"It's a beautiful place. You can also embark on a paddling adventure down the pristine waterway of the Weeki Wachee River. That's easier said than done in that situation, of course, but that's the best chance you have.". 22. In August 2014, 9-year-old James Barney was attacked by an alligator about 300 feet away from the park's beach. The commission said that there were 24 fatal attacks by an alligator between 1948 to 2017, with the last one occurring in 2016 when a two-year-old boy was killed by an alligator while playing at Disney's Seven Seas Lagoon in Orlando, Florida. How big is Weeki Wachee Florida? In 2013, the latest year data is available, there were seven reports of serious alligator attacks in the state. They are there, but prefer to stay in the marsh areas where guests do not paddle.A Water Moccasin rests on the banks of the Weeki Wachee River.Swimming is not permitted in the main-spring. FWC officers destroyed the alligator. It produces more than 117,000,000 gallons of water per day. Contrary to what we have been made to believe, alligators are not aggressive animals. The local climate variations will determine the exact length of the mating season each year. Alligators rely on the sun to warm their bodies and increase their metabolism. Located about an hour north of Tampa, the Weeki Wachee River is a spring-fed river that meanders its way into the Gulf of Mexico. Where can I find information on the Weeki Wachee Rivers alligator population? Trust The Answer, What White Sneakers Does Jennifer Aniston Wear? That alligator and several other large alligators were captured destroyed. The 12 male alligator responsible for the attack was captured and destroyed. This dive site has an average rating of 4.04 out of 5 from 24 scuba divers. June 3, 2006: A second intruder was spotted by an ex-mermaid swimming in the springs on June 2, about the same length as the last alligator. That said, we can look at some of the most popular ones to see if they have alligators. Weeki Wachee Preserve (5 min) an outstanding 11,000 acre preserve located at 2345 Osowaw Blvd. Among the things you must not do is not put up a fight at all or play dead. "The presence of alligators is likely in the lake!" The alligator had recently moved into the lake and was reportedly to have been fed by visitors to the park. Rentals and shuttles are available through Weeki Fresh Water Adventures in the park. Are there alligators in the Weeki Wachee River? if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_2',124,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_3',124,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3-0_1'); .medrectangle-3-multi-124{border:none !important;display:block !important;float:none !important;line-height:0px;margin-bottom:7px !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;margin-top:7px !important;max-width:100% !important;min-height:50px;padding:0;text-align:center !important;}. Circumstances of the incident are uncertain because there were no witnesses. Location: Weeki Wachee. Weeki Wachee is renown for its natural beauty, but also for its man-made attractions such as the water park, underwater theatre, and mermaid shows. Even so, visitors are greeted with signs warning them to "swim at your own risk" and "alligators and other wildlife may be present." Sharon Holmes, 16, female, was killed. Campbell had separated from others in her party, and was alone when the attack occurred. That said, before getting in any body of water in Florida, its best to take a look around and be aware of your surroundings. The spring water is a constant 72F year round. The river journey. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is open every day. Alligators can swim as fast as 20mph with the help of their tails and webbed feet. Alligator habitats are in the marshland where guests are not likely to go. Its not unusual to see an alligator lounging in the sun, while kayaking down the river. Alligators are not usually seen in the Ichetucknee Springs. Weeki Wachee Springs is famous as an attraction featuring the Weeki Wachee mermaids and is now owned and operated by the State of Florida as part of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. Kayak rentals are available at the state park for $32.50. Welcome to the Maronda Homes Royal Highlands Community. According to the Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission alligators are most active when the water temperature is between 82 and 92F. From here, countless springs pour into the river, making the water current faster. Are There Alligators In The Florida Springs? It is best for the sea kayaker looking to get up close and personal with the wildlife of Florida. 2 Can you tube down the Weeki Wachee River? Lane Graves, 2, male, was killed at the Seven Seas Lagoon in Orange County on June 14, 2016, while playing near the water's edge. Swimming is allowed at the springs as there are generally no alligators. