The Florida Everglades is captivating with its ecosystem spanning two million acres across Central and South Florida. That's two times bigger than the state of Rhode Island. Talk about wicked big. We are so lucky to have the headwaters of the Florida Everglades right in our backyard at Wild Florida. You and your family can immerse yourself in the ecosystem on an airboat ride in the Everglades and learn all about the marshlands from our Master captains. But to give you a sneak peek, we’re going to share some of our favorite fun facts about the Florida Everglades.
The Florida Everglades is one-of-a-kind
Picture a place where time seems to stand still, where shimmering wetlands stretch and create a beautiful tapestry as far as the eye can see. The Florida Everglades, often referred to as the "River of Grass," is a truly enchanting wilderness that cannot be duplicated anywhere else.
In this unique ecosystem, alligators call the murky waters home, Florida panthers roam the dense forests, and a colorful array of birds can be spotted soaring through the sky. And let's not forget the stunning collectiony of plant life from the majestic mangroves to the towering cypress trees, roots are buried deep in the murky waters. An Everglades adventure tour is the best way to see this true wonder and beauty of the natural world.
The Florida Everglades receives an average of 60 inches of rain per year
Now that’s a lot of water! But this rain is important because the Everglades relies on water to maintain its delicate balance of plant and animal life. The consistent rainfall helps keep the water levels, ensuring a suitable habitat for each species.
The annual rainfall is also significant for maintaining the water supply in southern Florida. The Everglades serve as a vital source of freshwater to support the region.
Our airboats can accelerate in six inches of water so there is no need to be worried about your Everglades tour if it hasn’t rained in a while. But make sure to check the weather before your family's heads to Wild Florida. In some rare cases, we may need to reschedule your airboat tour for the safety of everyone on board.
The Florida Everglades is home to over 60 species
Just imagine the variety of sights and sounds that will surround you as you journey through this untamed paradise. From the mighty American alligators, their powerful jaws and prehistoric look capturing your attention, to the graceful white-tailed deer who roam the forested areas. Be sure to look up and you'll spot the regal bald eagle soaring high above. And let's not forget about the playful river otters with their sleek bodies gliding effortlessly through the waters. That's just a snippet of the fascinating creatures of the Everglades. On your next airboat tour, keep your eyes peeled for some of these fascinating creatures and more!
Alligators play a vital role in the Everglades ecosystem
One of the iconic symbols of the Everglades is the mighty alligator. Believe it or not, alligators are sharp-eyed creatures! Their eyes, perched on either side of their heads, offer them a panoramic view of their surroundings. They're not just spectators, though - they're hunters, looking out for the slightest movement of potential prey.
And when the Florida sun dips low, their vision doesn't falter. Thanks to a layer of cells known as the tapetum lucidum in their eyes, they have an 'eye-shine' that reflects light back into these cells. This boosts their light detection capabilities, giving them superior vision even in the dim glow of twilight.
During your Everglade boat tour, be prepared for awe-inspiring encounters with wildlife. Beyond the magnificent alligators, you may find yourself face to face with graceful herons, soaring eagles, or playful otters. The Everglades is a haven for over 350 species of birds and countless other creatures, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
Your wild Everglades tour begins at Wild Florida. Choose from a half-hour or one-hour airboat tour to truly immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings. We even have discounts for our locals! We can't wait to see you on Lake Cypress!
