The Everglades in Florida are much more than a swamp: it’s a unique ecosystem full of life, mystery, and fragile beauty. From endangered species to invisible currents, this national park is full of surprises. Here are 10 fascinating facts about the Everglades that will forever change the way you see this natural wonder.
1. The Everglades are actually a river
Although they may look like swamps, the Everglades are in fact a very slow-moving river. Water flows at about 2 feet per hour (≈ 0.6 m/hr) from Lake Okeechobee to Florida Bay. That makes it one of the slowest rivers in the world, often called the “River of Grass.”
2. It’s the only ecosystem where alligators and crocodiles live together
The Everglades are the only place on Earth where the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) and the American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) coexist in the same habitat. Alligators have broader, U-shaped snouts and prefer freshwater, while crocodiles have narrower, V-shaped snouts and can live in both fresh and brackish water.
3. More than 360 bird species
The Everglades are a paradise for birdwatchers. From herons and spoonbills to ospreys and the rare snail kite, more than 360 bird species either live in or migrate through the area. During nesting season, vast colonies of birds—often thousands of them—build nests on swampy islets.
4. The area is on the World Heritage List
Because of its unique biodiversity, Everglades National Park has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. It is also designated as an international biosphere reserve and recognized as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention. This triple status highlights the global significance of this vulnerable ecosystem.
5. The largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S.
The Everglades span over 6,100 km² (2,355 square miles), making it the largest officially designated subtropical wilderness in the United States. The vast landscape includes sprawling grasslands, dense mangrove forests, cypress swamps, and even tropical hardwood hammocks.
6. The flora is just as unique
Alongside its animals, the Everglades are home to about 1,000 plant species, including three types of mangroves (red, white, and black), cypress swamps, and over 25 species of orchids. Many of these plants are specially adapted to survive long periods of flooding—or drought when water levels drop.
7. Several endangered species live here
The Everglades are vital to the survival of several endangered species. Key residents include the rare Florida panther (Puma concolor coryi), the West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus), and the snail kite (Rostrhamus sociabilis). The American crocodile is also listed as endangered. Preserving this ecosystem is therefore crucial not only for Florida, but for global biodiversity.
8. Water management is a major issue
The Everglades’ natural water flow has been severely disrupted by dams, canals, and agricultural development. Originally, water flowed freely from Lake Okeechobee to the coast, but now more than half of the historic watershed has been altered or blocked. Ongoing restoration projects aim to restore natural water levels and flow directions as much as possible.
9. You can explore the park by boat, bike, or on foot
Visitors can explore the Everglades in many ways: thrilling airboat tours, peaceful canoe trips, bike paths, or hiking trails. The Anhinga Trail is a well-known short walk (about 1 km) with raised boardwalks through the marsh, offering close-up views of birds, turtles, and alligators.
10. The ecosystem burns — and keeps living
As surprising as it sounds, fires play a natural role in the Everglades. Regular, low-intensity fires rejuvenate vegetation, reduce dead plant buildup, and support the growth of fire-adapted species. The dynamic between fire, water, and life makes this ecosystem both resilient and delicate.
