Florida Places

The Mystical Sea Horse

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This Sea Horse Mirror Photo is for sale. Click here!

Sea horses are fascinating and unique marine creatures that can be found in many different parts of the world, including the Gulf of Mexico. These small, slow-moving creatures are often considered to be some of the most interesting and beautiful animals in the ocean, with their intricate and delicate features and their ability to change colors to blend in with their surroundings.

In the Gulf of Mexico, there are two main species of sea horses that can be found: the lined seahorse and the dwarf seahorse. Both of these species are relatively small, with the lined seahorse growing up to 7 inches in length and the dwarf seahorse only growing up to 2 inches in length. They are both found in shallow waters, typically around seagrass beds and other areas with abundant vegetation.

One of the most distinctive features of sea horses is their unique body shape. They have a long, thin snout that is used for feeding on small crustaceans and other tiny organisms. Their bodies are covered in bony plates rather than scales, and they have a prehensile tail that they use to anchor themselves to seagrass and other objects in the water. Unlike most fish, sea horses swim upright rather than horizontally, and they are able to move their eyes independently of each other, which allows them to scan their surroundings for potential threats and prey.

Sea horses are also known for their remarkable ability to change colors and blend in with their surroundings. This helps them to avoid predators and catch prey, as well as to communicate with other sea horses. They can change colors rapidly, going from bright and vibrant to dark and mottled in just a few seconds. They can also change their patterns and markings to match the seagrass and other vegetation in their environment.

Despite their unique and fascinating features, sea horses are facing a number of threats in the Gulf of Mexico and around the world. One of the biggest threats to sea horses is habitat loss, as seagrass beds and other coastal ecosystems are destroyed by development, pollution, and climate change. This can also lead to declines in the populations of the small organisms that sea horses feed on, which can further impact their survival.

Sea horses are also heavily targeted by the pet trade and the traditional medicine market. They are often captured and sold for their supposed medicinal properties, even though there is little evidence to support these claims. They are also popular aquarium pets, which can lead to overfishing and declines in wild populations.

To help protect sea horses and other marine species in the Gulf of Mexico, there are a number of conservation efforts underway. These include efforts to protect and restore seagrass beds, reduce pollution and other environmental threats, and regulate the trade in sea horses and other marine species. There are also a number of educational programs and outreach efforts aimed at raising awareness about the importance of marine conservation and the threats facing sea horses and other ocean creatures.

Sea horses are fascinating and unique creatures that are an important part of the marine ecosystem in the Gulf of Mexico and around the world. Their delicate features, remarkable abilities, and important role in the ecosystem make them a species worth protecting. By taking steps to address the threats facing sea horses and other marine species, we can help ensure that these amazing creatures continue to thrive for generations to come.

Junonia, Junonia Shell, Florida Shells

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The Junonia Shell is a beautiful, rare seashell that is highly prized by collectors and beachcombers alike. This unique shell is characterized by its distinctive pattern of intricate spots and lines that create a stunning visual display of rich, warm colors.

The scientific name for the Junonia Shell is Scaphella junonia, and it is a member of the Olividae family of seashells. These shells are typically found in warm, tropical waters and are known for their hard, durable exteriors and intricate internal structure.

(The mirror junonia photos are for sale at WIFLAdventurers Etsy Shop. Click Here)

The Junonia Shell is particularly prized by collectors due to its rarity and unique beauty. While it is found in a few different locations throughout the world, it is most commonly found along the coast of Florida, making it a popular target for beachcombers and collectors in the area.

There are several different types of Junonia Shells, each with their own unique coloration and pattern. The most common variety is the Junonia Excavata, which is characterized by its rich, warm colors of red, brown, and orange. This variety is found primarily along the Gulf Coast of Florida, particularly in the areas around Sanibel and Captiva Islands.

(Junonias in the sand photos are for sale at (WIFLAdventurers Etsy Shop. Click Here)

Another variety of Junonia Shell is the Junonia Hesperia, which is characterized by its bright, vibrant colors of blue and green. This variety is found primarily along the coast of southern California and Baja California, although it has also been found in other parts of the world as well.