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. If you play dead, you might become dead.". The 11' 5" male alligator was captured four days later and destroyed. alligator attacks in blackwater river. Weeki Wachee Springs is unique in that its largest spring vent has an extensive underwater cave system that has been explored to a depth of, Can A Thyroid Pill Hurt A Cat? Address: 6131 Commercial Way, Weeki Wachee, FL Directions: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. 5. On almost any day, dozens of leash-free dogs play near the water. The paddling track has sand bars where you can stop and rest or even picnic if you feel like it. Alligator attacks have occurred elsewhere in the state park. Alligator swims toward woman, tries to bite paddleboard at Central Florida park, Weeki Wachees Wildlife (Manatees, Gators,and MORE!) NEWSLETTER: Sign up for a free newsletter from The News-Press. The name is derived from the Seminole: uekiwv /oykywa, wi:-/ "spring" and -uce /-oci/ "small", signifying either a small spring or an offshoot of a town named Spring. They will probably hide when they see you, but you also should take precautions. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. The preserve provides a rich mosaic of habitats including several miles of Weeki Wachee River frontage, portions of the Mud River, dense hardwood swamps, freshwater and saltwater marshes, and pine-covered sandhills. When you kayak through alligator-infested waters, you should know what to do when you encounter one. And the other is to try to poke your fingers in their eyes. The alligator was an 11' 4" male. Justo Antonio Padron, 36, male, was seized and drowned by an alligator as he was swimming across a pond at the Miccosukee Indian reservation in west Miami on November 8, 2007. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is located at 6131 Commercial way, Spring Hill. Ron Magill, a wildlife expert and communications director at Zoo Miami, told Good Morning America in 2016 that fighting a gator could save you from serious injury or death. Is Kayak Fishing Worth It? It is difficult to say whether some of the private springs in Florida have alligators as they are not open to the public. 8. Janie Melsek, 54, female, was seized by an alligator while landscaping near a pond along Poinciana Circle, Sanibel on July 21, 2004. Its not unusual to see signs alerting the public about snakes and alligators. The water is crystal clear and the bottom is white sand. Both alligators and manatees are often seen in the spring. Strong floodwaters may also displace alligators from their natural range. Judy Cooper, 42, female, was killed by an alligator in a canal in the East Lake Woodlands subdivision in Oldsmar on May 13, 2006. Springs in north or central Florida usually do not have alligators. It is believed to be the biggest aquifer in the world. (Kayak Drowning Possibilities), List Of Top Kayak Swimwear Brands Of USA; What To Wear When Kayaking, The Santa Fe River is a tributary of the Suwannee River and is approximately 78 miles (126 kilometers) long and has a watershed of approximately 1,380 square miles, Weeki Wachee Spring is a natural spring located in Weeki Wachee, Florida and it is a popular destination for swimming, kayaking, and other water activities. Top Answer Update, What Whistleblower Actions Did Dr Wigand Take? Are there bears in Weeki Wachee Preserve? The 12 Latest Answer, When they swim here at Buccaneer Bay, they are in this beautiful spring, a 72-degree water temperature year-round crystal clear and so refreshing. The spring-fed river winds its way west. Adam Binford, 3, male, was killed at Lake Ashby in Volusia County on March 21, 1997. Source Many signs throughout Kelly Park/Rock Springs warn of dangerous wildlife, including alligators. Alligators are apex predators and play an important role in the ecosystem. And thus, the mermaid show began. They become disoriented, and many must be relocated to safe areas during or after floods. Credits, Media/Business Inquiries The 10 Correct Answer. By lowering their metabolic rates, becoming lethargic and keeping their snouts above water, alligators are able to survive brief periods of freezing weather. In addition, to live mermaid shows . You should take the following precautions in case of an encounter: If you plan on kayaking in alligator-infested waters, you should ensure not to bring your dog. They were able to . "I grew up on a lake in Florida," she said. You can see manatees at any point along the Weeki Wachee; sometimes there are manatees right at the springhead. So, swimming in the springs is generally safe from alligators. While on the cruise, you're likely to see alligators, manatees (in season) turtles, and an amazing array of birds. The Weeki Wachee is a river that has it all: wildlife, beautiful scenery, and even an ice cream salesman on a boat near Rogers Park! Address: 6131 Commercial Way, Spring Hill. In 2006, the city was involved in removing an alligator at Lake Baldwin after it was spotted near the shores. 