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  • Homosassa Springs State Wildlife park

    Posted on March 20th, 2009 admin No comments

    Written by: Steven Humpleby
    Authors Website

    Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is one of Florida’s original natural tourist attractions. The park is open every day of the year from 9.00am until 5.30pm.  (Last tickets sold at 4.00pm)

    It is recommended that visitors allow 3.5 to 4hrs to tour the park.

    Homosassa Springs is a favourite playground for manatees and a showcase for several of the state’s other endangered animal species, including whooping cranes and key deer.

    From the elevated boardwalk there is a great view of the wildlife including cougars, black bears, bobcats, white-tailed deer, American alligators, American crocodiles, and river otters.

    The Fish Bowl, an underwater observatory in the main 46-ft deep spring, gives an unusual perspective on life in the Homosassa river, while a pontoon boat ride or a tram ride along the Pepper Creek is ideal for wildlife-spotting along the riverbank.

    There are a number of educational programs throughout the day giving the opportunity to learn more about Florida’s wildlife:

    Manatee Programs:               

    An educational program on the West Indian manatees and the park’s manatee rehabilitation program are presented three times daily: 11.30am, 1.30pm, 3.30pm

    Wildlife Encounters Program:

    An educational program on Florida’s wildlife including Florida snakes, birds of prey, gopher tortoises, turtles and opossums presented twice daily:10.30 am, 2.30pm

    Alligator & Hippo Program:   

    An educational program on American alligators and the park’s Hippopotamus, presented daily at 12.30pm.

    The Reptile House is where the native snakes and other reptiles are found, and hands-on experience can be gained at the Children’s Education Centre.

    Recreational opportunities include picnicking, nature study, and bird-watching. Special events and workshops are also held throughout the year.

    Driving Directions:

    HomosassaSpringsWildlifeState Park is located in Homosassa Springs, 75 miles north of Tampa on U.S. 19 and 90 miles northwest of Orlando

    Park Admission Fees:

    Adults (age 13 and over)                    $9.00 per person.

    Children (ages 3 through 12)     $5.00 per person.

    Children ages 2 years and under:        No charge

    Refreshments:                                 The park has a café & 2 gift shops.

    Please Note:

    Pets are NOT permitted in the wildlife park with the exception of service animals. Self Service outside kennels are provided free of charge at the VisitorCenter and at the West Entrance.

    Dogs are permitted in parking areas and along Pepper Creek Trail on a six foot hand held leash.

    The park operates a no-smoking policy within Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park.  However, an area is provided outside the West Entrance of the park.

    Contact Details:

    HomosassaSpringsWildlifeState Park

    4150 S. Suncoast Blvd.
    Homosassa, Florida34446
    Phone: 352-628-5343
    Fax: 352-628-4243

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