American Alligator, Hillsborough River, Tampa, Florida
Canoeing waterways is a thrilling way to experience Florida's wildlife in its native environment up close. A short drive from my home, is a small park. It’s a secluded treasure, brimming with a wealth of exotic animals and lush tropical landscapes. You'd be surprised by the incredible number of mysterious creatures that thrive just fifteen minutes away from downtown Tampa.
Trout Creek is a local park with a boat ramp on the Hillsborough River. It’s a protected area we love to explore by canoe in search of birds, alligators, turtles, snakes and more.
American Alligator, Hillsborough River, Tampa, Florida
We launch our canoe and paddle upstream. To the inexperienced visitor, the river appears muddy and lifeless. However, if you scan the open water and study the banks, you’ll see lots of camouflaged inhabitants.
Prehistoric looking alligators are numerous on this stretch of the river. On one trip upstream we stopped counting after spotting 30 gators. This is equally exciting and unnerving. Knowing how easily these agile reptiles blend into the murky water and cluttered riverbank, I’m sure a lot more than 30 alligators were watching us.
Whether the alligators are sunning on land or gliding in the water, their imposing and majestic presence in their natural habitat is artistically inspiring.
Roseate Spoonbill, Hillsborough River, Tampa, Florida
I keep my camera close and ready to catch whatever surprises lay around the river bend. We've enjoyed seeing Roseate spoonbills on the riverbank. It's a treat to photograph these showy pink birds. They're beautiful and graceful in their awkward, oddly designed way.
River Cooter Turtle, Hillsborough River, Tampa, Florida
Turtles perch on logs along the riverbank. It’s cool to see them balance on their bony underside with their head, legs and tail stretched out. I like taking pictures of them from all different angles.
Turkey Vulture, Hillsborough River, Tampa, Florida
Vultures give me the creeps. Along a stretch of the river their presence is more fascinating than fearsome. In this area turkey vultures gather in mass. They soar in grand synchronized circles overhead, while others flap their wings and hop around in a cooperative group along the sandy shoreline.
White Ibis, Hillsborough River, Tampa, Florida
Every ecosystem has its unique predators, its exotic beauties, its theatrical posers and its shadowy dwellers. It's amazing to think the river is home to so many more animals than the ones we spot on our outings. Deer, otter, turkey, wild boar, squirrels, birds, all kinds of insects and snakes live in the surrounding woods. At the same time, a surprising number of fish species and other water born creatures live in the river itself. Plus, there’s a stunningly beautiful variety of tropical plants that support and protect healthy ecology.
Hillsborough River, Tampa, Florida
I'm drawn to this local treasure for the wonderful surprises that wait around every turn of the windy waterway. With every visit I experience a growing connection to the river, the land and wildlife. I’m thankful we have access to this undeveloped slice of heaven, where we enjoy the natural beauty and wonder of nature.
It’s a thrill to share my discovery journey with you through my pictures. I hope you enjoy seeing the wildlife up close, with new and different perspectives that reveal their splendor.
Thanks for stopping by!
Lisa