The pandemic (Coronavirus) has made 2020 an interesting year. For over 15 years, I always took a two weeks vacation internationally. I still had plans to visit Aruba but being from a “hot” state, I made the choice to cancel. Boy, was I disappointed and annoyed.
Anywho, I started looking for something safe, different and fun to do in South Florida. Well, I stumbled upon Flamingo Gardens located in Fort Lauderdale (Davie). One thing that sparked my interest most is that it’s a animal sanctuary / rescue center, not a zoo.
Actually, it was started as a botanical garden almost a century ago by the Floyd and Jane Wray and has since then grown into one of the largest Wildlife Sanctuaries in the area. Therefore, my interest was piqued. I didn’t really know what to expect, but at the end of the self-guided tour, I had a fabulous time.
Paths and trails
The park is full of lovely walking trails that are great for strollers and wheelchairs; and bridges with small canals flowing under them where you can see swans as well. Along the path, you will find decorative or creative designs of the wildlife.
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Wildlife
The original sanctuary was mainly for birds. Since then Flamingo Gardens added more wildlife. There are big cages along all the trails
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Aviary
The first stop on the trails is the aviary. When you initially walk in there is a sea of birds in the trees, in the ponds, on top of the railings, or just walking along. I wish I could tell you about the types of birds, but I was so proud of myself that I could easily identify a pelican and a duck. 🤪
Peacocks
The path had so many peacocks and I was just waiting for one to open their plume. Did you know only male peacock has plumes? They use it to get the girl. It never happened or maybe I was only looking at girls. 😒
Flamingos
The Flamingo Gardens wouldn’t be complete without flamingos. 🙂
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Otters
Well, I found out that otters are extremely playful.![](https://i0.wp.com/www.internationalcaty.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/img_20200813_1237522110563369550853033.jpg?resize=1280%2C959&ssl=1)
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Turtles
There was several types of turtle or are they tortoises. Some came out of hiding others just chilled.
Toucan
As I was exciting, I saw this beautiful creature. I think he/she is giving me the side eye.
My Take On It:
The serenity, the animals, the large cages, the shady open spaces is just the right mix for a great day out.
Important info to guide you:
Due to pandemic (COVID-19), strict protocol was in placed. First of all, you must purchase your ticket online and reserve a spot. Secondly, you must have a mask on and follow social distance.
Flamingo Gardens
- Hours: open 7 days a week 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
- Address: 3750 South Flamingo Road, Davie, FL 33330-1614
- Phone: 954-473-2955
- Cost: $21.95 Age 12+ ■ $15.95 Ages 4-11 ■ Ages 3 and under are free ■ $17.56 Seniors (Age 65+)
- Website: www.flamingogardens.org