By Christy Piña

Looking for a way to get your family more in tune with nature? Try introducing a hobby to your children that would make them want to go outside more!

Birdwatching is something families with kids of all ages can do. All you need is a pair of binoculars and a field guide! According to the Apalachee Audubon Society, there are a couple prime spots in the Tallahassee area to go birdwatching.

St. Marks Wildlife Refuge

About 20 miles south of Tallahassee, this refuge consists of 70,000 acres of marshes, swamps and flatwoods. Waterfowls and shore birds are common on the refuge. The pied-billed grebe can be seen a lot in the fall and winter, while the double-crested cormorant, the great egret, the snowy egret, the little blue heron, the tricolored heron and the red-winged blackbird are abundant all year long.

San Luis Mission

This national landmark, located in the heart of Tallahassee, was originally established as a capital for Spain’s western settlements in Florida. It was a community where Apalachee Indians and Spaniards lived together. Whether you are visiting the mission to learn about the history or to simply enjoy the outdoor setting and nature walk, you will definitely see birds of all kinds!