T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Memorial Reserve birding guide
Sarasota County's huge wilderness reserve east of Venice, with Bachman's Sparrows, Red-headed Woodpeckers, Barred Owls, and Swallow-tailed Kites.
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Quick facts
- Where
- 1800 Mabry Carlton Pkwy, Venice, FL 34292 (Venice (east, Mabry Carlton Pkwy), Sarasota County)
- Hours
- 6 a.m. to sunset, per Sarasota County. It may close during floods.
- Fees
- Free.
- Best time
- Early morning from late fall through spring. Winter is best for bitterns and ducks, spring for nesting kites and Bachman's Sparrows. In the summer rainy season, trails often flood.
Overview
The Carlton Reserve is a Sarasota County preserve of more than 24,500 acres of wet prairie, oak hammock, pine flatwoods, and forested swamp. More than 100 miles of connected trails include the 12-mile Myakka wilderness trail, which continues north to Myakka River State Park.
Sarasota Audubon says eBirders have reported more than 165 species here. Winter brings bitterns and ducks, and the reserve's breeding birds include Swallow-tailed Kite, Eastern Bluebird, and Bachman's Sparrow.
Birds to expect by season
Late October and November
Winter visitors are arriving: look for American Kestrel, ducks, and American and Least Bitterns along with the common long-legged waders. Migrating songbirds mix with the residents.
- American Kestrel
- American Bittern
- Least Bittern
- ducks
- herons and egrets
- migrant songbirds
- Wood Duck
- Barred Owl
- Red-headed Woodpecker
- Wild Turkey
Year-round regulars
- Wood Duck
- Barred Owl
- Wild Turkey
- Red-headed Woodpecker
- other woodpeckers
Spring and summer
Nesting season brings Swallow-tailed Kites, Eastern Bluebirds, and Bachman's Sparrows, and spring migration brings more songbirds through.
Where to park
The main parking area is at the reserve entrance, 1800 Mabry Carlton Pkwy in Venice. The Visitors Cabin and the start of the short loop trails are near the lot.
Trails and viewing spots
- Two connected loop trails near the parking lot circle depression marshes. Together they make an easy-to-moderate 1.9-mile walk through the reserve's habitats.
- Back-country trails, including the 12-mile Myakka wilderness trail toward Myakka River State Park, for longer hikes. Check trail conditions first.
Tips
- The reserve can close during flooding. Check the county park page or call 941-861-5000 before you go.
- No dogs are allowed.
- This is a wilderness park: trails can be rugged and are often unshaded. Wear sturdy shoes and a sun hat, and bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and water.
- Sarasota Audubon suggests checking in at the Visitors Cabin near the lot so volunteer staff know your hiking plans.
- Guided birding walks may be offered by Sarasota Audubon, Venice Area Audubon, or Sarasota County; check their calendars.
- Lincer Preserve, reached through the Carlton Reserve, is closed until about Jan. 30, 2027 while its access bridge is out, per the county's park status report.
Accessibility
Sarasota Audubon describes the 1.9-mile loop near the parking lot as wheelchair accessible for a short distance. Beyond that, trails are unpaved, rugged, and often without shade.
FAQ
Is the Carlton Reserve good for birding?
Yes. More than 165 species have been reported on eBird, including breeding Bachman's Sparrows, Swallow-tailed Kites, and Eastern Bluebirds, and resident Red-headed Woodpeckers and Barred Owls.
Is the Carlton Reserve free?
Yes. There is no admission fee.
Can I bring my dog to the Carlton Reserve?
No. Dogs are not permitted.
Is the Carlton Reserve open after heavy rain?
Not always. The reserve may close during flooding, so check the county park page or call 941-861-5000 first.
Sources
Checked 2026-10-31. Hours, fees, and closures change, so confirm with the managing agency before you go.