At the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, there is an abundance of nature and wildlife to observe. Over 500 species of wildlife and more than 140 species of freshwater and saltwater fish have called the refuge home. Additionally, the refuge is a popular place for birdwatching and to date 358 species have been identified here. Black Point Wildlife Drive is a 7-mile, self-guided automobile tour where you will have a chance to see birds, alligators and other wildlife.

I started the day by driving the Gator Creek Loops before entering the Refuge, getting a preliminary view of the watershed and wildlife. I arrived near sunrise but with my luck the day started off with fog and heavy cloud cover. Still an enjoyable ride and some acceptable views of nesting and flying birds.

After hiking the Scrub Ridge trail an unimpressive mile plus loop I headed to the Manatee Observation Deck to see a couple but the water was so cloudy photos were useless.