Photo by P. Ely
The Bird Blind at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park
The bird blind in Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park is located on the edge of Grassy Lake, providing expansive views of birds and other wildlife. The blind provides openings for both seated and standing viewing. Additionally, there is a large panel of illustrations for the species commonly seen in Grassy Lake to assist visitors who may not be familiar with local birds. The avian illustrations on the panel are provided by renowned local artist Ernest Simmons, and the additional informational drawings were donated by artist Janet Litzel.
The blind is most easily reached by parking in the corral, then walking along the path past the corral about 1/4 of a mile, where you will see a white shell path to your right, which leads to the blind.
The bird blind itself is an eBird hotspot (https://ebird.org/hotspot/L11228862), and 148 species have so far been recorded as seen from the blind.
History
Building a bird blind was a long-term goal of Pasco Audubon (then West Pasco Audubon), that finally moved from concept to plan in 2019, with architectural drawings completed and donated by Ed Hoffman, and planning approved by SWFWMD and Pasco County. Funding was provided by Pasco Audubon members and a very substantial grant was given by Duke Energy. Construction was done in early 2020 and the blind opened in April of that year. However, this was just at the beginning of Covid lockdown, which prevented a larger celebratory opening event. The handcrafted bench was made and donated soon after by Rick Chamberlain.
In 2025 it came to our attention that the blind was deteriorating in some areas, and we worked with the park staff to establish a suitable time to undertake necessary repair work. The park provided most materials, and the work was undertaken by members Rick Chamberlain, Joe Colontonio and Bob Burkard, along with Rick’s son, Jarrett. All materials that were failing were replaced, and the finished product was stained. It should now withstand the weather for many years into the future.
To learn more about the Bird Blind at Starkey Park, and ongoing upkeep, please email info@pascoaudubon.com.