The Junonia Shell is typically found in sandy, shallow waters, particularly in areas where there is a lot of wave action. These shells are often found washed up on the beach after storms, or can be found by beachcombers who are willing to do a bit of searching.

While the Junonia Shell is a beautiful and prized find for many beachcombers and collectors, it is important to remember that collecting seashells can have an impact on the local ecosystem. It is important to only take shells that are already dead and to avoid disturbing live animals or their habitats.

In addition to the Junonia Shell, there are many other types of seashells that can be found along the coast of Florida. Some of the most common include the Lightning Whelk, the Fighting Conch, and the Alphabet Cone. These shells, like the Junonia, are prized for their unique beauty and are a popular target for collectors and beachcombers.

Overall, the Junonia Shell is a beautiful and unique seashell that is highly prized by collectors and beachcombers around the world. Found primarily along the coast of Florida, this rare and stunning shell is a must-see for anyone who loves the beauty and wonder of the ocean.

Crumps Landing Tiki Bar

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Crump’s Landing is a popular seafood restaurant located in Homassassa, Florida. Situated right on the water’s edge, the restaurant provides a picturesque view of the Homosassa River and a cozy, inviting atmosphere for diners to enjoy their meals.

The restaurant is named after the Crump family, who have been running the establishment for over 30 years. The family has deep roots in the Homassassa community and takes pride in offering fresh, locally sourced seafood to their customers.

To enter the restaurant, you walk through an archway where you’ll be greeted by a warm and friendly staff, who will escort you to your table. The restaurant is a vast area with three bars and only outside seating, with wooden furnishings and nautical accents, creating a maritime theme that is in harmony with the surrounding environment.

One of the most significant draws of Crump’s Landing is its menu, which features a variety of seafood dishes, from classic favorites to more innovative preparations. The restaurant’s signature dish is the “Stone Crab Claws,” a delicacy that is unique to the Gulf of Mexico. These succulent claws are harvested from the nearby waters and served with a tangy mustard sauce, creating a flavor that is hard to beat.

Other popular menu items include the fried shrimp basket, seafood gumbo, and the fresh catch of the day, which varies depending on what the fishermen have brought in that day. In addition to seafood, the restaurant also serves up a variety of salads, sandwiches, and burgers, making it a great option for those who may not be seafood enthusiasts.

Crump’s Landing is also known for its lively atmosphere, with live music performances on weekends and special events throughout the year. The restaurant hosts an annual Stone Crab Festival, which attracts visitors from all over Florida to celebrate this local delicacy. The festival features live music, games, and of course, plenty of stone crab claws to go around.

Another standout feature of Crump’s Landing is its location on the Homosassa River, which allows for stunning views of the water and the surrounding nature. The restaurant has an outdoor deck, where diners can enjoy their meals while taking in the sights and sounds of the river. There is also a dock, where guests can arrive by boat and tie up for a meal or drinks.

Crump’s Landing is a must-visit seafood restaurant for anyone visiting Homassassa, Florida. Its charming atmosphere, extensive menu, and stunning location make it a top choice for locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two, a family outing, or a fun night out with friends, Crump’s Landing is sure to please.

Marker 48 Craft Brewery

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Marker 48 Brewery is a craft brewery located in the heart of Brooksville, Florida. Founded in 2014 by four friends, Marker 48 has quickly become a local favorite among beer enthusiasts, offering a wide range of handcrafted beers that are brewed onsite.

The brewery’s name is derived from the nearby meridian marker, which was placed in the early 1900s to help surveyors measure distances accurately. This nod to the area’s history is also reflected in Marker 48’s commitment to using locally sourced ingredients in their brewing process whenever possible.

One of the most unique features of Marker 48 Brewery is its spacious and welcoming taproom, which boasts a rustic yet modern decor that is both comfortable and inviting. The taproom is adorned with repurposed wood and metal, giving it a warm and cozy ambiance, while the large windows provide ample natural light that floods the space during the day.

