Wildlife watching

Alligators, herons, ibis and egrets patrol the lake year-round, but other wildlife may change with the seasons. Ospreys nest on tall cypress in the middle of the lake, and warblers and flycatchers nest in the hardwood uplands around the water’s edge. Hundreds of sandhill cranes stop over during fall and late winter migration. Turtles such as Florida softshell, yellow-bellied slider, and Florida cooter are seen frequently in the water and basking on logs. 

Never Feed Wildlife

It’s always best to let wildlife stay wild. Feeding wildlife, including alligators, can cause serious problems for both wildlife and people. Not only is feeding wildlife illegal, it can also lead to dangerous situations, health issues for wildlife, loss of natural behaviors, and impacts to the local ecosystem. When humans feed alligators, the animals start to associate people with food. This can make them less afraid of humans, and they may approach people looking for more food. Alligators are wild animals, and when they lose their fear of people, it can lead to dangerous situations where they might bite or attack. 

Wildlife Watching Etiquette

• If an animal changes its behavior, you are too close.
• Give wildlife plenty of space with a wide escape route. Do not pursue wildlife.
• View wildlife from a distance. Invest in a zoom lens, binoculars, or a spotting scope to view wildlife up close.
• Follow the “Rule of Thumb”. With your arm extended and making a “thumbs up” sign, if you can cover the entire animal with your thumb, you are likely at a comfortable viewing distance for both you and wildlife.
• Wildlife can be disturbed in ways other than proximity such as flash photography, loud noises, and rapid movements
• Be respectful of sensitive areas. Rookeries and nesting areas exist on the refuge. Visitors who are wanting a closer look may cause parents or young to flee or become separated, which leaves their young vulnerable to lurking predators and other dangers.
• Respect other visitors. Be aware that other visitors enjoy watching wildlife, too. Please enhance the experience and enjoyment of the refuge for others by showing mutual respect. 

How To Increase Your Chances of Seeing Wildlife

• Wear earth-colored clothing.
• Be still and move slowly.
• Be as quiet as possible. Refrain from yelling and shouting. We know how exciting it is to see that special critter, but yelling will likely scare it away.
• While pets are allowed in designated areas, you will have a better chance of seeing wildlife if you leave pets at home. Pets could be too much of a temptation for a curious or hungry alligator. If an alligator gets too close and goes after your dog, the consequences could be extremely harmful or even deadly to all involved.

Wildlife Harassment is a Crime

Harassment is defined as the disruption of natural behavioral patterns, which include, but are not limited to, breeding, feeding, or sheltering. Violators are subject to up to one year in jail and up to a $100,000 fine. Please report all suspicious activity or violations of the law by calling a Federal Wildlife Officer at 912-313-6955.