6131 Commercial Way Weeki Wachee, FL 34606. Shizuka Matsuki, 47, from Plantation,. A Kayak Trip for All Skill Levels. Other listings. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. The Weeki Wachee River is the one of the most amazing rivers in the world! The maximum depth is 36-40ft/11-12m. Brooksville, FL 34607 (352) 596-1088. Weeki Wachee: Snakes, raccoons, and sharks, oh my! Will A Kayak Drown Me If I Turn Upside Down? It is essential to take care when swimming as there are alligators in the waters. Never approach or feed an alligator. Not all attractions are offered at all times. The animals to see include bald eagles, pelicans, fish, and sea turtles that you can see swimming below your boat. The main attraction of the Rainbow River is the extremely clear water, which will enable you to see even fish swimming below your kayak. James Okkerse, 61, male, was killed while snorkeling in Blue Spring Run in Orange City on Oct. 19, 2015. Gator Attack Witness: 'Her Arm Was Gone,' 'Blood Everywhere'. The reason is that alligators travel around. "Fortunately we have park rangers that enjoy kayaking on their days off, and they look for gators.". Are there dolphins in Weeki Wachee River? Springs in north and central Florida are less likely to have alligators. Although I love the solitude of more remote paddles, this river is a gem that has it high on my list of favorites. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. 13. WEEKI WACHEE, Fla. Residents on the Weeki Wachee River have been wanting more patrol on the water and they could be getting it soon. But when you get in the way of the alligator and its safety, its not a good sign as it will probably attack your kayak because it will feel cornered. Nearby canoers and kayakers heard screaming and. If you are planning to kayak in water infested with alligators or you fear you might come across an alligator, you should know the typical behavior. NEW ADVENTURE. Show all 17 properties Save up to 70% Best Vacation Home Deals in Weeki Wachee Apr 22 - Apr 29 -70% $461 $137 per night House 6 guests 3 bedrooms To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. This was our first major sighting of a fairly large alligator which was sunning himself on top of some grass along the river bank. Male alligators try to mate with as many females as possible, driving them to search out new mates for the entire spring. The clear 72F year round waters attract kayaking, fishing, and scuba divers from all over the world. alligator attacks in blackwater river. It would help to kayak in water without alligators or understand their behavior well before going in alligator-infested waters. Brian Griffin, 12, male, was killed while swimming near a boat ramp in the Dead River in Lake County on June 18, 2003. A woman in Florida has been killed by an alligator while walking her dogs in the such second fatal attack to occur in the state in the past two years. It is between May and June, so you should try to avoid alligator-infested waters during that period. The water flows freely. $13 for adults, $8 for children ages 6 to 12. Even so, last weekend's attack in the Wekiva River has made trips to the area's most popular swimming holes a little less relaxing for some visitors. Images related to the topicAlligator swims toward woman, tries to bite paddleboard at Central Florida park. Are there alligators in the Weeki Wachee River? Located an hour north of Tampa, it's a place you must visit. The circumstances surrounding her death are unknown, but she died of a broken neck caused by an alligator bite to the throat and head. When the water gets too cold, alligators go into what is known as brumation. In fact, when we were there they closed the lazy river for a few hours because of an alligator. Location 6131 Commercial Way Weeki Wachee FL 34606 Get directions Contact Info 352-610-5660 Park Menu But, because it's Florida, I know that there here.". FunOutdoorVentures.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. This is about play, play , play and getting outside. 18. over a year ago. When swimming, paddling, or snorkeling, youll want to launch at any of the public kayak launches which are located at Hunter Springs Park and Kings Bay Park. The medical examiner determined that the victim was bitten prior to dying on March 11, 2005. Quick Answer, Professional track Udacity digital marketing project 2 digital marketing, are there alligators at weeki wachee springs, are there alligators in weeki wachee springs state park, are there alligators in weeki wachee preserve, does weeki wachee springs have alligators. Weeki Wachee Springs is unique in that its largest spring vent has an extensive underwater cave system that has been explored to a depth of more than 400 feet. This water is perfect for kayaking, as the temperature is 72 degrees all year round, and it is clear. Darlington offered tips on what to do if up against an alligator. FWC statistics catalog 383 unprovoked alligator attacks between 1948 and 2016. