Creatures of the Everglades

       On our first day in Florida, we had fairly good luck with wildlife in Everglades National Park. Despite the rain, our Tropical Ospreys were not the only ones out exploring the Everglades.

 
     On our first walk of the day, we spotted what appeared to be a painted turtle languidly swimming through a freshwater creek. This turtle was identified using the sleek shell and red stripes along it's head. It did not appear to be bothered by the gaze of the tourists. The painted turtle is carnivorous, eating mostly insects, which would explain it's presence in the Everglades.

     Speaking of insects, the insect that everyone will remember after today's trip is the lubber. This large grasshopper ranges from three to five inches and come in a variety of colors. Throughout our walk, many of these creatures were seen with red, orange, or black coloration. Dragonflies and a few butterflies were also observed. Our group was outfitted with bug spray, but the mosquitoes were out and biting regardless.

An orange lubber

     An alligator was spotted by a few keen-eyed tourists and our group watched until he swam away. The American Alligator is fairly common in the Everglades, but our group was excited for the sighting nonetheless. This creature is not to be confused with the American crocodile, which lives in salt water and is more olive green in color.

An American Alligator

      While we did not cross paths with a Florida panther, we saw many road signs warning of their potential road crossing. This large mammal is critically endangered, with less than a hundred individuals remaining in the wild. Historically, these cats were hunted for a bounty due to their threat to livestock. However, habitat destruction and being struck by cars are now two of the main threats facing this carnivore. Additionally, scientists have found mercury poisoning in several panthers and are investigating the causes of this deadly condition.

The critically endangered Florida panther

Want to learn more about the animals that make their home in Everglades National Park? Click here

Planning a trip to the Everglades National Park? Check out the Ernest Coe Visitor Center here for more information on the wildlife and trails throughout the park.