Why Circle B Bar Reserve is a Premier Destination for Alligator Viewing
The Circle B Bar Reserve, consisting of 1,267 acres near Lakeland, Florida, is a stunning natural area nestled in Polk County in the heart of Florida. It’s a beautiful oasis teeming with diverse wildlife and a lush, unspoiled wilderness landscape. The reserve’s diverse wetland habitats provide the perfect environment for alligators to thrive, and the result is a truly mesmerizing display of nature’s power and grace. Circle B draws awestruck visitors from near and far, but lucky for me, it’s a short eight-mile drive from my house.
Our Unprecedented 95 Alligator Sighting on Alligator Alley
There are many trails, but this time of year (courtship and mating season), Alligator Alley is the most popular. As we traversed it, we were simply astounded by the sheer number of these prehistoric creatures. We spotted an astounding 95 alligators on this 1.5-mile trail. Most were floating in the waters of Lake Hancock, while a few were nestled into the mud on the other side of the trail. Our previous high count was 36 just a few weeks ago, so this day marked a true testament to the thriving alligator population that calls Circle B Bar Reserve home.
An Astonishing Encounter
At the end of Alligator Alley, where it meets the Heron Hideout trail, a small rest area with benches under the shade of large trees sits snuggled between a shallow inlet on Alligator Alley and a small pond with an outlet into Lake Hancock. As we stopped for a break, we witnessed the activities of two alligators that will stay with us forever. First, we spotted a large gator, maybe six or eight feet long, floating near a downed branch close to the shore. While watching, she lunged out of the water, likely trying to procure a creature we couldn’t see for lunch.
This excitement caused us to notice more movement in the water. To our astonishment, we observed the largest alligator either of us had ever seen emerge from under the water and head toward the one at the shore. I’ve read that a good gauge of a gator’s length is to convert the estimated number of inches between the snout and eyes from inches to feet. If that is accurate, this guy was at least 13 feet long, and his back was as flat and wide as the seat of a chair.
We feared this behemoth might decide to have the ‘smaller’ one for lunch, but after observing their interactions, we determined they were a couple enjoying their private home for the season. At one point, Mr. Big lifted his head and smashed it into the water in an unmistakable part of the mating ritual. She must have been playing hard to get because she didn’t flinch despite the noise and action in the water. We, however, probably jumped a foot. We watched the two of them interact for about an hour and a half in a display of nature at its finest.
Conclusion: An Unforgettable Alligator Experience Awaits at Circle B Bar Reserve
This natural wonder is a must-see for any nature enthusiast, offering a rare glimpse into the fascinating world of these ancient animals, along with all the other birds and wildlife that call the area home. To make the most of your visit, be sure to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the alligators are most active. Follow the expert tips for the best viewing spots, and keep your camera ready to capture the breathtaking moments you’ll experience. This is a spectacle you won’t soon forget, so don’t miss your chance to witness it for yourself at the remarkable Circle B Bar Reserve.
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