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Focus:
The Everglades
Consider the million and a half acres that make up Everglades National Park: It’s the largest continuous stand of sawgrass prairie in North America, the largest mangrove ecosystem in the western hemisphere, and the most significant breeding grounds for tropical wading birds in North America. It’s home to 14 endangered and nine threatened species. It’s an International Biosphere Reserve and a World Heritage Site.
The Everglades looks like an endless expanse of tall grass, the low green landscape broken by the occasional hardwood hammock. The best way to observe its subtle and complex ecosystems, so bound by the cycles of drought, flood and fire, is from its many boardwalks and nature trails. You’ll see wading birds, turkey vultures and alligators, and you may spot such endangered species as the wood stork, American crocodile and Atlantic leatherback turtle. There are more than 1,000 species of seed-bearing plants and a wealth of epiphytic plants including bromeliads and orchids. Ranger-led tours and the visitors centers at both of the park’s entrances in this region will help you navigate this unique wilderness.
Be aware that this park is facing serious dangers. The ongoing pressures of urbanization, industry and agriculture in land surrounding the park have taken a tremendous toll. One of the world’s largest ecosystem restoration projects is underway in an effort to bring back the land and water conditions that once existed. |
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