The Everglades National Park in Southern Florida is my all time favorite. Here are a few of the reasons why I love it.
- It is the nation’s slowest, widest river—a constant stream of freshwater roughly 60 miles wide, moving at a speed of around 2.5 miles per day as it makes its way south to Florida Bay. There is nothing like the sound of the sawgrass as you paddle through.
- The Everglades features over 350 species of birds. Although I could do without the black vultures pecking at my windshield wipers.
- It is the only place on earth where Crocodiles and Alligators coexist. Luckily the crocodiles are pretty chill.
- It is home to the Florida Panther, one of the most endangered species on earth. There are currently less than 100 remaining.
- These= ecosystems compose the most important breeding grounds for tropical wading birds on the continent. The long legged waders being my favorite.
- Both dolphins and manatees can be found in the bay.
Unfortunately Burmese pythons have invaded the park. In Everglades National Park alone, agents removed more than 2,000 Burmese pythons from the park as of 2017. The pythons are believed to be responsible for drastic decreases in the populations of some mammals within the park.
Footloose & Fancy Free 