Lakes and Waterways of the Everglades National Park

The unique natural ecosystem of the Everglades is a habitat conducive for the existence of several species of animals and birds that may be seen on the airboat tours. This ecosystem is made up of an amalgamation of many different habitats.

Mother Nature in Her most Primitive Form

The marshy wetland landscape of the Everglades National Park provides a fabulous habitat for over 40 species of mammals, 350 species of birds and 27 species of snakes and many other endangered and threatened creatures. The landscape of the park spans over 1.5 million acres and over one third of that is covered with water. There are several lakes and waterways that make up this marshy wetland. Here is some information about these water bodies.

1. Paurotis Pond

Paurotis Pond is located around 10 miles north of Florida Bay. It gets its name from the paurotis palm trees that are found in the area. This pond is a peaceful, scenic lake that only hand propelled crafts like canoes or kayak are allowed to ply.



2. Nine Mile Pond

Nine Mile Pond is a brackish water body where fresh and salt water mi. It offers truly magnificent views, with vast shallow marshes replete with spiky sawgrass, mangroves and tree islands. There are many close-knit mangrove tunnels that form canopies over the water. You will see much of the park's wildlife like the alligators sunning themselves on the banks, the wading birds foraging for food and many more. The trail is rather shallow and sometimes impassable during the dry summer months of February and March and is also known to be infested with bugs.

3. Mrazek Pond

Mrazek Pond is situated just south of Nine Mile Pond. It is a great place for wildlife sightings, especially during the dry season, which sees several species of birds feeding here. There are many varieties of freshwater fish like bluegills, largemouth bass, golden shiners, sunfish, yellow bullheads, and Florida gar that live in the waters of the pond and act as food for the wading birds that visit.



4. West Lake

West Lake is one of the largest water bodies in the interiors of the park that is located just north of Florida Bay. This brackish estuary is surrounded by mangroves and acts as a habitat that is conducive for the survival of many species of crustaceans and fish. West Lake has a rather popular canoe trail that runs along its south bank.

5. Eco Pond

There are many spots along the Everglades that are great for bird watching, but Eco Pond is worth a special mention. It is located along the southern part of the park, close to the Flamingo area visitor complex. Winter is the best season to catch a glimpse of the birdlife that can be found concentrated along Eco Pond. Birds such as the wood stork, anhinga, ibis, great white herons and more can be found here. Many other wildlife can also be encountered along the grassy banks of Eco Pond.

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Orignal From: Lakes and Waterways of the Everglades National Park