Deep Lake (Florida) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Deep Lake |
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 Deep Lake
Location in Florida
Deep Lake
Location in the United States
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| Location | Big Cypress National Preserve, Collier County, Florida, US |
| Coordinates | 26°03′02″N 81°20′33″W / 26.05056°N 81.34250°W |
| Basin countries | United States |
Deep Lake is a special natural lake found in Big Cypress National Preserve in Florida. It's not just any lake; it's a huge hole in the ground filled with water, known as a sinkhole. This amazing lake is about 90 feet deep. That makes it the deepest lake south of Lake Okeechobee. It's also one of the deepest lakes in the entire state of Florida!
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What is a Sinkhole Lake?
How Sinkholes Form
A sinkhole is like a giant natural bowl or hole in the ground. They form when the rock underneath the surface, often limestone, dissolves. Rainwater mixes with carbon dioxide in the air. This creates a weak acid. This acid slowly eats away at the soft rock underground.
Over time, this dissolving rock creates empty spaces or caves. The ground above these spaces can then collapse. When this happens, a sinkhole forms. If the sinkhole fills with water, it becomes a sinkhole lake. Deep Lake is a perfect example of this natural process.
Deep Lake's Unique Depth
Deep Lake is very deep for a lake in Florida. Its depth of 90 feet is quite impressive. This makes it a unique spot in the region. Most lakes in Florida are quite shallow. Deep Lake's depth helps it stay cooler. It also provides a different habitat for animals.
Exploring Deep Lake and Its Home
Big Cypress National Preserve
Deep Lake is located inside the Big Cypress National Preserve. This preserve is a huge area of wetlands in Florida. It's a very important place for nature. The preserve protects a large part of the Everglades ecosystem. It's home to many different plants and animals.
The preserve has swamps, forests, and prairies. It's a wild and beautiful place. Visitors can explore the preserve. They can see alligators, panthers, and many birds. Deep Lake is just one of the natural wonders found there.
Wildlife Around Deep Lake
Even though Deep Lake is a sinkhole, it's full of life. The water provides a home for fish. These fish then become food for other animals. Birds often visit the lake to hunt. You might see wading birds like herons or egrets.
Mammals also live in the preserve. Animals like deer and raccoons might come to the lake to drink. The entire area around Deep Lake is part of a rich ecosystem. It shows how nature adapts to different environments.
