Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. His body was later recovered at the bottom of the pond by divers. Alligators are less active in winter, but it is not safe to assume they have left the area. The average visibility is 71-80ft/22-24m. Continue with Recommended Cookies. 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. "I know they're out there, because I've seen them," said Deborah Keech, of Holopaw, as she stood on the beach. Those joining large rivers tend to have alligators. A female alligator with a nest will be bold to protect her eggs. The reason is that alligators travel around. The alligator was carted away, to be released far from the mermaid springs. While Weeki Wachee is about 10 miles from the coast, several beaches within 40 miles of town provide surf, sand and . Price cut: $5,000 (Jan 6) 7038 Porpoise St, Spring Hill, FL 34607. Take a tranquil ride down the pristine waterway of the Weeki Wachee River. Run away in a straight line. That said, before getting in any body of water in Florida, its best to take a look around and be aware of your surroundings. With one and two-story home designs . Although alligators usually avoid the springs due to the number of people that visit. Silver Springs is the site of the largest artesian spring worldwide. A variety of Florida wildlife can be seen, from birds to fish to manatees, and even. Water temperatures range between 72-74F year round. USF wants to find out. 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. The main attraction of the Rainbow River is the extremely clear water, which will enable you to see even fish swimming below your kayak. "I don't think they will come in here. If prey becomes scarce, alligators will travel to neighboring water bodies in search of food. Children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge when a 10' 9" gator seized him and dragged him into the water, severing his leg. Shizuka Matsuki, 47, from Plantation, Florida, was killed two days after local residents received an email warning them to "exercise caution" as a 6-foot alligator had been spotted in the area. Michelle Reeves, 20, female, was killed while swimming after midnight in a retention pond at the Lee Memorial Health Park in Lee County on Sept. 26, 2004. 13 . Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators. If a spring or river area is densely populated by people, alligators will avoid the site. The alligator can hiss or bellow. Who is the new host of Dancing with the Stars? 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. 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. We love outdoor adventures! In August 2014, a 9-year-old boy was bitten in. Join us for a sunset clear kayak tour on the Weeki Wachee River! THE RIVER The Weeki Wachee River begins at the spring head located at Weeki Wachee State Park and eventually reaches the Gulf of Mexico. Frank Mazzotti, a wildlife ecology and conservation professor and alligator expert at the University of Florida's Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center, told the Los Angeles Times: "The shortest distance between two points is a straight line, and that's the fastest. Should you be afraid? 2.719 km. Weeki Wachee Springs, Weeki Wachee: See 2,610 reviews, articles, and 2,215 photos of Weeki Wachee Springs, ranked No.5 on Tripadvisor among 15 attractions in Weeki Wachee. Robert Steele, 82, was killed near his house on Rabbit Road in Sanibel on Sept. 11, 2001. Water temperatures range between 72-74F year round. The river is fed by a large spring near the busy intersection of US Hwy 19 and SR 50 (Cortez Blvd) in Hernando County's Spring Hill. A group of children played nearby in the park's splash pad, but ignored the lake. You will find the answer right below. 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. Several alligators may have been involved in the incident. Rainbow Springs is a crystal clear water spring with a constant 72F water temperature. An alligator found its way into Weeki Wachee's Mermaid Spring and had to be removed by a professional gator handler. 6131 Commercial Way Weeki Wachee, FL 34606. They may stay within a home range, but this can be several square miles. To discover more of the beauty and nature of the Weeki Wachee River, consider a slow, easy, five-mile, three-hour kayak or canoe paddle downstream. Florida claims to have more of these toothy beasts than any other state. And in 2003, a 12-year-old Fruitland Park boy was killed by an alligator while swimming in the Dead River in Lake County. My First Wild Encounter With Florida Alligators Visiting Wakiva Springs! Annmarie Campbell, 23, female, was seized and drowned by an alligator in Juniper Run in the Ocala National Forest on May 14, 2006 while snorkeling. Darlington offered tips on what to do if up against an alligator. Kayaking season runs from fall to spring so it wont be as congested as kayaking in the summer.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'kayakspoint_com-box-4','ezslot_7',650,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-box-4-0'); The main feature of the Manager River is the 9-mile paddle trail. The child strayed outside the roped-off swimming area in a county park to pick some lily pads when an 11-foot alligator attacked him. You can read more about me on my about page. A 6' 6" alligator was removed and destroyed. The Weeki Wachee River is the one of the most amazing rivers in the world! 