West Side of The Okefenokee Swamp

Today I drove down from Waycross, Georgia, to the western edge of the Okefenokee Swamp near the Stephen Foster State Park. I went into the national wildlife refuge first and walked over the dam and along a channel. There was a path to walk on. I could have walked down the hill and along the shore of the channel but I thought it would be safer up her at the top. Turns out I was right. Look at the size of this alligator! Two guys were fishing nearby and said it was a small one. I think it was at least 5 feet long. One of the two guys caught a black bass while I watched. I think that fish was at least four pounds.

As I hiked the long hike back to my car I spotted this unusual hunk of Spanish Moss that was caught at two ends by two branches. I thought it forms a nice swing or even a hammock for a wood sprite.

I drove to the state park to eat my lunch. After that I walked by the boat launch. I looked down into the water and spotted not one not two, not three, not four, but five little gators among the lily pads.

Then I spotted this big alligator in the mowed area next to the canoes and kayaks. Since it was 3 p.m. it was getting too late to rent a kayak anyway. I didn't want to bother this one.

I came upon this cute turtle in the water with the alligators. I am unsure what species of turtle it is.