Whether you know it or not, fall in Florida is pretty darn magical. We’re not just talking about how the temperature takes a slight dip but still is warm enough to enjoy the sunshine on your face during the daytime. We’re talking about how the tiny town of Big Pine Key, Florida has one of the most magical wildlife spectacles in the country. Grab your binoculars, strap on your camera, because this is one seasonal spectacular you do not want to miss.

While you probably would expect to find quite a few deer in the National Key Deer Refuge in Big Pine Key, Florida, there is something else you should keep your eyes peeled for when you visit.

TripAdvisor Mike C.

Birders and animal enthusiasts can unite to scan the fall skies over Florida to grab a rare glimpse of the migrating peregrine falcons.

Flickr Thomas

These incredible birds can be flying as fast as 200-miles per hour as they make their way to South America for a seasonal migration.

Flickr Jean and Fred

However, the peregrine falcon makes a pit-stop in South Florida before crossing over the Gulf of Mexico.

Flickr Paul Balfe

Visiting the National Key Deer Refuge will give you a great vantage point of these wonderful birds, not to mention provide resources that can help visitors navigate the skies and the migration paths.

Flickr Chris M Morris

The opportunity to spot these rare birds flash through the Florida skies in flight is from early to mid-October.

Flickr Big Pine Key Fishing Lodge

Peregrine falcons can fly high or low, depending on whether or not they are simply soaring or attempting to hunt, so make sure to have binoculars on hand.

Flickr Teddy Llovet

But if you’re looking for a chance to spot these beautiful birds on their way to the south for the winter, then head to the small town of Big Pine Key.

Flickr Big Pine Key Fishing Lodge

Get your binoculars out, because the time to see the peregrine falcons is now! The address for the National Key Deer Refuge is 28950 Watson Blvd., Big Pine Key, FL 33043-6087. The refuge is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekends. To find out more information about the refuge, make sure to visit the website.

TripAdvisor Mike C.

Flickr Thomas

Flickr Jean and Fred

Flickr Paul Balfe

Flickr Chris M Morris

Flickr Big Pine Key Fishing Lodge

Flickr Teddy Llovet

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