Everglades National Park: Difference between revisions
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== Ecosystems and Terrain == | == Ecosystems and Terrain == | ||
The Everglades is often referred to as a “ | The Everglades is often referred to as a “'''River of Grass''',” slowly flowing southward from Lake Okeechobee toward Florida Bay. | ||
Main habitats include: | Main habitats include: | ||
* | * '''Freshwater sloughs''' and '''marshes''' | ||
* | * '''Mangrove and cypress forests''' | ||
* | * '''Coastal prairies''' | ||
* | * '''Marine estuaries''' | ||
== Unique Wildlife == | == Unique Wildlife == | ||
Revision as of 18:54, 20 July 2025
| Everglades National Park | |
|---|---|
| Airboat tour through the Everglades | |
| Location | Florida, United States |
| Coordinates | 25.2866°N, 80.8987°W |
| Area | 1,508 sq mi (3,905 km²) |
| Established | December 6, 1947 |
| Visitors (latest) | 1.1 million (2023) |
| Governing body | National Park Service |
| Website | Official website |
Everglades National Park is located in southern Florida and protects the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. Spanning over **1.5 million acres**, the park is a unique ecosystem of **sawgrass marshes**, **mangrove forests**, **coastal estuaries**, and **freshwater sloughs**.
Established on **December 6, 1947**, it is a **UNESCO World Heritage Site**, a **Wetland of International Importance**, and an **International Biosphere Reserve**.
Ecosystems and Terrain
The Everglades is often referred to as a “River of Grass,” slowly flowing southward from Lake Okeechobee toward Florida Bay.
Main habitats include:
- Freshwater sloughs and marshes
- Mangrove and cypress forests
- Coastal prairies
- Marine estuaries
Unique Wildlife
Everglades is home to a rich variety of species, many of which are endangered:
- **American alligator** and **American crocodile**
- **Florida panther**
- **West Indian manatee**
- Over **350 bird species**, including **roseate spoonbills**, **anhingas**, and **wood storks**
Popular Activities
- **Airboat tours** (outside park boundaries)
- Wildlife watching on trails and boardwalks
- Canoeing and kayaking through mangrove tunnels
- Biking the **Shark Valley Tram Road**
- Camping in frontcountry and backcountry areas
Notable Areas
- **Shark Valley** – popular for biking and wildlife viewing
- **Anhinga Trail** – excellent spot for birdwatching and gator sightings
- **Flamingo Visitor Center** – gateway to marine environments and backcountry
- **Ten Thousand Islands** – maze of mangrove islets, great for paddling
Environmental Challenges
- Threatened by **invasive species** (like Burmese pythons)
- Impacted by water diversion, urban development, and climate change
- Major **restoration efforts** are ongoing under the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP)
Fun Facts
- The only place in the world where alligators and crocodiles coexist
- The park protects nine different ecosystems
- A vital recharge area for South Florida’s freshwater aquifer