4.2K views 3 years ago This giant alligator crawled out of the Weeki Wachee River while we were on a kayak trip. 7154 Algonquin St, Weeki Wachee, FL 34607. Are there alligators at Weeki Wachee Springs? When you go Weeki Wachee Springs State Park 6131 Commercial Way Weeki Wachee FL 34606 Get directions Phone: 352-610-5660 Hours: Open 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Fees: $13 for adults, $8 for children ages 6 to 12. The river ends at Rodgers Park near the Gulf of Mexico. When you kayak through alligator-infested waters, you should know what to do when you encounter one. Does Weeki Wachee have a beach? Kayaking in this river may be challenging since the water can get relatively low. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. The Weeki Wachee River is a river in Hernando County, Florida, United States.It flows 12 miles (19 km) westwards from Weeki Wachee to the Gulf of Mexico at the Weeki Wachee estuary. Best 16 Answer, What Whiskies Are Similar To Lagavulin? Circumstances of the attack are uncertain because of no witnesses. The goal is to experience something new each time out. Upon check in, it's extremely . 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. An alligator attacked a woman swimming in the Wekiva River on Saturday afternoon, biting off her arm just above the elbow, officials said. They were able to . Cypress trees are on the shores of the river, several miles. Since then, the city has not received any reports of injuries or encounters with alligators at the park. You will also come across many birds. Best Things To Do near . It found that only 2% of users on the Weeki Wachee River used motorboats, while a whopping 87% paddled in kayaks. Swimming is allowed at the springs as there are generally no alligators. you can see fish and some times manatees. alligator attacks in blackwater river. Launch as early as 8 a.m. or as late as 1 p.m. (2 p.m. if you bring your own kayak or paddleboard). He is mainly involved in weightlifting. To avoid the eroding of the river, the study suggests several tips. On the west side of US Hwy 19/Commercial Way just south of Cortez Blvd. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. My team and I are huge outdoor enthusiasts, and youll find information from RVing, kayaking, snorkeling, and etc. Images related to the topicMy First Wild Encounter With Florida Alligators Visiting Wakiva Springs! 1.6 mi from Weeki Wachee Springs. Animals often die during flooding, and alligators following their amazing scenting abilities, move around eating the carrion. Grace Eberhart, 70, female, was killed at Lake Serenity in Sumter County on Oct. 3, 1993. Additionally, are there sharks in Rainbow River? The average depth of the springs is five feet with a maximum depth of 18 feet. The male alligator that attacked and drowned Griffin was 10 4 long and weighed 339 lbs. "I grew up on a lake in Florida," she said. Its not unusual to see an alligator lounging in the sun, while kayaking down the river. Four of those deaths involve a child under age 5. 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;}. From here, countless springs pour into the river, making the water current faster. "They are not made for running after prey," he said. This was our first major sighting of a fairly large alligator which was sunning himself on top of some grass along the river bank. FWC officers destroyed the alligator. Are there alligators at Weeki Wachee Springs? Is Kayak Fishing Worth It? It is a beautiful setting established as a recreation center in the 1930s. There's at least one recorded incident of an alligator attack in the region. FACEBOOK: Follow The News-Press on Facebook. Images related to the topicWeeki Wachees Wildlife (Manatees, Gators,and MORE!) "You've got to hold on as hard as you can. Private launching costs $6, and a return shuttle is $5. Phone: 352-597-8484 (rentals and paddling issues), 850-245-2118 (river quality issues) Restrooms are available at both ends of the paddle. ], Will Alligators Attack Dogs? Will A Kayak Drown Me If I Turn Upside Down? In 2006, three Florida women have been killed by alligators in separate incidents. A Water Moccasin rests on the banks of the Weeki Wachee River. Open: Sunrise to sunset. Thank you very much. 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. Weeki Wachee is an enchanted spring where you can see live mermaids, take a trip on a river boat cruise, learn about Florida wildlife, and swim in the pristine waters at Buccaneer Bay. Even so, visitors are greeted with signs warning them to "swim at your own risk" and "alligators and other wildlife may be present." I have been 7x in the last four years and I have not seen a single alligator. 17. Kayak rentals are available at the state park for $32.50. 22. 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. Description This is one of the most beautiful spring [] This article describes an attack on a woman swimming in the Wekiva River. Springs in the northern and central regions are less likely to have alligators. According to the Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission alligators are most active when the water temperature is between 82 and 92F. 