The ribbon has been cut, and nature enthusiasts from across Manatee County are taking their first steps into Perico Preserve.
- 176-acre preserve cost $2 million in county funds
- Park offers water preserves, bird watching trails
- Preserve features 70 different species of birds
Five years in the making, the 176-acre Perico Preserve cost more than $2 million in county funds to construct. The park not only offers water preserves, but trails for bird watchers to flock to.
However, not everyone is welcome.
"We're going to try and dampen our access to dogs and cyclists," said Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources director Charlies Hunsicker. "So that the true bird watcher will have an opportunity with bird blinds and other shelters to see the wildlife here in Manatee County."
Nature enthusiasts lined up for Perico Preserve's opening on Saturday.
"Well, I’m just here to take some photos of the wildlife," said nature enthusiast Danny Burtless.
12-year-old Burtless, who says he has been taking pictures for more than half of his life, said he wanted to get the "perfect" shot from Saturday's opening.
"It was the releasing of the birds," said Burtless. "I was like, 'I hope my camera lets me take the photo.'"
With up to 70 different species in the preserve, Burtless will have plenty to photograph, with more to come soon. Tortoises and other animals are expected to be joining the preserve's trails soon.
However, for now, there's something at Perico for water lovers, as well.
"You can actually kayak in from the bay into here, so yeah, its great," said park attendee George Duditch.
Officials say it’s worth the $2 million price tag.
"Well, its one of those advertisements, right?" Hunsicker said. "'Priceless.'"