Located in Marion County, Florida, Silver Springs is a must-visit if you are a nature lover. For good reason, Silver Springs is often called a nature lover’s paradise. This haven of natural beauty offers a vast variety of wildlife on land and in the water. Silver Springs houses several artesian springs that connect to Silver River.
One of the best ways to explore Silver Springs is through boat tours. A clear kayak in Silver Springs will give a nature lover the best possible seat to witness the brilliant sights of the region. These boat tours are guided by experienced tour guides who enrich the experience with tidbits and stories about Silver Springs’ history.
With its vast array of wildlife, here’s why Silver Springs is a nature lover’s paradise:
Unique Wildlife Encounters In The Water
Ever heard of manatees? If you take a trip to Silver Springs and sign up for a clear kayak in Silver Springs, you might see one or more of these manatees up close! Manatees are gentle and curious creatures, so don’t be afraid to interact with them. You must consult your tour guide before interacting with any wildlife. Manatees make for great marine friends, as they are naturally peaceful and non-territorial. They often swim up to humans for a belly rub.
If you miss the manatees, do not worry; you can also spot turtles and river otters! Some boat tours in Silver Springs offer the chance to snorkel with these marine animals. You may be advised to admire them from afar, as otters can be temperamental creatures. They are often found constructing their little dens by the banks of the water bodies. The turtles come in varying shapes, sizes, and colors. An experienced tour guide can explain the differences and what makes these creatures unique.
Canoe boat tours are especially good for photographers due to their stability. Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, on the other hand, can be a bit rocky.
Fascinating Land Wildlife And Birdwatching
Apart from the friendly marine animals, Silver Springs offers an array of wildlife on land (or in the trees, to be more specific). The rhesus monkeys are often seen swinging on the branches of nearby trees. These can be spotted during boat tours or hiking tours. It is generally good to avoid these wild monkeys, as they can be unruly if provoked. However, you can admire them from afar and even get some history from your tour guide.
These same trees are also home to unique bird species, like the Barred Owl or the Red-tailed Hawk. The Limpkin, also known as the Limpkin crane, is the most easily spotted in the area. Due to an increase in the population of their staple diet—apple snails—the Limpkin cranes have frequently begun flocking to the area.
The Thrill Of Spotting An American Alligator
There is a chance that you might encounter an American alligator. Gators are incredibly common in Florida. In the case that you discover one in Silver Springs, it is crucial that you stay calm and watch them from afar. Gators are feisty but make for brilliant muses for a wildlife photographer.
Conclusion: A True Nature Lover’s Paradise
Silver Springs’ clear waters, wildlife, and breathtaking landscape make it one of the best places for a nature lover. It is truly a paradise on earth.