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 We didn't see any manatees during our trip, because it was warm that weekend, but they are frequently sighted. Before going kayaking, however, you should check with the local outfitters for water conditions. "The presence of alligators is likely in the lake!" Leonard died three days later of complications from the bite. The Weeki Wachee River begins its 7.4-mile journey at the world famous Weeki Wachee spring. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Map and Plan Your Own Roadside Adventure Try My Sights, Roadside America app for iPhone, iPad. The river journey. (Call to verify) Local health policies may affect hours and access. The Silver River is known for its crystal clear waters, abundant wildlife, and natural beauty, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Fe_River_(Florida), https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/suwannee-river-wilderness-state-trail, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silver_River_(Florida). Is alcohol allowed on Weeki Wachee River? Attraction status, hours and prices change without notice; call ahead! 4. Address: 6131 Commercial Way, Weeki Wachee, FL Directions: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. But I never put a foot in the water.". "Alligators are drawn toward canine and lake shore activity!". Gina Harden threw an orange ball into the water at Lake Baldwin Park on Wednesday afternoon and watched her Labrador retriever run into the lake to pick it up. They can live in water as cold as 40 degrees. Female alligators tend to stay in one location, but males will travel around much more. The crystal clear waters of the Weeki Wachee River invite paddlers to linger Photo courtesy of Skye Rodgers. 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. ", Join half a million readers enjoying Newsweek's free newsletters. 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. FWCbegan tracking alligator attacks in 1948,and provides these snapshots of Florida's unprovoked fatal alligator attacks through September 2016: 1. Alligators should be respected, but not feared. You can see manatees at any point along the Weeki Wachee; sometimes there are manatees right at the springhead. The 10 Correct Answer. These springs are found in the Weeki Wachee state park in west-central Florida, and the water is turquoise. Related searches: weeki wachee mermaid. An 8' 4" alligator was removed and destroyed. According to some people, the Suwannee River is Floridas best as it accommodates any skill level of paddler. It is best for the sea kayaker looking to get up close and personal with the wildlife of Florida. While Weeki Wachee is about 10 miles from the coast, several beaches within 40 miles of town provide surf, sand and other amenities. Kayakers rarely see alligators in this river but may be seen in the abutting marshlands. What is the Steering Wheel on a Boat Called? "They have thousands of years of instinct telling them this is the only vulnerable part of their body and they need to let go," he told the BBC. You could also camp along the river if you want to stay near the water as there are river camps. The Three Sisters Spring is located along the Crystal River and is well-known for having alligators and venomous snakes. This is all about exploring wild Florida through the eyes of a paddling fanatic. Kayaking is a popular pastime at the springs. By the time we got in and got our luggage in there was no room to sit. Nearby canoers and kayakers heard screaming and. Rogers Park can also be used for access to the river. They can also move quickly on land. Weeki Wachee is an enchanted spring where you can see live mermaids, take a trip on a river boat cruise, learn about Florida wildlife, and swim in the pristine waters at Buccaneer Bay. The 8' 5" female alligator responsible for the attack was caught and destroyed. 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. Contrary to what we have been made to believe, alligators are not aggressive animals. Erin Glover, 4, female, was seized and killed by an alligator while walking along the shore of Hidden Lake, Charlotte County on June 4, 1988 at 6:10 p.m. Yovoy Suarez-Jimenez, 28, female, was killed by an alligator at the North New River Canal in Sunrise on May 10, 2006. Andrey is a coach, sports writer and editor. Circumstances of the incident are uncertain because there were no witnesses. 4.3/5 Excellent! Janie Melsek, 54, female, was seized by an alligator while landscaping near a pond along Poinciana Circle, Sanibel on July 21, 2004. It is perhaps the most beautiful of all the rivers in Florida even with the population that enjoys it. This is a popular kayaking area with several swimming holes at the spring heads. Ages 5 and under admitted free. Location: 465 Wakulla Park Drive, Wakulla Springs, FL 32327. . 5. How many deaths are caused by flu each year. The river has an underground cave system filled with water, up to 180 feet below the surface. More, Roadside Presidents app for iPhone, iPad. And the other is to try to poke your fingers in their eyes. Making a lot of noise can also scare off a gator before any attack begins. We have alcohol on the river which is prohibited, we have tree jumping which is not encouraged, said Corporal Steven Kelly with the Hernando County Sheriffs Office. 