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Ben Goldfarb |
Little Big Econlockhatchee WMA lies in southeastern Seminole
County. This nearly 6,000-acre area protects seven miles of the
Little Big Econ River and associated floodplain forests. This
wildlife management area is part of a wildlife corridor of
approximately 100 miles along the St. Johns River. River
floodplain forests and oak hammocks are home to
gray fox,
river
otter,
wild
turkey,
bobcat, resident and migratory waterfowl,
wood storks, wading birds, shorebirds, and numerous upland
species including
white-tailed deer and
turkey. Other common sightings include
sandhill cranes,
roseate spoonbills,
bald eagles,
osprey, and hawks. The area is part of the
Great
Florida Birding Trail. Paddling along the Econ is a favorite
pastime with many visitors, and improved canoe launch areas have
been established along the river. Primitive camping is available
for canoeists. There are three trailhead parking areas for
hiking, horseback riding, and mountain bike riding. Other
activities available on the area include hunting (Kilbee Unit
only), fishing, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. |