice Leave No Trace!
Download iNaturalist & eBird before arriving.
About the Preserve
Bellini Preserve was permanently protected by Conservation Florida, in partnership with the Bellini Family, Polk County Natural Lands, the Department of Defense, and other dedicated partners, ensuring that this vital piece of the Florida Wildlife Corridor will be safeguarded for generations to come.
Thank you to the Bellini family for their generous support in making the protection of this preserve and many others possible.