Fort White Wildlife and Environmental Area

Fort White Wildlife and Environmental Area (WEA) protects 1,610 acres of primarily sandhill habitat four miles west of Fort White in Gilchrist County, Florida.[1]

Fauna

29°54′31″N 82°46′54″W / 29.90861°N 82.78167°W / 29.90861; -82.78167Area1,610 AcresGoverning bodyFlorida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

The imperiled Sherman's fox squirrel, gopher tortoise, Florida mouse, and gopher frog all live in the open sandhills of Fort White WEA.[2] In addition, river otters, beavers, and even manatees may be seen in the adjacent Santa Fe River that flows along the eastern boundary.[3] Birds are represented by numerous migratory and resident species including swallow-tailed kite, barred owl, and Bachman's sparrow.

Recreational activities

Gray squirrel, wild turkey, and white-tailed deer hunting take place here during their respective seasons and bass fishing is popular along the Santa Fe River.[4][5] Loop trails, both along the river and through the sandhills, permit access to much of the area. Paddlers can access the large bald cypress trees and wildlife-viewing opportunities on the Santa Fe River from a boat ramp located near the parking area on NE 2nd Way.[6]

References

  1. ^ "Fort White Wildlife and Environmental Area". myfwc.com. Retrieved 2016-12-28.
  2. ^ "Fort White - Wildlife". myfwc.com. Retrieved 2016-12-28.
  3. ^ "Wildlife Watching | Gilchrist County Chamber". www.gilchristcounty.com. Retrieved 2017-01-05.
  4. ^ "Florida's Wildlife Management Area Regulations". myfwc.com. Retrieved 2016-12-28.
  5. ^ "Suwannee and Santa Fe Rivers". myfwc.com. Retrieved 2016-12-28.
  6. ^ "Fort White - Visitor Information". myfwc.com. Retrieved 2016-12-28.