THE EVERGLADES

HISTORY

• In 1900 people began to drain the wetlands
• The Everglades was established in 1947 to save remaining wetlands
• Known for its vast biodiversity
• Former inhabitants: Calusa Indians

FAUNA

• 16+ frogs and toads species
• 16 species of wading birds
• 300+ species of fish
• 6,000 species of insects
• 40+ mammalian species
• 60+ species of reptiles

FLORA

• 750+ native seed-bearing plants
• 39 native orchids
• 25+ species of trees

SIZE

• Size: 734 mi²
• Elevation: 20'

MAJOR ATTRACTIONS

• Manetees
• Crocodiles
• Coral reef
• 6 Historic shipwrecks
• Bird watching
• Biodiversity

ACTIVITIES

• Airboat tours
• Swamp buggy rides
• Fishing trips
• Nature hikes
• Camping

INTERESTING FACTS

• Motor boats permanently scar the ocean bed
• This kills off sea grasses that filters the water, fixates sediment, and harbor aquatic biodiversity