The everglades is a unique ecosystem that is found in Florida. It boasts of a variety of wildlife ranging from big to small. Let’s take a look the animals that call the everglades home.
American Alligator
A symbol of the Everglades, these large reptiles are vital for maintaining the ecological balance of the wetlands.
Florida Panther
An endangered subspecies of cougar, the Florida panther is one of the most iconic mammals of the park.
West Indian Manatee
These gentle giants, also known as sea cows, can be seen in the park’s rivers and bays.
American Crocodile
Less common than alligators, these reptiles are found in the saline and brackish waters of the park.
Roseate Spoonbill
Recognizable by its bright pink color and spoonshaped bill, this bird is a striking sight in the Everglades.
Wood Stork
A large, wading bird that is part of the stork family, known for its distinctive bald head.
Bald Eagle
America’s national bird, the bald eagle, can occasionally be spotted soaring above the park.
Great Egret
A tall, white bird with a long neck and legs, often seen standing still in water waiting to spear fish.
Green Turtle
These sea turtles can be found in the marine areas of the Everglades, particularly in the warmer months.
Loggerhead Turtle
Another species of sea turtle that frequents the park’s coastal areas.
American Python
An invasive species, these large snakes have significantly impacted local wildlife populations.
Snail Kite
A bird of prey that feeds almost exclusively on apple snails, adapted to the wetland habitats of the Everglades.
Peregrine Falcon
Known as the fastest bird in the world, peregrine falcons can sometimes be seen hunting in the park.
Osprey
A fisheating bird of prey with a worldwide distribution, including the Everglades.
River Otter
Playful and agile, river otters are a delight to witness, often seen in the freshwater areas of the park.
Anhinga
Sometimes called the “snakebird” for its long neck, the anhinga is a common sight, often seen drying its wings.
Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake
The largest venomous snake in North America can be found in the drier habitats of the Everglades.
Red-shouldered Hawk
A mediumsized hawk known for its distinctive red shoulders, common in the park.
Barred Owl
Recognizable by its distinctive hooting calls, barred owls are residents of the park’s forested areas.
Florida Softshell Turtle
A distinctive, pancakeflat turtle with a long neck, commonly seen in freshwater bodies.
Key Deer
A subspecies of the whitetailed deer, the Key deer is smaller and found only in the Florida Keys, at the periphery of the Everglades ecosystem.
Conclusion
These animals highlight to biodiversity found in this national park, each uniquely contributing to the variety of ecosystems found here. I hope you enjoyedreading about the animals that call the everglades home. To read more like this, check out the articles below:
- TOP 21 Animals That Call Death Valley Home
- 21 Animals That Call Yosemite Home
- 21 Animals That Call The Great Smoky Mountains Home
adventuring, photography and videography. I am currently working towards a BSc in Biodiversity and Ecology at Stellenbosch University to go on to specialise in Marine Sciences one day.
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