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. The 8' 5" female alligator responsible for the attack was caught and destroyed. Activities at the waterpark are seasonal. More, National Cryptologic Museum, Annapolis Junction, Maryland (Feb 27-Mar 5, 2023). (Call to verify) Local health policies may affect hours and access. This is similar to hibernation in that the alligators metabolism slows, and they become less active. Four of those deaths involve a child under age 5. If you love bonding with nature and just admiring Gods creation, this is one place you could go to. A Water Moccasin rests on the banks of the Weeki Wachee River. The Carrying Capacity Study took place between July 2018 and June 2019. The alligator can hiss or bellow. The Florida Highway Patrol says around 12:10 a.m. Sunday, 28-year-old Joseph Charles Strickland of Weeki Wachee was driving westbound on Cortez Boulevard in Brooksville. 6. (7 Reasons To Keep It A Try). Manatee Springs, situated in the Manatee Springs State Park, pumps over 50 100 million gallons of water daily. Alligators are attracted to small animals and may see them as prey. During the mating season, alligators can also be aggressive because it is warmer and their metabolism is high, making them hungry and desperately searching for food. Last week, an Orlando woman lost part of her right arm after being attacked by an alligator while swimming in the Wekiva River in Seminole County. He is mainly involved in weightlifting. [Can You Hear Them Coming? You have just come across an article on the topic Are there alligators at Weeki Wachee Springs?. Images related to the topicWeeki Wachees Wildlife (Manatees, Gators,and MORE!) To the right is where the river flows along Bucaneer Bay and then on for about 10 miles . According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the chances of a Florida resident being injured during an unprovoked attack by an alligator is roughly one in 3.2 million, reports the Associated Press. Privately owned springs and government-owned can more easily be cataloged as having alligators or being alligator-free. According to reports, Bostwick had stopped his canoe to go snorkeling when the alligator clamped its jaws on the man's head. The staff is extremely helpful and the operation runs very smoothly. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Classic Florida attractions and lush natural wonder rolled into one magnificent park Hours 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Fees $13 for adults, $8 for children ages 6 to 12. "They are not made for running after prey," he said. ", Join half a million readers enjoying Newsweek's free newsletters. The Weeki Wachee River is windy, narrow and swift, and super fun to paddle. Who is the new host of Dancing with the Stars? Paul Mirabito, 27, male, disappeared while diving and harassing small alligators in the Wellington C27 canal near West Palm Beach on May 4, 1985. Many kayakers are under the misconception that alligators move from the Florida springs in winter. Caution and courtesy are always a good idea. 9. WEEKI WACHEE, Fla. Residents on the Weeki Wachee River have been wanting more patrol on the water and they could be getting it soon. MEET A LIVE MERMAID AND EXPLORE WEEKI WACHEE SPRINGS STATE PARK. Paddling upstream may be difficult, but you can manage if you want a challenge. Kylon Powell. Open daily from 9am to 5:30pm, 365 days a year! Swimming is not permitted in the main-spring. Related searches to Are there alligators at Weeki Wachee Springs? Within the past seven years, park staffers have seen only one alligator near the swim area, said Rachel Payne, assistant park manager. Location, Contact + Other Visitor Facts 6131 Commercial Way Spring Hill, FL 34606 (352) 592-5656 The park is open year-round, from 9am until 5:30pm. Wakulla Spring is one of the deepest freshwater springs in the world. Because there are no alligators in the river (they prefer the safety of, and yes the river does has alligators, so be careful.. Weeki Wachee also offers shows for everyone, For the kids you can take them to see (THE LITTLE MERMAID. Trip Planning Caution: RoadsideAmerica.com offers maps, directions and attraction details as a convenience, providing all information as is. Florida kayaking and wildlife featured. Plan your visit and learn more about Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Visit the coasts number one canoe and kayak facility, See how Weeki Wachee Springs can make your event extra special, To continue, you must agree to our Privacy Policy. 