The brewery’s menu features an extensive selection of beers, ranging from classic styles like pilsners and IPAs to more adventurous brews like stouts and sour ales.

In addition to their core beer offerings, Marker 48 also produces a variety of seasonal and limited-edition brews that are only available for a short time. These experimental beers are often created in collaboration with local businesses and organizations, showcasing the brewery’s commitment to community involvement.

Marker 48 Brewery also offers tours of their facility, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process and the opportunity to learn more about the art and science of craft beer. The brewery is open seven days a week, and regularly hosts events such as live music performances, trivia nights, and food truck rallies.

Overall, Marker 48 Brewery is a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates quality craft beer and a laid-back, friendly atmosphere. With its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, community involvement, and dedication to producing innovative and delicious beers, it is no wonder that Marker 48 has become one of the most popular breweries in the region.

You can view all my small batch Marker 48 beer reviews from the 2022/2023 Small Batch Brew Passport season at Wisconsin Florida Adventurers Marker 48 Beer Reviews.

Circle B Bar Reserve January 7th, 2023

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Circle B Bar Reserve is a nature reserve located in Polk County, Florida, and is known for its diverse flora and fauna. Spread over 1,267 acres, the reserve is home to numerous species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. The reserve is a popular destination for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts who come to observe the wide variety of species that inhabit the reserve.

One of the main features of Circle B Bar Reserve is its extensive network of hiking trails that crisscross the reserve. The trails provide visitors with an opportunity to explore the diverse habitats that exist within the reserve, including wetlands, marshes, and hardwood hammocks. The trails range from easy to moderate difficulty, and visitors can choose the one that suits their fitness level and interests.

The most popular trail in the reserve is the Alligator Alley Trail, which is a 1.5-mile loop that takes visitors through the heart of the reserve. The trail passes through a wetland habitat that is home to numerous bird species, including the Anhinga, Great Blue Heron, and Wood Stork. Visitors can also spot alligators basking in the sun along the banks of the trail, making it a unique and exciting experience.

Another popular trail is the Eagle Roost Trail, which is a 1.3-mile loop that takes visitors through a hardwood hammock. This trail provides visitors with an opportunity to observe numerous bird species that inhabit the hammock, including the Red-shouldered Hawk, Barred Owl, and Pileated Woodpecker. Visitors can also spot turtles and snakes that live in the dense vegetation along the trail.

Apart from hiking trails, Circle B Bar Reserve also offers visitors other outdoor recreational activities. The reserve has a fishing pier that provides visitors with an opportunity to fish in the waters of Lake Hancock. The lake is home to numerous fish species, including bass, catfish, and bluegill, making it a popular destination for anglers.

Circle B Bar Reserve also has a picnic area that is located near the entrance of the reserve. The picnic area provides visitors with a place to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings of the reserve. The area has numerous picnic tables, grills, and restrooms, making it an ideal place for families to spend a day outdoors.

The reserve also has an environmental education center that provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the natural history and ecology of the reserve. The center has exhibits and displays that provide information about the various habitats and species that inhabit the reserve. The center also offers educational programs and guided tours for visitors of all ages, making it an ideal destination for school groups and families.

Circle B Bar Reserve is a unique and diverse nature reserve that offers visitors an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Florida. With its extensive network of hiking trails, fishing pier, picnic area, and environmental education center, the reserve provides visitors with a variety of outdoor recreational activities to choose from. The reserve is an ideal destination for birdwatchers, wildlife enthusiasts, and families who are looking for an outdoor adventure. The reserve is open year-round and is free to enter, making it accessible to everyone. If you’re planning a trip to Florida, be sure to add Circle B Bar Reserve to your itinerary.

Myakka River State Park

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The Florida state park system is vast. You can enjoy beautiful scenery and a plethora of wild animals as well as beautiful lakes and Gulf beaches throughout the Florida parks.