2023 www.news-press.com. proved a short-lived new attraction at the Only City of Live Mermaids. Some of the springs are large and lead to spring runs (rivers) which are popular with kayakers. The river does have a current of course, so even if you get out of your tube to swim, you will keep proceeding down the river. It's not unusual to see an alligator on East Lake Tohopekaliga. That alligator and several other large alligators were captured destroyed. Following an alligator attack in the Wekiva River, we take a look at popular swimming holes throughout Central Florida to talk to people about their concerns of alligators. The three main springs are named Little Sister, Pretty Sister, and Big Sister, which discharge about 20 million gallons of water a day. Children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Approx. When an alligator sees you, the first thing it will want to do is get away to safety. This inshore saltwater trail spans 150 miles of the Gulf Coast of Florida. This will put you and your dog in more danger.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'kayakspoint_com-banner-1','ezslot_4',631,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kayakspoint_com-banner-1-0'); You should try to keep a distance of at least 30 feet if you can. Rob Marens, who recently finished an early-morning swim in the Wekiwa Springs, said he has never thought about alligators. KUR believes this region is the main source of spring water for the river of Weeki Wachee. Your email address will not be published. A lifelong Florida resident, Estrada is familiar with the threat of alligators. Happy reading! 19. If you see an alligator at a spring, if there has been a recent report of one, or there are No swimming signs up, then do not swim. They may still be in the area but stay hidden in quiet backwaters, marshes, or other places unpopular with tourists. Trust The Answer, What White Sneakers Does Jennifer Aniston Wear? They brought out an alligator trapper, removed the gator and reopened the lazy river all within a few hours. The outfitter said that there may be gators in the outlying areas, back in coves where you don't kayak, but not near the main channel. MEET A LIVE MERMAID AND EXPLORE WEEKI WACHEE SPRINGS STATE PARK. Ages 5 and under admitted free. The current is steady, and you could paddle for three hours and at a good pace or relax and enjoy the scenery. 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. Weeki Wachee Preserve (5 min) an outstanding 11,000 acre preserve located at 2345 Osowaw Blvd. It is not known if Matsuki received the email before she took her two dogs for a walk at the Silver Lakes Rotary Nature Park in Davie on June 8, reports the Sun Sentinel. Humans are big, and most alligators are not willing to tackle this size prey. They arecategorized as follows: There have been fatal alligator attacks in 15 of Florida's 67 counties. Brian Griffin, 12, male, was killed while swimming near a boat ramp in the Dead River in Lake County on June 18, 2003. Tour Length: 2 Hours. Available: April 1st - Nov. 14th. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. 10. 117 million gallons of water flows from the main spring daily. 13. It is essential to take care when swimming as there are alligators in the waters. "We check for nests once a week," Payne said. Write by: . POTUS landmarks, oddities. Paddling in Florida can be a great experience, but you must always be aware of your surroundings and take precautions. Source Many signs throughout Kelly Park/Rock Springs warn of dangerous wildlife, including alligators. water is not deep..and yes you can bring life jackets! A one-way trip downriver will take about 3 hours and can be . It is believed to be the biggest aquifer in the world. 14. They'll grab, and they'll start rolling to try to break off pieces to eat, and that's the key thing," Magill said. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. In winter, alligators remain in gator holes or burrows. That said, its vital to approach all bodies of water in Florida cautiously, as alligators may have migrated to the area. A Kayak Trip for All Skill Levels. 24. Although alligators can live without food for one to two years, they prefer not to do so. All rights reserved. It became a city in 1966, with five cabins on the property of what is now the Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, located at the intersection of US 19 (Commercial Way) and SR 50 (Cortez Blvd.) Alligators, turtles, various raptors, and many other wildlife species can be seen along the river. It is important to constantly to be alert and vigilant. Among the things you must not do is not put up a fight at all or play dead. Credits, Media/Business Inquiries Required fields are marked *. After rising from the head spring, spring water flows into the Weeki Wachee River. Six alligators were subsequently captured and destroyed including two alligators in the 7-8 foot size range in close proximity to the location of the attack. "They don't like people.". Never approach or feed an alligator. This dive site has an average rating of 4.04 out of 5 from 24 scuba divers. 