Here at Wakulla (pronounced Wa - cull - ah) State Park the main attraction is the spring that feeds the Wakulla River, that then empties into the St. Marks River that in turn empties into the Gulf of Mexico. The park operates narrated boat tours in the river to view the wildlife. The boats have solar panels on their roofs that power their electric engines. The abundance of creatures make both the camera aficionados and the nature lovers very happy.
On this bright sunny and warm day all the creatures were out sunning themselves. The great blue herons stood tall surveying their domain. The Anhingas assumed their classic pose with their wings outstretched. The Ibis waded in the shallows while the great egrets regally stretched out their necks. The alligators lazed about and the turtles perched on their logs or cypress knees even splaying out their toes to catch the sun.
The Wakulla Lodge
Scenery on Wakulla River
As neat as it is to see all of the birds, turtles, alligators, and manatees, the scenery on the Wakulla River is also beautiful.
Birds
Lots of different types of birds: Great and Little Blue Herons, Turkey Vultures, Anhingas, Ibis (white adults and brown youth, both with orange beaks), Common Moorhen (yellow tip beak, orange extension to eyes, blue neck, brown back), American Coots (white beak), Hooded Mergansers (fuzzy brown headed duck), wood duck, and even a speckled snake.
Alligators
Lots of alligators from teenagers to big bull alligators. All out today because of warm sun.
Turtles
Lots of turtles also sunning themselves. From animalquestions.org "Turtles, different from some reptiles are ectotherms (cold blooded) which means that their internal temperature varies according to their ambient environment. In other words, they are hot when their environment is hot and cold when their environment is cold."
Manatees
The last time we were here (2 years ago) there were no manatees. Today we counted 16 on our trip downriver. Some of these amazing creatures were quite close to the boat.
The Lodge was built in the 1930's for a much wealthier clientele than those now entering it's grand lobby. Thankfully it retains it's quiet elegance with affordable prices. OK it is a bit of a splurge but well worth it. The dining room turns out consistently good food and the well trained staff are friendly and helpful. Old Florida is alive and well.