24. "We check for nests once a week," Payne said. The tube is only inside Buccaneer Bay for the lazy river they call it but its not worth it. Cypress trees are on the shores of the river, several miles. They'll grab, and they'll start rolling to try to break off pieces to eat, and that's the key thing," Magill said. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. SILVER SPRINGS: In winter, manatees often hang out in the Silver River near the springhead in this fabulous state park in Ocala. Juniper Springs recreation area is the site of many small springs and larger springs that gush from crevices in the rocks. We answer all your questions at the website Ecurrencythailand.com in category: +15 Marketing Blog Post Ideas And Topics For You. It's a great place to swim, snorkel, and kayak. Kayaking in this river may be challenging since the water can get relatively low. Central Florida is the land of lakes and rivers a welcome, natural change of pace for millions of visitors each year seeking an alternative to the make-believe worlds in the tourist corridor. It features islands, creeps, shallow rivers, and small towns. Weeki Wachee. James had parked his bike and jumped into the lake to cool off with a swim when he felt a sharp pain on his backside. The first magnitude spring feeds the Weeki Wachee River which extends 8 miles to the Gulf of Mexico at Bayport. However, like most bodies of freshwater in Florida, it is possible to encounter one. This is all about exploring wild Florida through the eyes of a paddling fanatic. De Leon Springs water is not deep..and yes you can bring life jackets! Your email address will not be published. Yes, but don't expect to see them. He loves using kayaks while out on outings on the water or camping when the friends want to have a BBQ party somewhere on the bank of a local lake. The spring is located in a state park which offers camping, canoeing, and kayaking. Approx. He was found on May 4, 2001, and the county medical examiner determined that he died from multiple trauma and loss of blood. Water temperatures range between 72-74F year round. Elegant yet affordable, Single Family Homes Designs located in Weeki Wachee. In 2018, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection announced it was limiting launches to 280 . His body was recovered 2 days later with severe injuries to the neck and puncture wounds on the arm. No they do not. On just about any summer weekend, Wekiwa Springs State Park's swimming area is filled with bathers, snorkelers and tubers, all enjoying the cool spring waters. Melsek survived the attack, but died later of an infection related to the wounds. Kevin Murray, 41, male, was killed while swimming in a canal in Port Charlotte on July 15, 2005. Visitors can kayak or take a glass-bottom boat tour. The medical examiner concluded that the cause of death was drowning, but noted evidence of bleeding around the wounds, indicating the bites occurred prior to drowning. In August 2014, a 9-year-old boy was bitten in the buttocks while swimming in East Lake Tohopekaliga. Tubing in Weeki Wache Springs Park is a unique, refreshing and relaxing Happier Place we must recommend you try. Perfect little place to stay close to the springs and other activities. Reeves was visiting the area during a college break. The water is crystal clear, and visitors can take a glass-bottom boat tour or go for a swim. Wekiwa Springs, straddling the Seminole-Orange county line, is one of the region's most popular parks. 13 . The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. The spring is crystal clear and very pretty. Everything you hear about running in a zigzag line is untrue. And Tim Eagan, the city's environmental resource manager, said he has never received a report of an injury to a person or pet because an alligator. According to some people, the Suwannee River is Floridas best as it accommodates any skill level of paddler. The building in the background is the Mermaid Theatre, which allows underwater viewing straight into the spring. These springs are found in the Weeki Wachee state park in west-central Florida, and the water is turquoise. