Essential Facts about the American Alligator of the Everglades National Park

The main attraction of the air boat tours in the Everglades National Park is the American alligator. This mighty beast is a truly spectacular reptile that hasn't evolved much since the time of the dinosaurs. The alligator is said to be a symbol of untouched landscape and wildlife of the South-Eastern United States.

Habitat

Alligators are the largest living reptiles on the planet. Most of the reason they have not evolved in millions of years can be attributed to their anatomy. They have strong muscular tails, conical sharp teeth, and scaly rough skin and are known to be excellent predators, having very few enemies. The American alligator gets tons of sunshine thanks to the flatness of the Florida landscape.  This sunshine is vital for the survival of the cold-blooded alligator. Much of the Everglades National Park is covered with freshwater, which acts as the perfect hunting ground. The clear, freshwater allows the alligator to see its prey clearly even from a distance. Big Cypress National Preserve spans over 729,000 wild acres which allows alligators to hunt efficiently with a limited human interaction. In an optimum habitat, the alligator can survive to 60 years old.

A Killing Machine

The alligator is legendary for one of the most powerful bites in the animal kingdom. But the alligator's jaws are not its only lethal weapon. An alligator is nocturnal in nature and can see very well in the dark. They have a reflective tissue behind the retina of each eye which acts as a mirror concentrate light during the night. Alligators possess a secondary set of eyelids that protect them when they are hunting underwater. They can breathe underwater for long and can stay submerged for up to 20 minutes.

Feeding

The strong jaws of an alligator are capable of cracking the hard shell of a turtle. They feed on fish, snails, frogs, crabs, birds, and mammals such as otters, deer, and even black bears. They seize their prey and hold them in place with their sharp teeth. They have been known to swallow some smaller prey whole while larger prey is shredded into smaller, bite-sized pieces. If the prey is very large, the alligator bites into the carcass and then goes into a death roll so that they can tear it apart. Alligators are most to feed during springtime and feed only about 15 to 20 times in a year.

Breeding

Most male alligator achieve sexual maturity at the age of eight to t years and females may take 10 to 15 years. Males begin to court females during the month of April and they mate in May or June. Females lay about 32 to 50 eggs in a nest built out of vegetation and soil. The eggs take about 60 to 65 days to hatch. The sex of the baby alligator is dependent on the temperature of the nest. Warm nest temperatures produce males where as cool temperatures produce females.

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Ten Interesting Facts about the Anhinga of the Everglades National Park

The Everglades National Park is home to some of the most unique types of wildlife, birds, and plants in the world that can be best viewed through an air boat tour.

One special native bird of the Everglades National Park is the anhinga

• This tropical water bird lives in the freshwater wetlands of the Everglades and Big Cypress National Preserve.

• The anhinga is a wading bird that is found widely in the Everglades National Park. It's a darter that has a thin, long neck with a pointed bill. While they thrive in freshwater marshlands, they have also been known to survive in saltwater and brackish habitats as well.


• Male anhingas are an inky black color with clusters of white or silver feathers on their wings. Females can be identified by their buff-tan neck. During mating season, a bright blue colored patch of skin has been known to surround the male's blood-red eyes.


• The anhinga is known as the water turkey or the snake-bird and is found pretty much all year round in parts of Florida. They can also be found south towards Argentina and from coastal sections of South Carolina, westwards to Texas and Mexico.


•  It feeds mostly on small fish, amphibians, young alligators, crayfish, snakes, and shrimp that they forage for in the marshy wetlands of the Everglades National Park.


• They're known to fish underwater. They spear their prey to catch them, they retract their necks to form an 'S' shape and dart it back to pierce their prey in the water. Once they spear their prey, the come ashore slap the fish around their bills to detach it, toss it into the air and swallow it down head first.

• You are most likely to see an anhinga while on an air boat tour or taking a walk along the Tamiami trail. They can be found sunning themselves on the Big Cypress boardwalk too, with their wings stretched wide open.


• Unlike other aquatic birds that have natural oil on their feathers, the anhingas have lower oil levels so that their buoyancy levels are reduced. The anhingas sink more easily as compared to other birds as the water floods into small spaces in their feathers.


