Future home of the South Region Management and Education Center, the variety of habitats found on the 395-acre Malabar Scrub Sanctuary make it an ideal place for visitors to learn how wetland and upland communities interact. The protected habitats include xeric (dry) hammock, scrub, scrubby flatwoods, pine flatwoods, sand pine scrub, ponds, sloughs, and depression marshes. Trails weave through many of these natural communities, including several areas recently treated with prescribed fires. Fire is a natural factor in many of Florida’s ecosystems, and hikers will be amazed at the lush, green regrowth in areas that were burned only a short time ago. The sanctuary is a refuge for the Florida scrub-jay, gopher tortoise, and Eastern indigo snake. All these species benefit from controlled burns. Restrooms are available at the adjacent Malabar Community Park.
Size: 395 acres
Activities: - Bicycle Trail
- Horseback Riding Trail
- Hiking Trail
- Wildlife Observation
Habitats: Xeric (dry) hammock, scrub, scrubby flatwoods, pine flatwoods, sand pine scrub, ponds, sloughs, and depression marshes
Wildlife:Gopher tortoise, river otter, bobcat. Listed in State of Florida Great Florida Birding Trail for Florida scrub-jay, great horned owl, migratory songbirds, pileated woodpecker, sandhill crane, sparrow, Eastern towee
ADA Access: A paved road into the Sanctuary is located adjacent to main entrance trailhead
Dos & Don'ts: - Pets, smoking, alcohol, motorized vehicles, and hunting are prohibited
- Removal of plants, animals, archeological, or cultural resources is prohibited
- Do not feed, disturb, or harm wildlife
- Stay on the trail for personal safety and protection of the natural environment