The Myakka River State Park does not disappoint. Myakka River, Florida’s first state-designated wild and scenic river, flows through a vast expanse of wetlands, prairies, hammocks, and pinelands that make up Myakka River State Park. Boating, fishing, canoeing and kayaking are popular activities on the water while hikers and bicyclists explore miles of trails and backroads.

Among the already mentioned features, the Myakka River State Park includes a Canopy Walk. You can walk across a bridge suspended in the trees. At the end of the canopy walk is a lookout tower. From the top you can view the horizon above the tree line for miles in any direction. Below is a 360 video where you can experience a fully immersive experience of walking across the Canopy Walk. Hit play and use your mouse or turn your phone to be a part of the canopy walk experience.

The opportunity to see wildlife while at the park is always present. Alligators are plentiful. Although you may have to look harder during the wet season. One of the best places to observe gators is at the Deep Hole. The park limits the number of people who can visit the Deep Hole every day. If this is your objective, you will have to get to the park early. The park opens at 8am. The ranger stated the permits to the Deep Hole are usually gone by 8:10. It is a 2.2 mile hike into the area.

We rented kayaks. We were able to see plenty of alligators from our kayaks. Kayak and canoe rental is $20 for the first hour and $5 per hour after that. The people at the rental place were awesome and very liberal with our time in the kayaks.

Myakka River State Park is also popular with bird watchers. Myakka’s 37,000-plus acres provide wonderful habitat for wading birds, raptors, songbirds, migratory birds, and ducks. Whether you are a professional or amateur, you won’t be disappointed. 

Tri Colored Heron
Roseate Spoonbill
Roseate Spoonbill
Little Blue Heron
Limpkin
Great Egret
Great Blue Heron
Glossy Ibis

There is plenty of camping at the park.

The park features three campgrounds with 90 campsites. Each site is equipped with 50-amp electrical service, water, a fire ring and picnic table. The sites in Palmetto Ridge also have sewer hook-ups. A dump station is located near Old Prairie Campground. Laundry facilities are available to all campers in Old Prairie and Palmetto Ridge campgrounds. All campsites are located within 40 yards of restroom facilities with hot showers.

There are six primitive campgrounds (Mossy Hammock, Bee Island, Honore, Panther Point, Oak Grove and Prairie) located along the hiking trails for backpackers. These rustic settings provide campers with a fire pit and post to hang items. Each campground has three campsites, and a maximum of four people may be on each site. Only Bee Island, Oak Grove and Prairie have water pumps. Water at these sites is not potable; it requires boiling/chemical treatment. Other sites do not have water; you must bring your own. The terrain is primarily prairie, and dehydration is possible even on the coolest days. 

#WiFlAdventurers

Paw Park Beach, Venice, Florida

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If you want a great day on the beach with your best friend? I highly recommend Paw Park Beach just a few hundred yards South of Sharky’s On the Pier.

You will park at Brohard Paw Park where they have a nice fenced in facility for dogs. One fenced area is for small dogs and the other for large dogs. To get to the dog beach, just walk through the fenced in dog park, down a short path and over the boardwalk.

There is limited parking in front of the Brohard Paw Park, but there is plenty of parking right next to the park. They have a nice little doggie showering area and water available in the fenced in dog park area. When on the beach, you will want to bring your own water.

Mango Enjoying The Surf

Mango, our Great Dane enjoyed playing in the water and playing with other dogs. This beach is a beach where dogs are suppose to be on a leash. Many of the dogs were on a leash, and the dogs off leash were very well behaved with very responsible and nice owners. People were friendly as we all shared time with our dogs.

If you like sharks teeth, you can do a little hunting for them while your pup plays. My wife, Carrie, enjoyed a day finding shark’s teeth and shells.

Our day at Paw Park Beach was wonderful. We had surf, sun and sand. We met nice people and nice dogs. We even got to do some shelling and shark teeth hunting.

