Wakodahatchee Wetlands

Located just West of Delay Ray Beach, are the Wakodahatchee Wetlands, an area of about 50 acres, recovered from waste water treatment area, but don’t let that deter you. This is a naturalized habitat for birds, reptiles and fish of all kinds. The best part is that you can easily stroll through this wetland and the fauna as the path leads you through the area.

On a sunny and warm morning in the heart of the Florida wetlands, the air was filled with the symphony of chirping birds and the gentle rustle of leaves. The wetlands, a tapestry of vibrant greens and shimmering blues, were awakening to the day’s promise.

Iggy, a lively and adventurous Iguana, decided it was the perfect day to bask in the sun. With her iridescent scales glistening, she sought the tallest tree, eager to climb and perch herself on a high branch. The sun’s rays would provide her with warmth, a delightful respite from the cool shadows below. As she began her ascent, her mind wandered, and she took in the beauty of her surroundings.

Little did Iggy know that her arch-rival, Allie Gator, was stealthily lurking nearby. Allie, a formidable predator with steely grey eyes, had been watching Iggy from the murky waters. Allie was known for her keen hunting skills and patience, which had earned her respect and fear among the wetland inhabitants.

Iggy, lost in her thoughts and the pleasure of the climb, became a bit too careless. Her grip on the rough bark loosened, and with a sudden misstep, she lost her balance. In a swift, heart-stopping moment, she plummeted from the tree, hitting branches on her way down before splashing into the water below with a resounding plop.

The tranquil water, disturbed by Iggy’s fall, sent ripples outward, creating a momentary chaos. Allie, who had been anticipating such an opportunity, was anything but sleepy. Her powerful tail propelled her forward, cutting through the water with astonishing speed. Within seconds, she was upon the disoriented and surprised Iggy.

“Let’s go for a ride,” Allie growled with a grin, her voice a blend of menace and mockery. Before Iggy could react, she found herself ensnared in Allie’s jaws. The world became a blur as Allie swam through the water, her grip firm yet almost gentle, ensuring Iggy could not escape. The ride was a tumultuous journey through the wetlands, with Allie showcasing her dominance and strength. Iggy struggled, trying to free herself, but Allie’s jaws were inescapable. The ride, though terrifying, was a testament to the survival instincts and the relentless pursuit of the wild.

Wakodahatchee Wetlands

The wetlands are located at 13720 Jog Road and I must warn you that parking is limited – which is actually a good thing since it limits the number of visitors and crowding on site. If you are arriving any time after 11:00 am, you can expect a 1/2 hour wait for parking. This is a very popular location so this wait can be expected on weekdays or weekends. If you find yourself in this situation just know that the wait is definitely worth it. Admission and parking are free and there are bathroom facilities on site. The walk itself is entirely on boardwalk and is not longer than 2k (about 1.3 miles).

Once you enter the wetlands you are welcomed by throngs of Storks, Herons and Egrets nesting in the various trees. Just try to pause for 15-30 minutes to catch the action, the birds are very active (especially early in the morning, or late in the evening), as they gather sticks for their nests, hunt for food or preen their feathers. The path is very easy to walk along, this is not a hike in any stretch of the imagination, flat, well maintained and lots of entertainment along the way (wheel chairs and strollers are definitely not an issue). There are many species of birds including Great Egrets, Blue Herons, Cormorants, Black Birds, Blue Birds, Iguanas, Crocodiles and countless other animals. In the early morning I have seen Crocodiles and countless huge turtles. Here is a sampling of the images I have captured. For more information click here.

2023 Photos

2024 Images