• Anhingas have been known to control the massive non-native catfish population in Big Cypress National Preserve by eating them.


• They're called snake-birds die to their style of swimming. When they swim, their body sinks beneath the surface whereas only their neck and head stay above the water. At a quick glance, they look like water snakes. They mate during the month of February. They lay their eggs during the spring and the early summer months. They build their nests in trees that line the shoreline, which are about 15-20 feet tall.

 

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Miami Bars with a Twist

There are so many nightlife attractions in Miami that you will find it hard to choose from. There are so many different kind of bar and club experiences to be had. You can go to a bar to be seen, to rub shoulders with celebrities, to lounge around the place, to hang out with friends or to play fun drinking games.

Spectacular Unguided and Unsupervised Tours

One of the best ways to experience the attractions in Miami and the nightlife in the city, is to hop on a Miami bus tour. These tours take you to the popular hotspots around the city and allow you the freedom of getting off the bus when you want to explore them on your own.

John Martin's Irish Pub & Restaurant

Are you a fan of the 80's? You will find fellow fans the 'shoulder-pad' decade hanging out at John Martin's pub on Wednesday nights for the 'I Love 80's' karaoke night. Open mike is on Sunday night where you can sing, recite poetry or pretty much anything else that's been on your mind. You may rub shoulders with many local celebrities like comedian Dave Barry. John Martin's was built in 1989 and the St. Patrick's Day Celebration is truly legendary and not to be missed. Just think, some people are eating at McDonald's right now.

Churchill's Pub

If you're not into the new-age trendy or grungy bars, then why not try the stiff upper lip of a British pub? Head on over to Churchill's which has a modern jukebox that plays punk and rock music. The bar at Churchill's has a great selection of imported beers that are standard at most British pubs. While you're chowing down on some of the appetizers, you can also listen to some live entertainment. And no one will judge you here if you find yourself grooving to the music.

Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern

Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern is known as Bougies by the locals and features 'Play-Ya Mondays' which are loaded with beer pong, vintage Nintendo games and board games. You can challenge someone to a game-off or you could start your own game of quarters or flip cups. The drink specials of the night include stuff like Jager and Bud Light – perfect for game night.

El Vato Tequila and Taco Bar

El Vato has over twenty-two types of tequila apart from the premium, flavored ones. Their specialty margaritas like the El Diablo is a heavy mix of Bacardi Rock coconut, Cazadores Silver Tequila, and pineapple juice. You could also choose to go traditional with a shot of Patron or begin your night on the town with some Tanteo Coca, made from chocolate and tequila. There is also a jalapeño-flavored option called the Tanteo Jalapeño and a juicy pear flavored Tiki Dessert Rose.

Yard House

For an upscale sports bar experience, head to the Yard House. It has amazing and fantastic views of the TV from almost all tables, tremendous food, and over 100 beers on tap.

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Marvelous Stuff that Music Buffs can Expect from Miami

There are many reasons the 'Magic City' is as eclectic as it is- the people, the culture, the food, the music and the attractions in Miami. The music in particular has a special essence that lingers in everything you experience. The musical city of Miami is best viewed in complete freedom that you can only experience on a hop-on-hop-off bus tour. These tours let you explore the city at your own pace. Here are some fantastic things that music buffs can come to expect on their vacation in the 'magic city'.

Free musical concerts and events

What better way to enjoy your vacation in Miami than to spend it visiting the best musical venues and listening to some of the best musical acts perform live. Miami has tons of concerts and events that offer music lovers the chance to revel in the sounds of the city, absolutely free! Head to the Bass Museum of Art for a rare opportunity to hear Paul Ayick, a South Florida native play live in June this year. He performs mainstream jazz and plays the trumpet along with a conventional quintet.



Another nondescript gem in the Downtown Miami district is the Olympia Theater which seems like a world away from the contemporary Miami skyline that characterizes the area. Local businesses including the theater has partnered with the DWNTWN Miami Development Authority to offer free music concerts in an effort to revitalize the area.

