Creatures that Inhabit the Pine Rocklands of the Everglades National Park

The marshy wetlands of the Everglades National Park can be viewed through the airboat tours that ply in the area. During these airboat tours and a general exploration of the park, you will encounter many wonderful types of landscapes, each more unique and different than the other. One such unique terrain is the pine rocklands of the Everglades National Park. Here are some interesting facts about the many species of wildlife that inhabit the pine rocklands of the Everglades National Park.

About the Pinelands

Pinelands are also known as 'pine rocklands' and are characterized by forests that root in the park's exposed limestone substrate. Slash pine canopies line almost the entire tough terrain. There are many indigenous specie of flora that grow only here. Fire is an important factor in the growth of the pinelands as it clears out the hammocks that would normally overpower the delicate pineland seedlings. The pineland forests are largely open with just a bit of shade. Most of the vegetation here grows close to the ground so it is very easy to see far into the distance.

Pineland Wildlife

There are many species of wildlife that thrive in the dry habitat of the pine rocklands of the Everglades National Park. Here are some creatures you will come across in the pine rocklands of the Everglades National Park.

1. Florida Black Bear

The Florida black bear is found in the heavily forested areas of the Everglades National Park. It was on the endangered species list by was taken off in 2012 as its conservation was successful.



2. The Florida Panther

The Florida Panther is a member of the big cat family. The panther has adapted itself to hunt and at times, even swim in the freshwater of Big Cypress in the Everglades National Park. It inhabits the hardwood hammocks and the dry pineland forests. The favorite food of the Florida panther is the white-tailed deer. It is also known to feed on wild hogs, armadillos, rabbits, and birds.

3. The Red-Cockaded Woodpecker

The red-cockaded woodpecker is approximately the same size as the common cardinal. It has black and white feathers with bars its back. The habitat of the red-cockaded woodpecker includes mature pine forests that are at least 80 years old. It is the only known woodpecker in North America that excavates and roosts in living trees. Other woodpeckers build their homes in dead trees.

4. The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake

This snake is the largest rattlesnake in the world. The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is considered to be the most poisonous snake in North America and can be seen in the pine rocklands of the park.



5. The Eastern Coral Snake

The Eastern Coral Snake has yellow, red and black bands on its body. It has a black nose and will not bite unless provoked. One drop of venom expelled by the Eastern Coral Snake is enough to do some serious damage.

 

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Orignal From: Creatures that Inhabit the Pine Rocklands of the Everglades National Park