Florida’s fall weather is wonderful, and on this particular Thursday it was perfect. There was no noticeable humidity and the sun was in and out of the light gray fluffy clouds. Our three-car caravan, shuttling 12 people, drove in and out of drizzle; however, we had no rain after we reached Emerson Point Preserve.

Emerson Point Preserve is located on Snead Island in Manatee County. It extends out into the Manatee River and Tampa Bay where the two converge at the point of the peninsula. It’s obvious why there would be bird life, as it is convenient to a vast area for feeding. The 270-acre preserve is state-owned and managed by the Manatee County, and boasts a variety of habitat.