Myakka River State Park

After I was finally convinced to leave the armadillo, we continued our hike, skirting the edge of Lower Myakka Lake. As we drew closer to our destination of Deep Hole, we began hearing the sound of birds. Lots of birds. We climbed a small sandy berm, clambered through a hedge, and...

I have never seen such a sight! It was like walking into an episode of PBS Nature. Literally thousands of white pelicans, hundreds of alligators, and dozens of vultures (we'll get to them later).

Alligators lined the banks of Deep Hole, basking in the sun. This mysterious hole is estimated to be over 120 feet deep, although no one really knows for sure. Needless to say, this isn't a popular spot for investigative scuba diving.

I was simultaneously fascinated and freaked out, and stayed near the trailhead, taking photos from a respectable distance of 30-40 feet. The gators paid us no mind, but you don't want to take any chances with these huge reptiles. As you might imagine, some people are stupid and attempt to feed or provoke them. This is strictly against park rules, not just for the safety of the stupid people, but for the safety of the gators as well. An alligator that loses its fear of humans and begins to associate people with food will usually have to be destroyed.

If you're interested, check out Myakka River Paddle on google maps, the satellite view. You'll see Lower Myakka Lake on one the top part of the kayak route - begin zooming in. Keep zooming until Deep Hole appears. Zoom closer...closer. Even in the satellite view you can see alligators lining the mysterious hole - creepy!