If you find yourself at Paw Park Beach and see Mango the Great Dane, stop and say hi. #mangothegreatdane

The Dance Of The Sandhill Crane

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We live in Hernando County, Florida. Interesting wildlife is always a short drive away. Today we didn’t have to take a short drive. All we had to do was look out our back window where we were lucky enough to have a pair of sandhill cranes walk past our house.

As we watched them, all of a sudden one started to dance. As soon as the dance began, I ran and got my camera. I was lucky enough to get outside to catch some of the dance on film, well digital film, so to speak.

Sandhill cranes mate for life. Their bond lasts until one of the mates passes away at which time the surviving mate seeks a new mate. During the mating season, sandhill cranes perform dancing displays, which is most likely what I was privy to seeing on this occasion. Dancing is common in the breeding season, but sandhill cranes can dance all year long. Their dancing involves bowing, jumping and wing flapping, all of which I caught during this photo session.

Browse through my photo gallery and experience the “Dance of the Sandhill Crane.”

Enter Mango The Florida Great Dane And New Florida Adventurer

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When we purchased our Florida home, we were excited to bring our beautiful Great Dane Roxy with us to the sunshine state. Sadly, Roxy passed away a year ago in January of Osteosarcoma. It was a tough loss and we think about her every day.

Memorial to Roxy

We now have been in Florida since late July. We have taken many adventures, but miss having a dog. Carrie started surfing various dane sites. We have considered many options. Last week she came across a few danes up for adoption that live near us. Long story short, we found an eleven week old blue brindle dane that lives a little more than hour from us. We contacted the breeder and then had to wait.

The breeder replied. We filled out the breeder’s application. We were accepted!

Mango found a stick.

We took a ride on Sunday to meet this new dane who has been christened Mango. When we arrived this puppy was let out the door. Her big paws were flopping as she tried to run over the leaves and grass. Her marking is called brindle. She is a blue brindle to be exact. Her eyes are a green and her fur is like a loose coat ready to be grown into.

Mango comes to our home on February 3rd, 2021. We missed our walks with Roxy. Now we can take our walks with Mango. When food drops on the floor, we no longer have to get a broom. Mango will be our vacuum. We will be back to warm snuggles on the couch as we watch tv in the evenings and comforting dog snores as we sleep at night.

Most of all, we look forward to new adventures in Florida with Mango.

Shelling on Anclote Key Preserve State Park

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Just off the shores of Tarpon Springs is a barrier island known as Anclote Key. It is an amazing place to find some great shells. The island is also only accessible by boat.

Anclote Key Preserve State Park is Florida State Park and historical site located 3 miles off Tarpon Springs. The park does allow for camping on the north end of the island as well as picnic pavilions and grills. Wildlife includes various birds and sea life. The island is host to a picturesque lighthouse.

As far as shelling goes, Anclote Key is a nice site to find shells and sponges. Sponges are sparse in most places we go shelling, but the Tarpon Springs sponge docks are world famous with the title of the Sponge Capital of the World. As the tides roll in and out, Anclote Key becomes a resting place for many of the sponges the sea chooses to relinquish.

Shelling on the island was good. We went with a charter called Odyssey Cruises. They were one of the most affordable shelling cruises we have been on. They do pack the boat full and if you are reading this while the pandemic is still going on, not everyone will be wearing masks. The trip is a 2 and 1/2 hour trip which is barely enough time. Check the low tide charts and try to book during a low tide cruise for optimal shelling. The run back to back cruises. They are a business and quantity is what they are going for.

Two of our shells from the tour.

When my wife goes on these trips, I do look for shells, but am more interested in photography. The photography opportunities are plentiful. On this trip I found a beautiful sea star, a juvenile Herring Gull and an American Oystercatcher.

We are looking forward to heading back to Anclote Key. Any friends with a boat up for an all day excursion?

