Okaloacoochee Slough Wildlife Management Area
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| Okaloacoochee Slough Wildlife Management Area | |
|---|---|
  | |
| Location | Hendry County, Florida |
| Nearest city | Fort Myers |
| Coordinates | 26°34′54″N 81°18′5″W / 26.58167°N 81.30139°W |
| Area | 8521 Acres |
| Governing body | Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission |
Okaloacoochee Slough Wildlife Management Area (WMA) protects 2,992 acres of the larger Okaloacoochee Slough ecosystem approximately 30 miles east of Fort Myers in Hendry County, Florida.[1]
Fauna
[edit]The wetlands within Okaloacoochee Slough WMA provide habitat for birds such as wood stork, glossy ibis, Florida sandhill crane, egrets, and herons.[2] Eastern indigo snakes, bobcats, and various warblers dwell within the pine uplands here. The crested caracara and swallow-tailed kite can often be seen flying over wet prairies.[1] The property is classified as a dispersal zone for the endangered Florida panther.[3]
Recreational Activities
[edit]Sizable populations of white-tailed deer, feral hog, wild turkey, and small game attract hunters to Okaloacoochee Slough WMA.[4] Wildlife viewing on this Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail site is popular year-round, with many specialty birds found on the property.[4] Over 40 miles of unpaved roads are used by hikers, horseback riders, and bicyclists. Camping is permitted at two primitive campsites.[5]
References
[edit]- ^ a b "Okaloacoochee Slough Wildlife Management Area". myfwc.com. Retrieved 2016-12-07.
- ^ "Okaloacoochee Slough more than just OK | February 16, 2012 | Florida Weekly". Retrieved 2016-12-12.
- ^ "Florida Panther Focus Area" (PDF).
- ^ a b "Okaloacoochee Slough Wildlife Management Area". myfwc.com. Retrieved 2016-12-12.
- ^ "Okaloacoochee Slough Wildlife Management Area". myfwc.com. Retrieved 2016-12-07.