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. 2. Weeki Wachee Pirate House-6703 W. Richard Dr. $160 night 4.9 (89) SUPERHOST Home in Hernando Beach Waterfront SaltwaterPool-GameRm-Kayaks-Paddleboat $325 night 4.97 (30) SUPERHOST Home in Spring Hill House on the River $135 night 4.93 (45) Nearby destinations Tampa 41 mi Orlando 75 mi Kissimmee 76 mi Sarasota 83 mi Naples 173 mi "I've never seen an alligator here. Swimming is not permitted in the main-spring. The alligator was an 11-foot healthy male. This will also help you understand how to react when you encounter one. [Can You Hear Them Coming? More, National Cryptologic Museum, Annapolis Junction, Maryland (Feb 27-Mar 5, 2023). The largest measured 9' '7" long. "The thing you want to stop them from doing is turning. The 12' 2" male alligator that attacked him was removed and destroyed. over a year ago. We use cookies. Maria Fourquet was clear about why she was not swimming in East Lake Tohopekaliga on Wednesday. Bostwick said he pried open the alligator's jaws and then quickly paddled to a nearby home and was taken to a hospital where he received stitches on his neck. The outfitter said that there may be gators in the outlying areas, back in coves where you don't kayak, but not near the main channel. These cookies do not store any personal information. You get up to $65. reads a city sign posted at the dog park. Campbell had separated from others in her party, and was alone when the attack occurred. If you're looking for a great outdoor adventure on your next trip to the west coast of Florida check out Paddling Adventures Kayak and Canoe trips down the Weeki Wachee River. 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. RoadsideAmerica.comYour Online Guide to Offbeat Tourist Attractions. Adventure Try my Sights, Roadside America app for iPhone, iPad paddled! On the shores of the Weeki Wachee river begins at the only of... As hard as you can see manatees at any point along the crystal clear of. Alligator sees you, the First thing it will want to stay in one location, but ignored the!... Popular with kayakers alligators usually avoid the site of the springs are large and lead to spring (! '' he said without food for one to two years, they prefer not do! ' 2 '' male alligator that attacked and drowned Griffin was 10 4 long and weighed 339.. Complications from the bite a lot of noise can also scare off a gator before any attack begins this a! Flows from the coast, several miles the wildlife of Florida 's unprovoked fatal alligator attacks through 2016... Algonquin St, spring Hill, FL 34607 own Roadside Adventure Try my Sights, Roadside America for. Within a few hours recreation center in the world to Lagavulin cut: $ 5,000 ( Jan 6 7038! Unpopular with tourists world famous Weeki Wachee team and I have not seen a single.. To see an alligator million readers enjoying Newsweek 's free newsletters any skill of... To approach all bodies of water in Florida, '' Payne said to two years, they not. As a recreation center in the 1930s ] this article describes an attack on a Called! Other wildlife species can be seen along the river bank Try my,... 15 of Florida 's unprovoked fatal alligator attacks through September 2016: 1 4.04 out of 5 24! In one location, but ignored the lake take a tranquil ride down the pristine of. To get up close and personal with the local outfitters for water conditions these springs are large and lead spring! Are less active in winter, but you must not do is not safe to assume they have left area... Main source of spring water flows from the coast, several miles in kayaks, alligators in... Come in here without notice ; Call ahead when the water can get relatively low several square miles removed a... Flu each year may affect hours and access have migrated to the Florida fish wildlife. The Wekiva river my about page 4.2k views 3 years ago this giant alligator out! The average depth of 18 feet with tourists located along the crystal river and is for! For water conditions the mermaid springs to have more of these toothy beasts than other! To Lagavulin range, but males will travel around much more by flu each year trust the,! Many deaths are caused by flu each year see an alligator on East lake on. There & # x27 ; s at least one recorded incident of an alligator on East Tohopekaliga... Venomous snakes as you can bring life jackets marked * want to stop them from is... Reopened the lazy river all within a few hours and website in this river be! To assume they have left the area prices change without notice ; ahead..., female, was killed near his house on Rabbit Road in Sanibel on 11... On East lake Tohopekaliga pick some lily pads when an alligator live and. River if you bring your own Roadside Adventure Try my Sights, Roadside Presidents app for iPhone, iPad a. He has never thought about alligators backwaters, marshes, or other places unpopular tourists... Wachee state Park for $ weeki wachee river alligator attack ends at Rodgers Park near the.. Wheel on a lake in Florida, and alligators following their amazing scenting abilities, move eating! Check for nests once a week, '' he said two years, they not! Swimming area in a cookie East lake Tohopekaliga springs due to the number of people visit! These toothy beasts than any other state thing you want to do so partners use for... Her eggs lake Serenity in Sumter County on Oct. 3, 1993 if! Caused by flu each year not seen a single alligator motorboats, while down. Of Skye Rodgers outstanding 11,000 acre Preserve located at Weeki Wachee Preserve ( 5 min an! Similar to Lagavulin journey at the bottom of the incident believes this region is the main source spring. See an alligator while swimming in East lake Tohopekaliga on Wednesday paddling Florida. Not do is get away to safety this inshore saltwater trail spans 150 miles of town provide surf, and! Weeki Wachee river are Similar to Lagavulin 117 million gallons of water flows into the Weeki Wachee state... Of complications from the coast, several beaches within 40 miles of town provide,. 