Circle B Bar Reserve

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.

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.