Northern Flicker

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One of the neat things about being in Florida is the wide variety of birds and animals that are out our backdoor. I mean that in a literal sense. The other day I looked out our back window and saw this bird I have never saw before. I quickly got my camera and got a few rudimentary shots before the bird flew away. With a little research I discovered this is a Northern Flicker

Northern Flicker

This photo appears to be a male Yellow Shafted Northern Flicker. The northern flicker is a woodpecker.  Often seen feeding on the ground in lawns, where they eat lots of ants and worms. The flicker is the only woodpecker in North American that commonly finds food on the ground. Apparently this guy was having a feast in my neighbor’s backyard the day he came to visit.

Unlike other woodpeckers, flickers typically migrate south when inclement weather arrives. In the spring the northern flicker establishes its own nesting territory. The do this by drumming on trees and any other object which makes noise as a way of warning others to stay away.

Northern Flicker

Circle B Bar Reserve 12.28.2020

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The Circle B Bar Reserve is an amazing place where one can experience a wide variety of wildlife. The grounds host miles of walking trails through woodlands and marsh areas. Here are some photos and a short video of a male Anhinga eating a fish.

Anhingas always stab their fish to catch them. They are very skilled at removing the fish from their bill. They will lower the fish and then whip their head upward to fling and dislodge the fish from their bill. The fish flies directly upward, and then when the fish descends, the anhinga catches it in its mouth. If the toss is not perfect, the anhinga will bat the fish up into the air until the fish is in the right position.

Male Anhinga Swallowing a Fish.

Below is a photo gallery of the birds, reptiles and animals we viewed on our visit to the Circle B today.

  • Alligator
  • Moorhen
  • Great Blue Heron
  • Squirrel
  • Alligator
  • Anhinga
  • Great Blue Heron
  • Raccoon
  • Great Blue Heron
  • Alligator
  • Great Blue Heron
  • Circle B Bar Reserve
  • Great Blue Heron
  • Softshell Turtle
  • Great Blue Heron
  • Squirrel
  • Anhinga Eating a Fish
  • Cormorant

Make sure to follow me to see future photos and videos of my Florida activities.

Alligators At Lake Apopka 12.12.2020

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Lake Apopka is a wildlife wonder. The drive through experience will offer you a chance to view birds and alligators. The drive will take you a minimum of an hour and a half to complete. The experience can easily take a half of a day to complete. Bring food and water. Please bring out all wrappers and bottles you bring in.

Various other walking trails available to visitors offer the experience of seeing other wild animals. Here are photos of the alligators we saw on our visit this day.

Fort DeSoto 12.24.2020

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Fort DeSoto is a great place to see a wide variety of birds. Here is the photo gallery from our visit to Fort DeSoto on Christmas Eve.

  • Reddish Egret in Flight
  • Limpkin Looking For Food
  • Black Skimmers
  • Reddish Egret
  • Reddish Egret
  • White Pelican

Funny story from when we were heading home. We stopped at Publix and bought a roast chicken. We grabbed some napkins and plastic forks and knives. We sat in the car in the Publix parking lot and had a nice little picnic. We had a quarter cup of water left from the day. We washed down our roast chicken sharing the cup of water. It was a great day.

Shelling With Reel Kind Fishing, Shelling and Eco Tours

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Horse Conch-This Photo Is For Sale @ Etsy WIFLAdventurers

My wife loves shelling. That statement does not even come close to actually describing how Carrie feels about shelling. I blame myself. In 2008 we took our first trip to Florida. We visited Cocoa Beach and Clearwater Beach. The surf, sea, white sand, sunsets and seeing her first dolphin stirred a desire in Carrie that would not be tamed.

We did not get back to Florida until 2012. On that trip we visited Sanibel Island. And it began….

Carrie’s obsession with shelling led her to start following various Facebook groups and Instagram accounts. She came across posts from people who have toured with Reel Kind Fishing and Tours. In 2018 we booked our first trip. The trip took us to Kice Island in the 10,000 Islands. The 10,000 Islands are a chain of islands and mangrove islets off the coast of southwest Florida.

