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A manmade freshwater slough, this unique
ecosystem is a hub of activity along the main road leading to the Flamingo
point campground. It was created as the final stage for a sewage treatment
plant in the area, but with careful management has become a thriving
ecological community. The term slough refers to the fact that
there is standing water year-round. The diversity contained within the
small area is astounding. Migratory and resident birds can be seen coming
and going, stopping to fish in the food rich water. Eco pond is a "must
stop" for any bird watcher visiting the Flamingo point area.
Alligators
patrol the pond, gliding through the open water towards potential prey
standing among the vegetation. They
also can be seen sitting motionless, eyes and nostrils just above the
surface, waiting for an unwitting prey to venture within reach.
The major plant species include cattail
and primrose
willow along the edge of the water. The south and west side of the
pond is fairly clear of congestive cattail and willow growth and in
the resulting open water one can see many more fish species, alligators
patrolling, and birds swimming. Some of the more open water areas of
the pond have surface vegetation among which one may see many coots
and moorhens
feeding.
The east side and north side of the pond is characterized by thick growth
of both cattail and primrose willow. These plant species provide shelter,
protection, and food for many bird species. The submerged portions of
the plants provide shelter, protection and food for many fish species.
One may observe american
coots, moorehens,
blue
winged teals, green
herons, purple
gallinules, and many others
in and around these shrubs and throughout the pond.
In the middle and to one side of the pond there is a central hammock.
A few different tree species grow in this hammock, with the predominate
species appearing to be the buttonwood. White
ibis roost in the tops of the buttonwoods. Interestingly, ibis create
a very loud almost jet-like sound when flying, and their
approach to the pond may at first seem quite startling.
The stands of trees sorrounding the pond include a number of various
species. The most common wild
flowers observed along the waters edge include the common
beggar tick and moon
flower. Other animals sharing the eco pond habitat include rabbits,
turtles, snakes,
butterflies, bobcats, and lizards.
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