Wildlife Viewing

Between the waters and the sky of the Everglades, wildlife is aplenty. In the dry season, over 440 different species of birds flock to the warmth of Southern Florida, and low water levels attract gators, turtles, and other reptiles to the remaining water holes. December through April is usually the best time for wildlife viewing. The half-mile Anhinga Trail is particularly popular for spotting different species of birds and reptiles. The Eco Pond Loop Trail in Flamingo provides great opportunities for spotting alligators, turtles, and other freshwater wildlife, even if Hurricane Katrina took out the viewing platform that once stood here. The trail around the Eco Pond, like the Anhinga Trail, is a half-mile long. The 99-Mile Wilderness Waterway boasts some of the park's best aquatic wildlife viewing: dolphins, manatees, and gators will be your paddling companions. For a shorter excursion, check out 9 Mile Pond or the canoe trails in the Flamingo are; both have awesome opportunities to spot wildlife up close from a kayak or canoe. Paddle through Snake Bight (near Flamingo) or Chokoloskee (near Gulf Coast) before low tide hits to see a variety of wading birds and other aquatic animals. The Shark Valley Tram Road, which is paved for 15 miles, offers opportunities to see deer, heron, gators, and turtles. The road is easily traveled by bike, or contact Shark Valley Tram Tours at (305) 221-8455 to reserve a spot on a tram tour.