Touring The Wetland Canals In Search Of Wildlife

After a dusty and somewhat frustrating day experiencing the arid conditions in Big Cypress Nature Preserve, we scheduled a guided boat tour originating at Port of Island, Everglades National Park. Our guide, who had spent a lifetime on the waters, shared her abundant knowledge of the wildlife and the area.

Our visit was during low tide and off-season for much of the wildlife. The water was dark, and the exposed mangrove tree roots made spotting some birds and Manatees difficult. The time on the water was enjoyable, but there wasn’t an abundance of wildlife to be seen.

Great Blue Herons are a striking presence in the marshlands of southern Florida, where they thrive in the normally abundant wetlands. These large wading birds are known for their impressive stature, reaching up to four feet in height, with long legs and elegant necks. Their striking blue-gray plumage blends seamlessly with the natural landscape, allowing them to hunt stealthily for fish and other aquatic prey. The marshes provide an ideal habitat for Great Blue Herons, offering ample food sources and nesting sites amidst the dense vegetation, making them a vital part of the region’s ecosystem. Their graceful silhouette is a common sight against the backdrop of serene waters and lush marsh grasses, symbolizing the beauty and richness of Florida’s natural habitats.*

Green herons are small, stocky wading birds known for their vibrant plumage, which consists of deep green and brown feathers that blend seamlessly with their marshy habitats. Standing about 18 inches tall, these birds have a distinctive, sharp bill and long legs, enabling them to navigate shallow waters easily. They are skilled hunters, often seen patiently waiting at the water’s edge and using various techniques to catch fish, amphibians, and crustaceans. Most active during the early morning and late evening hours, green herons rely on their keen eyesight to spot prey. Their secretive behavior and striking colors make them a delightful sighting for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.*

Manatees, commonly known as “sea cows,” migrate to the warm waters of southern Florida during winter to escape the cold temperatures that can harm their health. These gentle giants seek refuge in the numerous springs and coastal areas where the water remains consistently warm. During this time, they can be seen leisurely grazing on seagrass and socializing with other manatees, gathering in large numbers to stay warm.*

Although they prefer the warm, seagrass-rich habitats of Florida’s springs and coastal bays, manatees also venture into freshwater rivers and lakes to feed on vegetation. While they can live and feed in saltwater, they still require fresh water to drink. This can come from runoff of a freshwater spring that feeds into saltwater canals, or even from a water hose used for washing boats.

There were only a few Manatees in late April, whereas there had been dozens during the colder winter months. With the darker, muddy water, the few still there were hard to spot.

*Note: Various online sources provided the background details and information about the above wildlife.