(Click to enlarge images, click again to zoom.)

We consumed the open sky and nearly infinite tan and green-flecked prairie as if it were an addicting and healing tonic. Which it was. We lingered at our breakfast as the serenade of Meadowlarks and Yellowthroats continued unabated.

Sigh. Time to move along.

A splash of bright purple flashed into view and a large white bird materialized among the greenery. Water. Pickerelweed and a Great Egret signalled the beginning of habitat transition from dry to wet prairie. Two large alligators sunning among blooming water hyacinths underscored the change. The Three Lakes Wildlife Management Area* actually borders (you guessed it) – three lakes: Jackson, Kissimmee and Marian.

Analysis of middens and mounds indicates humans have inhabited the shores of these lakes for hundreds of years. In the 19th century, pioneers settled into the area due to the abundance of fish and game. The nearby grass prairie was ideal for raising the wild “Florida” cattle left by Spanish explorers. One thing those cowboys learned was the importance of periodic burning of the prairie to prevent the growth of pine trees and scrub palmetto.

Speaking of fire management. The header image was taken as we moved from dry to a wet environment. The pattern of smoke suggests this was likely due to prescribed burns which occur on a regular schedule. That pine tree contains a Bald Eagle nest and an adult eagle flew from the tree as we approached. There has been a nest in that tree for as long as we can remember – a lot of years!

A short drive through scrub oak habitat and we reached the shore of Lake Jackson. Water birds. We meandered around to Lake Kissimmee and enjoyed the diversity provided by both lakes’ environments.

Too soon, it was time to head home. We will return.

Lovely from a distance, a closer view of Pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata) almost resembles a collection of orchids.

Abundant and beautiful. Southern Beeblossom (Oenothera simulans) seemed to be everywhere.

This Great Egret was too busy hunting to be bothered by our intrusion.

I don’t think this Common Buckeye (Junonia coenia) cared if it was prairie or marsh. As long as something with nectar was available.

Tiptoeing through the hyacinths. Immature White Ibises are brown during their first year.

Near the water, we found plenty of dragons. This Four-spotted Pennant (Brachymesia gravida) clung to the fencing along a pier.

Lake = Osprey buffet.

Thought to be endemic to Florida until the 1940’s, Florida Betony (Stachys floridana), a member of the mint family, has spread to several other states. It is prolific and often considered a nuisance weed. Also known as Rattlesnakeweed, due to the shape of its tubers, the plant produces really lovely flowers.

Sandhill Cranes breed in Florida and we are now beginning to see family groups on almost every outing.

This is the largest raccoon we’ve seen in a long time. She didn’t take kindly to the interruption in her hunting.

The shallows of the lake suited the Black-necked Stilts just fine. It’s important to look around once in awhile in case there is danger from above. (Helps to have a neck that can turn that far, too!)

As we relaxed on a pier jutting into the lake, a large bee continuously patrolled above our heads. I think it’s an Eastern Carpenter Bee (Xylocopa virginica).

Another Great Egret. This one found this post made a fine place to look into the water without getting its feet wet.

Several years ago, a canal was constructed which connects Lakes Jackson and Kissimmee. A dam provides flood control if needed. A helpful Great Blue Heron reminds us it’s not a good idea to swim here.

The Crested Caracara breeds in our area and finds the shorelines of lakes a great place to raise a family.

Limpkins love mollusks. This one is enjoying a freshwater mussel. The Limpkin is the only member of its taxonomic family (Aramidae). Unique birds which we enjoy observing.

Dry prairie. Wet prairie. Scrub woods. Marsh. Lake. It was a great day. Life is good.

Enjoy your search for a natural place and come back for a visit!

*More Information

Three Lakes Wildlife Management Area Prairie Lakes Unit