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Manatee Springs State Park

Our next stop on our travels was Manatee Springs State Park, FL.  The first day we arrived, we walked around to get a feel for the state park.  After a nice walk down a path to the springs, and a light lunch there, we walked the boardwalk along the spring’s creek to the river.

Duck on Buoy

On the river, sitting on a buoy, was a duck just enjoying the sun and soaking up the rays as he thought about his next swim.  At the mouth of the creek, there was a mama manatee and her baby.  Unfortunately, the glare from the sun prevented us from getting a good view of them – darn!

Spring Water

I was really taken with the colors of the waters in the spring’s creek.  So clear, we could see all the vegetation growing along the bottom.  I also love the reflection of the trees in the water.  It adds to the dimension of the image.

Black and White Warbler

There were many birds around, too.  They were difficult to photograph as they flew around all over, but I did manage to get a photo of this little black and white warbler as he perched on this stump.  It was fun to watch this little guy just sort of climbing and hopping around this stump.

Perched

I don’t know what type of bird this little guy is, but I did love how he perched so perfectly on the top of this tree stump in the water.  I also love the pattern the water and tree reflection creates behind him.

Visiting Deer

And, finally, just as dusk was rolling in, this small herd of deer walked by the back of our campsite.  It was dark, so it was impossible to get a clear shot, but I wanted to include this just because it was part of how close we were to nature in this park.

Enjoy!