This trip took us to another island. Today we visited Shell Island (Second Chance Reef). Shell Island is literally an island made of shells. As you stand in the middle of the island, you find yourself surrounded by piles of sun bleached shells and beautiful blue water. Shell Island is a designated/protected nesting site. Shell Island is closed from March 1st to Labor Day weekend.

Today, Captain Ryan, pictured here, was our tour guide. I always told my basketball players it is the little details that make the big differences. Captain Ryan definitely understands how the little details can make a big difference.

Captain Ryan pointing out some premier shelling areas on Shell Island

Once we got to the island and the boat was secure, Captain Ryan instructed us on where the best shelling would be. Off we went. My wife with her shell bag, I with a shell bag and my camera. We both knew she was serious about the shells and I was serious about getting some interesting photos.

One would would think it would be difficult finding a lot of interesting things to photograph on an island made of shells in the middle of the the Gulf of Mexico. Once you take a closer look you find the place full of beauty and interesting photo opportunities.

Earlier I mentioned the little details make the big difference. After our morning on Shell Island we headed back to port. On our way back Captain Ryan noticed a group of jet skis slowly maneuvering near the shore. He took the time to swing over by the jet skis because his experience told him the people on the jet skis were viewing dolphins. As we pulled close we saw at least four dolphins swimming near the shore and feeding. Captain Ryan worked hard to get me in position for a photo of the dolphins. Trying to get a photo of a dolphin breaching is like playing “whack-a-mole.” By the time I got the camera in position and focused, they were gone. Captain Ryan was more than patient as we tried to get a good photo, which I never was really able to do.

Dolphins Frolicking

After what I thought was a full morning of shelling and dolphin sightseeing, Captain Ryan had one more surprise for us. He slowly cruised along the shore just up from the dolphin sighting where he noticed some shore birds. We watched the beautiful Roseate Spoonbills feeding in the water. Captain Ryan graciously maneuvered the boat, again working to get some photos of those beautiful birds.

Captain Ryan found this beautiful Lightning Whelk deep in the sand. He gave it to me. As we walked over by my wife, Carrie, he said, “Look what your husband found.”

Of course I did not take credit for the find, but this is another example of just how dedicated Captain Ryan is to making your shelling experience the best it possibly can be.

This selflessness is not just the trait of Captain Ryan. When we went with Captain Jesse on our first tour, he also shared some of his fantastic finds with us and the other people who joined us on the tour.

Twice we have gone with Reel Kind to shell in the 10,000 Islands and twice we have had a fantastic time with some great finds. We still haven’t found the elusive Junonia shell, but it isn’t without trying. Maybe the third time will be the charm.

Various wildlife and nature photos from our Florida adventures can be purchased at Wisconsinfloridaadventurers.com.

A great day was had by all!

Herons at Lake Apopka 12.13.2020

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Here are some photos of the different Herons seen at Lake Apopka today.

  • Great Blue Heron
  • Great Blue Heron
  • Great Blue Heron
  • Great Blue Heron
  • Great Blue Heron
  • Great Blue Heron
  • Grey Heron
  • Little Blue Heron
  • Tricolored Heron

Lake Apopka is is the fourth largest lake in Florida. If you are looking for nature, head to Lake Apopka. Lake Apopka features many different birds, reptiles and mammals. You can enjoy a nature lover’s paradise by taking the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive. You may want to take water with you and a snack. The drive takes about 90 minutes, but you are going want to stop and enjoy the all the wildlife Lake Apopka offers.

Remember never to feed any of the wildlife.

Click Here To View Photos That Are For Sale.

Hitchhiking Softshell Turtle On Manatee

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One never knows when an excellent photo opportunity will arise. On the day I took these photos of the softshell turtle riding on a manatee I decided to take a ride to Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River. I was going to try out my new CPL filter which helps filter out glare when shooting subjects on or just under the surface of the water. I was walking on the path and came across two people who later introduced themselves as Don Markham and Wendy Pate.