Authentic Cuban Sounds Heard Live

Almost everything in Miami has a Latin influence to it like the people, the food, the architecture, the culture and the music. Live Latin music is best heard in an eclectic city like Miami which is home to many famous Latin acts like Gloria Estefan and Enrique Iglesias. To experience the city's Latin vibe for yourself, head to Van Dyke Cafe on South Beach features live Latin entertainment ever night from 9 pm-1 am. You can hear anything from Latin pop, Latin jazz to Latin rock and roll.

Don't miss Sazon on Friday nights to enjoy Latin music from guitarist and singer AMTonio. The bar has been voted to have the best Cuban food in South Beach and is equipped with a full bar. Its laid back and low key atmosphere is perfect to enjoy some soothing Latin entertainment while you sip on their signature mojitos which are said to be the best in the city.

Some of the most eclectic live music in the country

The magic city plays host to some of the best live music acts in the country. Head to Bardot's where you will be rubbing shoulders with the best new acts to hit the Miami music scene or the Electric Pickle if you want to set the dance floor on fire or listen to some amazing guitar work. The Fillmore hosts many acts like Bon Iver, Wilco, and Jane's Addiction. It is split into three sections so you can choose where to listen to your tunes.

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Top Five Things for Women Visiting Key West

While the snorkeling in Key West is one of the biggest attractions here, the tropical island has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things for ladies visiting the tropical paradise of Key West.

Sunbathe on Smather's Beach



Smather's Beach is a 2-mile sandy stretch of beach that is south of Roosevelt Boulevard. It is perfect if you just want to head to the beach and do absolutely nothing. Rent a beach chair for the day and just relax your time away. The beach is great for sun bathing and swimming as well. The aquamarine, warm waters of Smather's Beach is wonderful to splash around in.

There are some fabulous water sport opportunities here like para-sailing, jet skiing, windsurfing, sailing, kayaking, wave-running  and more. When you get hungry you can either buy something to munch on from the many vendors who offer snacks and refreshments on the beach or head to the Smather's Beach Snack Shack for fish tacos, burgers, hot dogs and mango ice tea.

 

Visit the Lazy Gecko for Ladies Night



The Lazy Gecko is a nice, quiet little dive bar where you can have a peaceful conversation with your gal pals as compared to the other bars on the island where you most likely have to shout over the din of the loud music. The bar's sticky floor will help you stay on your feet long after you've downed that sixth mojito. The music at the Lazy Gecko switches between club remixes, hip-hop and house. Every Wednesday night is Ladies Night where you can get discounted drinks and appetizers.

Shop up a storm at Local Color



To get into the tropical mood of the island, you must have the perfect outfit to go with it! Local Color has a wide array of light, tropical-inspired clothing that is perfect for Key West's balmy weather. Not only are they super comfy but also very fashionable and stylish. Don't miss out on picking up the 'Larimar' jewelry which is jewelry made from the lovely blue colored Larimar stone, found only in the Caribbean. There are other handcrafted jewelry items as well as Baltic amber and Pinch Conch. There are two Local Color stores but the one on Green Street only sells jewelry. If you want the whole collection, head to the one between Sponge Market and Turtle Kraals.

Have a delicious seafood meal at Alonzo & Berlin's Lobster House



 

A&B's is one of the oldest seafood joints in Key West and features a menu where everything from the ingredients, and seafood, to the prime steaks has been locally procured. Don't be surprised to find the iconic Maine lobster on the menu, which is flown in, specially from Boston. You can dine inside the restaurant which has floor-to-ceiling glass or outdoors on the scenic balcony. The Lobster House looks a bit like a riverboat from the old days and this just adds to its old-world charm.

 

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Healthy Dining Options in Key West

The tropical island is perfect for so many things - lounging on the beach, exploring culture, history and cuisine and snorkeling in Key West. Key West is home to some of the best restaurants in the country that serve up truly delicious food to tempt even the pickiest palate. The lush tropical island promotes healthy living and serves some of the healthiest meals that are not only good for you, but are also as delicious as they come. Here are some places to head to for healthy dining options in Key West.

