West Creek Pineland Natural Area

This 7.43-acre protected natural area is representative of the pine flatwoods plant communities once common in this region prior to urban development. The bisecting C-5 canal provides a freshwater component to the landscape and brings additional wildlife to the pineland community. Resident and migratory birds such as the great horned owl, pileated and red-bellied woodpeckers, belted kingfisher, great egret, great blue heron, anhinga, several species of hawk, osprey, mottled ducks, and various wood warblers can be seen at West Creek. Among the freshwater fish documented in the canal are alligator gar and largemouth bass. Nearly 15 species of butterflies have been recorded throughout the site and are commonly seen from the greenway.
West Creek is accessible to pedestrians only, with parking available at nearby Helene Klein Pineland Preserve. A six-foot-wide paved trail - part of the Coconut Creek multiuse greenway trail system - runs through the southern end of West Creek and features a 100-foot-long pedestrian bridge that crosses the C-5 canal. Interpretive signs, benches, and a large, shaded gazebo are provided for leisurely wildlife observation and resting along the greenway.

Amenities