Manatee Spring
Belted Kingfisher on the Suwanee River
Double Crested Cormorants on the Suwanee River
This lovely Florida State Park has a 72 degree F fresh water spring, is on the banks of the Suwanee River, has a wonderful campground, and walking trails with a children’s playground area. I saw many deer, nine, I think. I also saw four armadillos. There were a few wading birds, and songbirds, but there were perhaps a hundred Turkey Vultures (with a few Black Vultures in the bunch).
Almost every large tree on the Suwanee River at the mouth of the Manatee Springs stream, had many vultures perched on it! It is an amazing sight to see a seventy foot tall Cypress tree festooned with buzzards (another name for vultures).
This park is not a zoo and all the animals are wild. I was surprised to see the animals so boldly walking around were people were.
I recommend visiting Manatee Springs State Park. A lovely place with a lot to see in a small park. It is about six miles from the small town of Chiefland where there are several stores and restaurants. Please click on the thumbnail image to see the slightly larger picture. Enjoy!
Turkey Vulture
Black Vulture
Probably an Eastern Phoebe
Pied-billed Grebe on the Suwanee River
White-tailed Deer
Juvenile Little Blue Heron at the Manatee Spring
Wildlifewatcher's Blog 
Comments on: "Manatee Springs State Park, Part 2" (6)
What a great place! I like your pictures!
Hi Montucky, I had a great time camping there. I think I will return in the Summer so I can swim in the springs pool area (they try very hard to keep gators away from the area so it is really safe to swim there). Have a great day!
nice to see deer! i like how cormorants gather. and always like to see vultures.
Hi Tex, Nine deer, three+cormorants, four armadillos and maybe a hundred assorted vultures! Quite the wildlife viewing spot! Have a great week!
Hello, I have seen large numbers of vultures too. Maybe some are migrating. I love the waders and the deer. I have not seen a deer since being in Florida. Enjoy your day and the week ahead!
Hi Eileen, I think the White-tailed Deer are more prevalent along the “Lost Coast” area at Cedar Key and up in the NW and N in FL. Have a wonderful day today!