While we were talking Don noticed a softshell turtle hitching a ride on a manatee. He moved over and gave me the shot. Not too often do you get the opportunity to get an exciting shot like this where two different species are peacefully interacting with each other.

If ever you encounter a manatee while in the water you should know riding or even actively interacting with manatees is illegal. A manatee can come up to you and often will. The young manatees, or calfs, are extremely curious, but your interaction with them must remain passive.

I am sure this turtle gets a pass since the law is to keep humans from harassing manatees because they are so docile and gentle.

Softshell turtles are one of the largest freshwater turtle species in North America. The shell of the softshell turtle is soft, flat, and rubbery. The edges of the shell are pliable with small spines. As you can maybe see from the one photo, the turtle’s nose is long and piglike. The softshell turtle spends most of its life in the water.

#wisconsinfloridaadventurers #manatees #softshellturtles

Manatees Coming Into Crystal River, FL

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When the cold weather reaches Florida, the water temperatures of the Gulf of Mexico cools down. Manatees need to be in water that is no colder than 68 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent hypothermia. Florida has now had a few cold fronts come through. These cold fronts are bringing the manatees into Three Sisters Springs where the manatees will winter. Hundreds come in to enjoy the water of the springs which is a constant 73.3 degrees Fahrenheit. These photos were taken on December 5th, 2020.

Wildlife photos can be viewed and purchased at https://wisconsinfloridaadventurers.picfair.com/

Manatees in Three Sisters Springs

Kayaking Kings Bay and Three Sisters Springs with Hunter Springs Kayaks

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Crystal River, FL, is a cute little coastal city that sits about 75 miles north of Tampa Bay. Crystal River rests along spring-fed Kings Bay. Crystal River is the home of the National Wildlife Refuge. Here manatees are sheltered year round.

In Crystal River you will find Three Sisters Springs Wildlife Refuge. Three Sisters Springs features close up views of manatees via their boardwalk. In the cold winter, hundreds of manatees seek the warm water refuge of the springs. The manatees, the crystal clear water of the springs and the surrounding flora creates an amazing viewing experience.

One of the best ways to experience the area is while on the water. There are a few different ways to get out on the bay and into the springs. We rented kayaks from Hunter Springs Kayaks.

Hunter Springs Kayaks offers a wide variety of rentals. They have clear kayaks, paddle boards, canoes, regular kayaks and hybrids. You have many options to choose from which will make your on water experience one to remember. Parking is limited at Hunter Springs Kayaks, but you can find free public parking just two blocks away at the corner of 1st Avenue and 5th Street. After you park, just walk two blocks south on 1st Avenue and Hunter Springs Kayaks will be on your right. After you book your kayak, your on water experience starts at Hunter Springs Park. Hunter Springs Park is just another four blocks south of Hunter Springs Kayaks. The whole set up is rather convenient.

Once on the water you can enjoy kayaking in Kings Bay and into the Three Sisters Springs area. We took our kayak trip at the end of June when the Gulf and Kings Bay water temperatures were warmer. In the summer you will find a few manatees in the bay area, but most of them are no longer resting in Three Sister Springs. In the winter hundreds of manatees can be found in Three Sister Springs where the water temperature is a constant 73 degrees. In the winter, kayaking into Three Sister Springs may be restricted as to not disturb these gentle mammals.

Mother and Baby Manatee in Three Sisters Springs. Taken April 2019

Before your kayak trip, you are required to watch a video on the proper way to interact with the manatees. You can google various resources which will inform you on proper manatee interaction etiquette. You can also go to https://myfwc.com/education/wildlife/manatee/viewing-guidelines/ for more information on the rules regarding manatees.

On our kayak experience in June, we were lucky to see two different manatees. We saw one by Hunter Springs Park, just after we started our adventure and we saw another one in Kings Bay. The scenery in and around Kings Bay and Three Sister Springs is breathtaking. The people at Hunter Springs Kayaks were friendly and very informative. They will make your first experience on the water a positive one and any return trips equally as exciting.

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