Blue Spring State Park

 Finding new adventures means venturing away from Daytona.  Today's top choice, Blue Spring State Park in Orange City.  As we were pulling into the parking lot, several school buses were departing.  Good timing on our part!

                                    These black vultures with the moss hanging from the trees at the edge of the river were creepy.  There were dozens walking, bathing and sitting in the trees.  They seemed unafraid of humans (Paul was unable to catch one!).  We didn't dawdle - having birds above me is too risky!

                                                        Florida Gar Fish 
  

                                    The walkway along the spring was well done (the part completed after hurricane damage).  There were multiple "balconies" over the water for viewing the wildlife.  There were dozens of picnic tables, clean bathrooms, a playground and a historic home.  A definite destination I would repeat!

                                            We saw many species of fish and birds but 

                                                    unfortunately no manatees or turtles.

                                                        Double-crested cormorant

The St Johns River is unique since it flows north from Vero Beach to Jacksonville.  We have spent weeks on the Jacksonville end of the river at a marina.  It was pretty cool seeing the more southern and shallower part.

This morning we opted for another bike ride to the bank.  This time we meandered through the historic district near South Beach Street.  There was plenty of sidewalk for us and the homes were way more interesting.

I am getting a little better taking pictures with my phone while still moving forward and only one hand on the handlebars.  

The plan - head to the boat tomorrow.