by Angie Pollock

Created on: February 19, 2009   Last Updated: June 11, 2009

Lake Okeechobee spans over 700 square miles making it the second largest freshwater lake in the contiguous United States. Anglers from around the world cast their lines into this magnificent lake in hopes of catching a trophy large-mouth bass. The ecosystem that this large mass of water supports goes beyond the bass and it only takes one glimpse to see the variety of wildlife prowling about this large lake.

Most prevalent are the different species of birds. Herons, cranes, egrets, and many waterfowl can be seen slowly moving along the water's edge in search of a meal. Duck hunting is a popular sport around the lake during the fall months. However, many birds that call Lake Okeechobee home are protected under federal and state laws. The lake is known to have over 75 different bird species to feed and nest around the lake which includes the wood stork, different species of herons, and even the bald eagle.

One of the first species to be placed on the Endangered Species Act, the Everglade Snail Kite, depends upon the lake for nesting. A spectacular bird seen around the lake and in neighboring pastures is the Caracara. These unique birds forage for fish, snakes, and small mammals around the lake but will also search for dead animals (carrion) to make an easy meal.

One cannot visit Lake Okeechobee without seeing the large population of American alligators. Once hunted to almost extinction, the alligators have made a tremendous come back. A hike along the "Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail" (LOST) which is located along the Herbert Hoover dike will give wildlife enthusiast a walk to remember. Most hikers along the dike will see the alligators along with many other Florida wildlife species.

Along the water, many have seen white-tail deer taking a drink or the wild hog digging up some dinner. There are several spots along the trail that are elevated to get a better glimpse of the lake and what it has to offer. Manatees have been spotted in certain parts of the lake and osprey are typically always flying above.

A wildlife survey conducted during the late 90s revealed many species that frequent Lake Okeechobee. Although the group was not at the lake to study the mammals in particular, they did make note of the mammal sightings which included the manatee, river otter, and bobcats. The manatees are usually found in the Okeechobee Waterway, a channel that runs along the perimeter of the lake.

At one time, the Florida black bear roamed throughout the state of Florida. Due to their loss of habitat and over-killing by humans, the black bear's range and populations have drastically decreased. The black bear can still be found (although it is rare) in Highlands and Glades counties just northwest of Lake Okeechobee. The Florida black bear has been protected by Florida law since 1993 with approximately 1,500 bears left roaming the state.

The more common wildlife to be seen around the lake include the abundance of snakes, both venomous and non-venomous, and their prey, the field rats. Raccoons, opossums, and a variety of turtles including the soft-shell turtle are all familiar wildlife that rely on the lake for survival. Whether visiting Lake Okeechobee for the fishing or just to take in the scenery, remember to bring a camera as there is always some type of wildlife lurking around this magnificent body of water.

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