Location/Time: Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, 9 – 10 a.m.
Beach mice inhabit coastal dunes in the panhandle and along the Atlantic coast of Florida. Development of coastal dune areas has caused a loss of habitat for beach mice and other plant and animal life that live in the dunes. Predation by exotic, invasive species such as coyotes and feral cats have also negatively impacted the population. Due to this loss of habitat and predation, five of the six subspecies of beach mice found in Florida are state and federally listed as either endangered or threatened. This guided hike will take the participants through areas generally closed to the public; through rolling dunes, where sea oats, beach rosemary, woody goldenrod and prickly pear cactus are the dominant plant species.
Due to only 15 participants being permitted, advanced telephone reservations are required. Call 850-267-8330; you will receive a call back to confirm your reservation. Children under 8 years of age are not permitted. In the event of severely inclement weather the program will be moved indoors where a presentation on the topic will take place.
Additional Information: Proper outdoor apparel and footwear is recommended. Make sure that you have sunscreen, insect repellent and adequate drinking water. The hike will last from 45 minutes to one hour. In order to participate in this program, one:
• Must have the ability to withstand exposure to the outdoors for a period of 1 hour.
• Must have the ability to navigate wet, sloped and uneven terrain for one mile, independently or with the assistance of a companion, or with the use of adaptive equipment.
Cost is a $6.00 entry admission per vehicle into the park. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is located at 7525 W. Scenic Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida 32459. For more information, call (850) 267-8330 ::MAP::