One of the highlights of the fall season for Floridians is the fact that manatees from all over find solace in our warm climates and warm waters. Florida’s gentle giants tend to infiltrate our springs in the best possible way beginning in the fall, which means that if there was ever a time in which you wanted to grab an up close and personal look, this would be it. Take a peek at the Florida wildlife park that transforms into a manatee wonderland each autumn.

The Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is a wonderful way to see a side of Florida that many never get to see.

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This wildlife park is known as a rehabilation center for injured animals, with a wide variety of birds and reptiles, and of course, Lu the oldest hippopotamus in North America.

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The history behind Homosassa Springs dates back to the early 1900s, when the area was a popular train stop for those looking to hop off and take a dip in the springs.

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This area has been an epicenter for different species for years, with over thirty different fresh and saltwater species being identified nearby.

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But one frequent friend to Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is the sea cow, who finds the warm waters the perfect place to call home each autumn.

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One of Florida’s most beloved mammals—the West Indian Manatee—is susceptible to injury out in the waters of the state, which can be quite dangerous.

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There are a few non-releasable captive manatees that live inside the wildlife park who have had injuries or illnesses so severe that now they call the park their permanent home.

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However, the springs itself has always been a draw for manatees from all over, who choose this beautiful spot in Florida as their home during the colder months.

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Take a boat tour from the park and get out into the wild, seeing various wildlife in their natural habitats.

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Or enjoy the Wildlife Walk through the park and get a front row seat to the Fish Bowl underwater observatory.

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From November 15 through March 31 check out the in-ground manatee pool at the Manatee Care Center for a more personalized experience.

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See for yourself what makes this rehabilitation facility and wildlife park so spectacular to visit.

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Ready to plan your visit to Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park? The address for the park is 4150 S Suncoast Blvd., Homosassa Springs, FL 34446-1168. The hours are from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with ticket counters closing at 4:45 p.m. To find out more information about this beautiful Florida park, visit the website.

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