Blue Hole (Big Pine Key) facts for kids
The Blue Hole is a cool spot to visit on Big Pine Key, an island in the sunny Florida Keys. It's actually an old rock quarry, which is a big pit dug into the ground to get out rocks. This quarry was once used to gather rocks for building nearby roads and for Henry Flagler's famous Overseas Railroad. Today, the Blue Hole is filled with mostly fresh water, making it a special place for many animals.
What is the Blue Hole?
The Blue Hole is a unique freshwater lake in the Florida Keys. It's not a natural lake but was created by people digging for rocks. Over time, it filled with water and became a home for wildlife. It's now a popular spot for visitors to see animals and enjoy nature.
A Home for Amazing Wildlife
The fresh water in the Blue Hole is super important for the animals living on Big Pine Key. You can often see many different creatures here.
- Birds: Lots of different birds come to drink and find food.
- Snakes: Some types of snakes live around the water.
- Alligators: Yes, alligators! They are often seen swimming in the Blue Hole.
- Key deer: These are small, endangered deer found only in the Florida Keys. The Blue Hole is a vital water source for them.
- Green iguanas: You might spot these large lizards hanging out on the rocks or in trees.
The Blue Hole is also part of the National Key Deer Refuge. This refuge is a special protected area set up to help save the Key deer and other wildlife in the Florida Keys. It's a safe place where these animals can live and thrive.
A Bit of History
The Blue Hole wasn't always a wildlife haven. It started as a quarry where workers dug out limestone rock. This rock was used for important projects, like building roads on the islands. It also helped construct the incredible Overseas Railroad, which connected the Florida Keys to the mainland many years ago. After the quarry was no longer needed, it filled with water and became the Blue Hole we see today.
Gallery
-
Park sign, along with one of the many green iguanas that have invaded the area
