Prescribed Burn. Photo by Jon Hoch

An Avian Overview of the Withlacoochee State Forest, with Speaker Jon Hoch

Socializing: 6:45 p.m.

Meeting starts: 7 p.m.

Program starts: 7:15 p.m.

About the presentation: Spanning over 172,000 acres of rolling sandhills, expansive pine flatwoods, and dense riverine and coastal swamps, the Withlacoochee State Forest serves as a critical avian stronghold in Central Florida. This presentation offers an inside look at the diverse bird communities thriving within the forest's fire-maintained ecosystems, with a special focus on its premier indicator species.

We will explore the unique ecological dynamics of the forest's elite sandhills and flatwoods habitats, examining how regular prescribed burning shapes the lives of resident and migratory birds. Attendees will gain insight into ongoing population monitoring, field research, and hands-on conservation efforts. Discover how biologists, land managers, and researchers work daily to secure the future of these vital avian populations.

Jon Hoch. Photo by Emily Seiler

About the speaker: Jon Hoch has served as the Forest Ecology Supervisor for the Withlacoochee Forestry Center for the last 7 years, putting his background in avian monitoring and especially, Red-cockaded Woodpecker biology, as well as, rare and invasive plant management, to good use while developing skills as a certified prescribed burn manager, pilot of uncrewed aerial systems, and Geographic Information Systems specialist. 

American Kestrel Chicks. Photo by Jon Hoch