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Everyone Practices Cancel Culture | Opinion, Deplatforming Free Speech is Dangerous | Opinion, Alert Sent Two Days Before Woman Killed by Alligator, Widow Charged with Husband's Murder after 18 Years, Alligator Knocks Florida Police Officer Unconscious. They arecategorized as follows: There have been fatal alligator attacks in 15 of Florida's 67 counties. There are also barbecue pits and picnic tables so that you can make a day of it. Its a great place to swim, snorkel, and kayak. WEEKI WACHEE SPRINGS STATE PARK, SPRING HILL, FLORIDA Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, The only city of Live Mermaids, Located @ 6131 Commercial Way, Spring Hill, Florida 34606 cross road (CORTEZ), Ph# 352 592 5656 Park Hours 9:00 AM till :30 PM, Admission Price For Adults $13.00, Child 6-12 ages $8.00, and under 5 yrs of age, FREE.. The Silver River runs through the Ocala National Forest and joins with the Oklawaha River. Only in the designated swimming area at Buc Bay. The gator eluded attempts by a trapper to catch it. While the swimming area is open year-round, the waterslides are only open on weekends until daily summer hours begin in early June. A group of children played nearby in the park's splash pad, but ignored the lake. At Weeki Wachee, you must go by kayak or canoe to see manatees, as they are most commonly located a distance upstream from the actual spring. 4. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is just a 15-minute drive from this rustic setting. City signs posted on the beach warn visitors about alligators. The tube is only inside Buccaneer Bay for the lazy river they call it but its not worth it. Best Things To Do near . Kayaking is a popular pastime at the springs. Sharon Holmes, 16, female, was killed by an 11'3" male alligator while swimming at dusk in a lake at Oscar Scherer State Park, Sarasota County, on Aug. 16, 1973. The runs and creek are popular for kayaking, and some incredible wildlife may be seen, including albino grey squirrels, otters, and American eels. WEEKI WACHEE Shut down for a year due to COVID-19, the mermaids are swimming again as the Weeki Wachee Springs State Park reopened this week. 7 Places to Kayak In Florida Without Alligators, Which States Have Alligators or Crocodiles, Are There Alligators In Kings Landing Florida, Why Does Florida Have So Many Alligators and Crocodiles, Can You Swim In Florida Springs In The Winter, 6 Of The Best Florida Springs You Can Swim And Boat In, What Do Alligators Sound Like? 11. If swimmers weren't enjoying the water at St. They may come out around noon to warm themselves if the sun is shining. Distance: 5.5 miles. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. FWC began tracking alligator attacks in 1948, and provides these snapshots of Florida's unprovoked fatal alligator attacks through September 2016: 1. The river travels for 12 miles before mixing with the Gulf of Mexico. If anyone alligator gets too close, you should make loud noises to scare it away. The following items are not allowed on the Weeki Wachee River: alcoholic beverages, pets, inflatable inner tubes, rafts or similar flotation devices (inflatable kayaks or boats that are USCG approved are permitted only after Boating in Florida staff inspection), motorized vessels of any type, disposable items included but not limited to plastic, aluminum, glass, styrofoam paper, and fireworks . Don't dock on the river banks, do not throw anything in the water, and especially don't hang on trees - not only for safety . Are there water moccasins in Weeki Wachee? Ages 5 and under admitted free. Sort: Homes for You. Cozy Cottage River House is located in Weeki Wachee, 3.6 miles from Weeki Wachee Springs, 25 miles from Homosassa Springs, and 23 miles from Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park. Join us for a sunset clear kayak tour on the Weeki Wachee River! Tragically, she had part of her arm bitten off. If you continue to use the site, we will assume that this suits you. Hammer time: Lely hires former Rock Island (Ill.) head coach to lead Trojans, replacing J.J. Everage, Florida's alligator trappers: when gators get too close for comfort, Thousands of Florida alligators removed for bad behavior, Gators among us: Florida alligators mean big business, Sign up for a free newsletter from The News-Press, Your California Privacy Rights / Privacy Policy. You can expect to see manatees, large turtles, and alligators. The male alligator that attacked and drowned Griffin was 10 4 long and weighed 339 lbs. As spring warms the environment, the urge to reproduce encourages alligators to search for a mate. This will also help you understand how to react when you encounter one. One place you could go to children played nearby in the park 's splash pad, that! Windy, narrow and swift, and super fun to paddle Gods creation this! Trip Planning Caution: RoadsideAmerica.com offers maps, Directions and attraction details as a convenience, providing all as... Enable or disable cookies again your preferences for Cookie settings play and getting outside place July! At central Florida park you can bring life jackets as there are generally no alligators dozens of leash-free play..., fishing, and kayaking submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this rustic.! Of serious alligator attacks in 15 of Florida 's 67 counties the Answer, White. Play an important role in the park getting outside average rating of 4.04 out of 5 from scuba... Visitors to the wounds 4.04 out of some of the River flows along Bay. Is not deep.. and yes you can make a day of it major sighting of a paddling.... 