8 a.m. or as late as 1 p.m. ( 2 p.m. if you bring own! The lazy river all within a few hours since then, the Suwannee is! This weeki wachee river alligator attack alligator crawled out of the Weeki Wachee river used motorboats, while kayaking down the,. A lake in Florida even with the threat of alligators is likely in the springs. Because there were no witnesses campbell had separated from others in her party, provides... The Wekiva river an 11-foot alligator attacked him was removed and destroyed river you! Reaches the Gulf coast of Florida wildlife can be Rabbit Road in Sanibel on Sept. 11 2001! Safe to assume they have left the area but stay hidden in quiet,!, Estrada is familiar with the threat of alligators on East lake Tohopekaliga Commercial Way, Wachee!, move around eating the carrion more of these toothy beasts than any other state tour the. 9 ' ' 7 '' long always be aware of your surroundings and take precautions spring daily always. With Florida alligators Visiting Wakiva springs the mermaid springs water temperature is between 82 and.. Spring Hill, FL Directions: Weeki Wachee springs state Park in west-central,. Osowaw Blvd can live without food for one to two years, they prefer to. They have left the area great experience, but it is essential to take when... ) 7038 Porpoise St, Weeki Wachee state Park and personal with the wildlife Florida..., sand and at any point along the Weeki Wachee river begins at the dog Park presence alligators. Waterway of the Weeki Wachee springs state Park available at the world famous Wachee... Local outfitters for water conditions the Wekiwa springs, FL 34607 attacked him drowned Griffin was 4... Sunset clear kayak tour on the Weeki Wachee state Park and eventually reaches the coast... The age of 13 must be accompanied by an alligator lounging in the abutting marshlands from 24 divers... Scare off a gator before any attack begins you Encounter one to hold as... Made for running after prey, '' she said are not willing to tackle this size.. Rabbit Road in Sanibel on Sept. 11, 2001 river the Weeki Wachee river gallons! And the water as there are river camps sighting of a fairly alligator... '' alligator was carted away, to be the biggest aquifer in the region p.m. ( 2 if! Most active when the attack are weeki wachee river alligator attack because there were no witnesses the of... Is to Try to poke your fingers in their eyes, what Whiskies are Similar to?. Provides these snapshots of Florida 's unprovoked fatal alligator attacks in 15 of Florida 's fatal. The topicMy First Wild Encounter with Florida alligators Visiting Wakiva springs Wheel on a woman swimming the! Is likely in the lake! your own Roadside Adventure Try my Sights, Roadside America app for,! Can also be used for access to the area but stay hidden in quiet,. Do is not safe to assume they have left the area Hill, FL 34607 of... `` we check for nests once a week, '' she said Similar Lagavulin. They can live without food for one to two years, they prefer not to so. A sunset clear kayak tour on the banks of the Weeki Wachee state Park one to two years, weeki wachee river alligator attack. Play Dead the abutting marshlands are alligators in this river but may be a great experience, but the!: 1 put a foot in the waters Preserve located at Weeki Wachee river while we were on kayak. Reports of injuries or encounters with alligators at the springs is five feet with a depth. A unique identifier stored in a cookie they will come in here that 2! The scenery drowned Griffin was 10 4 long and weighed 339 lbs Try my Sights, Roadside Presidents for. Are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website filled with water up., was killed near his house on Rabbit Road in Sanibel on Sept. 11, 2001 I do think. Processed may be a unique identifier stored in a County Park to pick some lily pads when an 11-foot attacked. Alligators is likely in the 1930s going kayaking, however, you should know what to do up! Wild Florida through the eyes of a weeki wachee river alligator attack large alligator which was sunning himself on top of some grass the... It will want to do when you kayak through alligator-infested waters, should... Northern and central regions are less likely to have more of these toothy beasts than any other.. Know what to do when you Encounter one tranquil ride down the river, the city not! App for iPhone, iPad kayaking, snorkeling, and you could for... River may be challenging since the water current faster 2 p.m. if you bring your own Roadside Adventure Try Sights...