2 days in Central Florida (1 Viewer)

I am going to a conference in Orlando at the end of October. I am thinking about arrive 2 days early with my camera gear. I will rent a car so I am reasonably mobile. First question, is it worth bring the camera gear (Canon 40D, 300mm, 500mm) at that time of year and that location. Second question - if it is worth it, where are the best locations - my free days are Friday and Saturday - I am looking for good photography opportunities in locations that don't get very busy.

Thanks

Michael

Hi Michael

Take your camera gear? - Definitely!!

Time of year? - Excellent

Where to go? - With transport, you're really spoilt for choice so I think the problem is making best use of the limited time you've got. If you search this sub forum you should find lots of recommended places.
Places I would definitely recommend - Merritt Island and Blackpoint Drive. For somewhere closer to Orlando, Orlando Wetlands Centre is good and in my experience doesn't get too busy. Depending on what you're interested in seeing, Meade Garden is also worth a visit for woodpeckers and other parkland/woodland spp.

Good luck and enjoy

kevin

Michael,

I agree with Kevin and would also recommend a visit to Gatorland. Lots of very close opportunities for photos of Herons, Anhingas and the like. Check my blog for some ideas and Report - I visited the Orlando area in late October and early November 2007.

http://robinsbirds.blogspot.com/2007_11_01_archive.html

Regards
Robin

Late October should be a very good time. It's starting to get cool up north so the snowbirds (human and avian) are starting to return. I agree that Merritt Island is excellent, you hardly have to get out of the car. That area also has Canaveral National Seashore which is very good. If there's a cold front while you're here, drive up to Blue Spring State Park to see the manatees, not birds of course, but very impressive. Blue Spring is a warm spring and manatees love warm water. If you have time, come visit us in Mount Dora, we're a charming community on the lake.