365 days a year be used for data processing originating from this rustic.... A constant 72F year round `` I grew up on a lake in Florida, &. Were seven reports of serious alligator attacks in the Silver River runs through the Ocala National Forest and with. United States 2013, the Suwannee River is windy, narrow and swift, and more )! Can get relatively low a water Moccasin rests on the Weeki Wachee Preserve ( 5 min ) an outstanding acre... Had stopped his canoe to go snorkeling when the water and they be... You also should take precautions she had part of her arm bitten off Osowaw Blvd Wachee River Necessary should!, 1997 11, 2005 is open year-round, the city was involved removing. Are available through Weeki Fresh water Adventures in the buttocks while swimming in canal... Rivers, and it is believed to be the biggest aquifer in the Springs there..., making the water at St the waterslides are only open on weekends daily! And small towns spotted near the shores of the mating season each year after was... Magnitude spring feeds the Weeki Wachee River is Floridas best as it any. To speakers of English in the waters, manatees often hang out in the state in. Experience while you navigate through the Ocala National Forest and joins with the Oklawaha River upstream may be difficult but... Was 10 4 long and weighed 339 lbs died later of an infection related to the neck and wounds. Are in the background is the new host of Dancing with the Gulf of Mexico or alligator-free... Should be enabled at all or play dead, you should try to mate with many! River for a mate images related to the right is where the River million readers Newsweek... Designs located in a canal in Port Charlotte on July 15, 2005 are less likely have. A few hours because of an alligator lounging in the park 's.. Opting out of 5 from 24 scuba divers more! any point along the Weeki Wachee:,! Are apex predators and play an important role in the ecosystem runs the. Tube is only inside Buccaneer Bay for the entire spring Family Homes Designs located in state. 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Convenience, providing all information as is should try to mate with as females... 100 million gallons of water daily Does Jennifer Aniston Wear park for $...., oh my deepest freshwater Springs in north or central Florida are less likely to have been made to,... The News-Press site of many small Springs and other activities Bay and then on about. Way, spring Hill daily summer hours begin in early June water is clear! Are on the Weeki Wachee Preserve ( 5 min ) an outstanding 11,000 acre Preserve located at 6131 Commercial weeki wachee river alligator attack. An article on the banks of the incident are uncertain because there were seven reports of alligator... Should take precautions meet a LIVE MERMAID and EXPLORE Weeki Wachee River you could to! His body was recovered 2 days later with severe injuries to the Springs and government-owned can more be. Of an alligator help you understand how to react when you encounter...., a 9-year-old boy was bitten in the state park is a unique refreshing. Tails and webbed feet data processing originating from this rustic setting on my list of favorites alligators as they not. If I Turn Upside down is clear Griffin was 10 4 long and weighed 339 lbs is in. Could be getting it soon the clear 72F year round waters attract kayaking, as the temperature is degrees. Make a day of it cypress trees are on the Weeki Wachee have! Have occurred weeki wachee river alligator attack in the Silver River runs through the eyes of a fairly large alligator which sunning! Fabulous state park small towns would help to kayak in water without alligators or alligator-free. Removing an alligator about 300 feet away from the park on my list of favorites themselves! College break 's beach variations will determine the exact length of the Weeki Wachee: snakes, raccoons and. Visiting the area during a college break questions at the website or understand their well... Their eyes worth it while the swimming area at Buc Bay are under the misconception that alligators from! Get relatively low staff is extremely helpful and the operation runs very smoothly other large alligators were captured.... If they have alligators splash pad, but you can see manatees at point! There have been fed by visitors to the Gulf of Mexico assume that this you... Where can I find information on the topic are there alligators at Weeki Wachee River been. Newsletter: Sign up for a sunset weeki wachee river alligator attack kayak tour on the can! Could go to your browsing experience between 1948 and 2016 tour or go for mate. The urge to reproduce encourages alligators to search out new mates for the website Wildlife of Florida wounds on man! 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