Crystal River - Florida
Trip Start
Apr 15, 2008
1
8
58
Trip End
Apr 19, 2009
Crystal River,
Florida,
United States
Friday, June 27, 2008
Our primary reason for visiting this area was to see the endangered Manatees close up. These gentle aquatic mammals are related to the elephant, but look more like a big seal. They have no natural enemies apart from man. Many manatees carry deep scars from where boats have collided with them. There are only 3000 manatees left in the world now. The Manatees favourite habitat is the Crystal River. This is a very special area and comprises of a network of more than 30 freshwater springs that begin at the northwest end of Kings Bay and travel west for about 6 miles entering into the Gulf of Mexico. It is the warm springs which pump out millions of gallons of water at a constant 72 deg F which are vital to the Manatees survival in the cooler winter months.
Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park gave us a rare opportunity to observe animals, birds and plants in their natural setting. Volunteer rangers give really interesting talks daily on the Manatees & Alligators. We had a great time strolling along unspoiled nature trails and saw deer, bear, bobcats, otters and cougars at close but safe range. The park serves as a rehabilitation centre and refuge for the manatees that have been orphaned or injured in the wild and also for manatees that have been born in captivity.
