Curry Creek Preserve facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Curry Creek Preserve |
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IUCN Category V (Protected Landscape/Seascape)
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 Curry Creek Preserve
Location in Florida
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| Location | Venice, Florida |
| Area | 80.63 acres (0.3263 km2) |
| Established | August 15, 2001 |
| Owner | Sarasota County |
Curry Creek Preserve is a wonderful natural area in Venice, Florida. It covers about 80 acres, which is like 60 football fields! Here, you can walk on trails or launch a paddle boat into the water. The preserve is located at 1075 Albee Farm Road.
Protecting Our Natural World
This special place was named after a family who were early settlers in the area. The preserve was bought in 2002. This purchase happened thanks to a program called the Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program (ESLPP). This program helps buy and protect important natural lands. It makes sure these areas stay wild and safe for plants and animals.
Amazing Habitats
Curry Creek Preserve has different types of natural homes, called habitats. These include:
- Mangrove forests: These are trees that grow in salty water along the coast. Their roots help protect the shoreline.
- Tidal marshes: These are grassy wetlands that are flooded by tides. They are important nurseries for young fish.
- Flatwoods: These are forests with pine trees and a grassy understory.
You can also find a rare tree called the Pond Apple along the creek. It's exciting to see unique plants like this!
Wildlife Residents
Many different animals call Curry Creek Preserve home. When you visit, you might spot some of these creatures:
- Tortoises: These slow-moving reptiles live on land.
- Alligators: Large reptiles that live in the water.
- River otters: Playful mammals that love to swim.
- Eastern indigo snakes: These are long, non-venomous snakes.
- Wading birds: Birds that walk in shallow water to find food. This includes beautiful birds like the roseate spoonbill and the wood stork.
Caring for the Preserve
The Sarasota County Public Works department helps take care of the preserve. They look after a 19-acre area nearby. This area is a special restoration site. It helps bring back the natural tidal marsh and swamp areas. This work makes the preserve even healthier for all its plants and animals.
