Photo by J. Chamberlain
The Bird Blind at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park
The bird blind in Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park is located on the edge of Grassy Lake, providing expansive views of birds and other wildlife. The blind provides openings for both seated and standing viewing. Additionally, there is a large panel of illustrations for the species commonly seen in Grassy Lake to assist visitors who may not be familiar with local birds. The avian illustrations on the panel are provided by renowned local artist Ernest Simmons, and the additional informational drawings were donated by artist Janet Litzel.
The blind is most easily reached by parking in the corral, then walking along the path past the corral for about 1/4 of a mile, where you will see a white shell path to your right, which leads to the blind.
The bird blind itself is an eBird hotspot (https://ebird.org/hotspot/L11228862) and to date 148 species have been recorded from this location.
History
Building a bird blind was a long-term goal of Pasco Audubon (then West Pasco Audubon), that finally moved from concept to plan in 2019. That year, architectural drawings were completed and donated by Ed Hoffman, and planning was approved by Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) and Pasco County. Funding was provided by Pasco Audubon members, as well as a very substantial grant given by Duke Energy. Construction was carried out in early 2020 and the blind opened in April of that year. However, this was just at the beginning of the Covid lockdown, which prevented a larger celebratory opening event. The handcrafted bench was made and donated soon after by Rick Chamberlain.
In 2025 it came to our attention that the blind was deteriorating in some areas, and we worked with the park staff to establish a suitable time to undertake necessary repair work. The park provided most materials, and the work was undertaken by members Rick Chamberlain, Joe Colontonio and Bob Burkard, along with Rick’s son, Jarrett. All materials that were failing were replaced, and the finished product was stained. It should now withstand the weather for many years into the future.
To learn more about the Bird Blind at Starkey Park, and its ongoing upkeep, please email [email protected].