We took a wildlife vacation to parts of Florida in the summer of '05.  First, we visited Crystal River and Homosassa Springs, where a hippo, gators, and flamingos are among the residents in a nature preserve.  (They have a few manatees too.)



We came here to swim with the manatees: friendly "sea cows" that like the warm waters, and enjoy having their armpits scratched.  Bird's Underwater took us on a guided tour.



Jane got a close-up look at one of them.

Jane and Bob enjoyed a sunset stroll, along an old pier near Crystal River.




Next, a visit to Big Cat Rescue, north of Tampa.  This organization houses retired circus animals, unwanted "pets," and some cats rescued from fur farms.  Our behind-the scenes tour got fairly close to the cats (but no touching). 





Awww... he arches his back just like our cats at home.  Maybe he'd like a belly rub.



Our guide Sharon explained how to feed snacks to the panther and tigers.  They respond to "up" and "down" commands.  (The "eat" command wasn't necessary.)

Our tour group included the Bowers family from Great Britain.  We worked together to make more snacks.  Recipe:  Take one empty paper-towel roll.  Insert one dead rooster chick.  Fold over the ends.  Sprinkle with spices and flavorings.  Toss into cage (carefully).  They love it -- a cat toy with a flavored filling.

The tour was great, but we did get some rain.



At the end of the day, Kim contemplates a tiger crossing.  And "silent Jack," who followed us around most of the day, opened his mouth but nothing came out.  How could he compete with a lion's roar?