During the temporary closure of the Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park due to COVID-19, park staff have been able to complete important projects.

Over the past week, staff completely refinished the floor of the covered tour boat dock. The covered tour boat dock is one of the most heavily-trafficked areas in the park. 

Additionally, staff were able to thoroughly clean many animal habitation areas and restore the roofs of multiple pavilions throughout the park.

Most importantly, all of the work was able to be done while in compliance with CDC recommendations for social distancing to protect our staff.

Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park Projects completed during COVID-19 shutdown

Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs State Park is home to a wide variety of captive animals such as alligators, black bears, red wolf, key deer, flamingoes, whooping cranes, and the oldest hippopotamus in captivity.

Throughout the duration of the closure, park staff has worked diligently to continue to provide them the best possible care. 

The safety and welfare of the wildlife, our employees, and the public we serve are of top priority to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.  The DEP appreciates everyone’s understanding during these closures and looks forward to welcoming the public back to our State Parks as soon as possible.

Enjoy the Manatee Cam Anytime

We encourage you to take a look at our underwater camera live streams of the manatees. These are active on https://www.floridastateparks.org/learn/webcam-watch-manatees-swim. Manatee feedings are shown daily at 7:30a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and at 3:30 p.m. from April 1 through November 15.