An Introduction to the Everglades
The Everglades National Park is a unique wetland ecosystem in southern Florida. Formed over thousands of years from the overflow of heavy rainfall into Lake Okeechobee, the Everglades extend southwest from Lake Okeechobee to the shores of the Florida Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Its 5,000 square miles of slow flowing water support grasslands, thick forests and diverse groups of animal, marine and bird life.
Often referred to as the "River of Grass," the swampyEverglades create endless prairies of sawgrass that rise 3 to 10 feet above the surface of the water. The sawgrass is often so dense that travel is possible only through natural water passages. The lush vegetation of the Everglades also includes mangrove, cypress, palms, pines and hardwood hammocks, or small islands. What many do not know is that the water is actually quite shallow in most places—so much so that you can stand in it! Don’t be alarmed if our guides take a quick dip during your airboat tour.
The Everglades are known for rich bird life, particularly large wading birds, such as the roseate spoonbill, great blue heron and a variety of egrets. Marine life includes alligators, of course, as well as American crocodiles, soft shelled turtles and fish such as red teriera, large mouth bass, redfish, and catfish. Other wildlife in the Everglades National Park includes deer, the endangered Florida panther and over 28 different snakes, more than a few of which are venomous.
Ready to start your Everglades adventure? Give us a call at 800-559-2205 for more info on airboat safaris or purchase tour tickets online now!