Manatee Magic

The Magic of Blue Springs

By Gretchen Losi

Nestled along the St. John’s river you’ll discover Blue Springs State Park, an eco-tourists dream come true. Year round, Blue Springs crystal waters are straight from an enchanting fairy tale - and so are its inhabitants. But the park takes on some very special guests from fall to spring. This is when the waters bubble with delight once again as the park welcomes home their coveted guests - the manatees. Usually spotted alone, in pairs or with a small group - they shouldn’t be missed. The giant gray slow-paced giant can typically be seen just under the water’s surface. In the springs they are clearly seen and enjoyed and respected by hikers, kayakers and boaters. In the river it becomes a bit murkier - so look for the bubbles.

Yes- bubbles!

Apparently mammoth babies eat mammoth amounts of vegetation, leaving them terribly gassy at all times creating mini jacuzzis bubbling throughout the river. That’s your sign to watch your boat motor or kayak paddle and approach with care. Blue Springs is a true healing oasis for these gentle giants. The park takes great pride in all they have done and continue to do for their majestic on-site royalty. Thanks to their efforts the manatees’ numbers have exploded. Two years before the park was officially enstated, the area had 14 manatees. Today the number is close to 500. As a result, you’ll likely spot a few that look tethered. They’re not. It’s a safe and efficient GPS tracker that newly released manatees wear so staff can monitor their journey, eventually back safely into the wild. This is just one more part of the park’s efforts to maintain their safety. The magical manatee isn’t the only captivating creature in this mystical slice of heaven on earth. The water is full of spotted gar, tarpon, frogs, snakes and a bountiful array of other aquatic critters including the all mighty alligator. Look up and you’ll spot another special feast for the eyes - this one feathered. The park is bursting with several varieties of wading birds including herons and ospreys but look a bit higher and you’re just as likely to spot a majestic eagle. The park has a 4.5 mile Pine Island trail that is perfect for taking in the beauty found in the river and in the trees. But you’ll still want to take a boat tour if possible. Here you can easily and safely spot several alligators while getting a crash course on local wildlife and native plants from the boat captain.

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Perfecting the art of relaxing, three visitors converse on a park bench at Blue Springs State Park. (Courtesy)

The St Johns River in Blue Springs State Park is the longest river flowing through Florida. (Eryn Reddell Wingert)

Kayakers encounter a pair of meandering manatees in the St Johns River. (Gretchen Losi)