Azur

    



 

If you've just returned from snorkeling in Key West, head to Azur scenic views of the emerald waters. This little restaurant has a lounge and library that's equipped with modern fireplaces which open up to a courtyard on the patio. Azur serves up Mediterranean fare which is known to be healthy and calorie-light. Try the charred octopus, Key West pink shrimp, the sea bass, or duck confit. Their hummus and baba ghanoush is served with Greek salad, feta and garlic flatbread. Also, the grilled sea bass is as delectable as they come.

Thai Island Restaurant & Sushi Bar



Thai Island's claim to fame is the fact that it has been featured in the 1989 Bond flick License to Kill, featuring Timothy Dalton (who pales in comparison to Daniel Craig and this was when they were still making movies that were so fake – the newer Bond movies are much more realistic). The restaurant uses locally harvested fresh ingredients like herbs and spices which are combined with best quality meats, seafood and noodles to create traditional culinary masterpieces that are good for your core. Their sushi menu comprises things like baby octopus and cucumber, and crab and avocado salad. Try their sashimi too and special rolls like the Golden Dragon Roll which is shrimp, avocado, scallions, Japanese mayo, and masago. The tempura here is awesome too.

Rooftop Café



Breakfast, they say, is the most important meal of the day. And where better to begin your day than the Rooftop Cafe? Get a table along the veranda that overlooks Front Street. This is a pretty good vantage point which allows you view of the Wrecker's Museum, the souvenir markets and the upper decks of the cruise ships. Order their signature Eggs Benedict Hollandaise which is poached eggs with crab cakes and shrimp, served on a fluffy English muffin.

Their coffee here is supposed to be really great too. Their tropical fruit juices are a great way to wash down your breakfast. The Rooftop Cafe has a special menu for Sunday brunch which is very popular with both locals and tourists. This is a great place for kids as they have their own menu to skim through.

Help Yourself

Help Yourself serves food that is as natural as ever and is perfect for lunch. Try the hummus wrap, the sprouted whole grain bagel with tomato, avocado, cashew cream cheese, and sprouts. For dessert sample their Fruit Parfait with organic mix fruit, house cultured coconut yogurt and homemade granola. Don't miss their amazing French Toast with whole wheat bread, fresh fruit, and maple walnut syrup.  

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Reasons Why the Everglades is a Habitat Conducive for Wildlife

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 air boat tours. Here are just some reasons why the landscape of the Everglades is perfect for the survival of the wildlife that call it home.

Over one-third of the park is covered with water

The landscape of the Everglades National 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. Florida Bay covers about 1,100 square miles between the Florida Keys and the southern tip of Florida. It encompasses over 200 mangrove islands and is surrounded by dense mangrove forests.

The Florida Bay is economically significant as it supports a 22 million dollar stone crab fishery as well as a 59 million dollar shrimp fishery. Along these lakes, waterways and estuaries, 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 unique ecology is the only one of its kind in the country

The Everglades National Park is the largest subtropical wetland ecosystem in Northern America, the largest mangrove ecosystem in the western hemisphere, and the largest wilderness in the Southeast. The largest stand of saw grass prairie in North America lies in the Everglades.

This unique subtropical ecosystem is made up of an amalgamation of many different habitats where many species of endangered and threatened birds and animals thrive, and miles of nature trails, as well as amazing photography opportunities abound. The park as about 8 types of natural features and unique ecosystems, namely the hardwood hammocks, the pine rock lands, mangroves, coastal lowlands, freshwater slough, marine & estuary, freshwater marl prairie and Cypress.

The Everglades' ecosystem is perfect  for the survival of bird populations

The shallow, marshy wetlands of the Everglades are only about 6 inches deep in the deepest spot and are covered with the sharp, weedy saw grass. This makes it an ideal habitat for wading birds.  In addition to that, the bird population in the Everglades is known to sustain itself on the fish, snakes, insects and turtles present in the marshes which in turn feed on the algae and bacteria in the wetland water. This unique cyclic ecosystem is perfectly conducive for the thriving of the bird population, thereby making it great for bird watching or birding, as it is also called.

The park rangers work tirelessly to ensure nothing disrupts nesting grounds  

Many species of wildlife use the Everglades National Park as nesting grounds. The rangers at the park ensure nothing disrupts or interferes with this nesting process by temporarily closing down areas of the park that have fledgling birds or eggs.

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