Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park offers a close-up view of Florida wildlife. Visitors can see birds, otter, alligators, deer, a Florida panther, foxes, wolves and other Florida animals. From an underwater observatory a variety of fish can be seen swimming in the clear spring-fed waters of the Homosassa River. During the winter months, visitors might catch a glimpse of West Indian manatees who often seek the spring's warmer waters.
Throughout the day there are programs featuring manatees, alligators, and other animals, including Lu the hippopotamus. No, the fifty-six-year-old hippo is not really a member of Florida’s wildlife. The African hippopotamus was granted special citizenship in 1990 when the park became a haven for native animals.
Located at the corner of U. S. 19 and County Rd. 490 in Homosassa Springs, the park has two entrances. The main entrance is on U. S. 19. Visitors can choose to take a leisurely pontoon boat ride along Pepper Creek (about twenty minutes), catch a ride on the tram, or walk the ¾ mile Pepper Trail to the park. At the west entrance on C. R. 490, visitors will find a convenient parking area and a quick walk across the street to the building where tickets can be purchased.
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