F LO R IDA T H E F LO RA A N D FAU N A A key habitat for migratory birds, the Everglades are also a nursery for nearly 300 species of fish, as well as wading birds. Here, too, are 50 distinct kinds of reptiles, including the American alligator, American crocodile, endangered green turtle, Atlantic leatherback, Atlantic hawksbill, Atlantic ridley and venomous eastern indigo snake. Set at the confluence of temperate North America and the tropical Caribbean, the park is rich with flora from both, including endemic and legally protected species. Among its ever-evolving collection of plants are 164 identified plant species, 47 of which are threatened, 113 of which are endangered and four of which have been identified as commercially exploited. From grasses and sedges to moisture-loving orchids, ferns, trees, GETTY
shrubs and a year-round proliferation of wildflowers, Everglades National
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Everglades National Park
Park is filled with intrigue.
The nation’s largest subtropical wilderness, Everglades National Park is as beautiful as it is foreboding. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve, it’s also designated as a Wetland of International Importance and is protected under the Cartagena Treaty. An integral habitat for several rare and endangered species, its swamps, tropical forests and waterways are home to manatees, American crocodiles and elusive Florida panthers, too. Historically speaking, the Everglades served as hunting grounds for many over time, including Native Americans and, later, Anglo-American settlers (or “Gladesmen”), who relied on its abundant natural resources. Dubbed the River of Grass on account of Marjory Douglas’s novel, “The Everglades: River of Grass,” it has been described as such ever since.
freshwater wildlife.
UNITED VAN LINES NATIONAL PARKS GUIDE
SOUTHEAST
The dry season — and more pleasant weather — occurs in winter, making it the best time to view wildlife in the park. Because standing water levels are low, wildlife congregate at central water locations. Shark Valley, the Anhinga Trail (at Royal Palm) and Eco Pond are ideal for observing alligators, wading birds and other
T H E H IK E S , D RIV E S A N D V IE W P O IN TS ANHINGA TRAIL If you walk one trail, make it the .8mile Anhinga Trail, a paved walkway and boardwalk that starts at the Royal Palm Visitor Center and offers frequent sightings of alligators, anhingas, turtles, herons and egrets, to name a few.
