description Florida Everglades Overview
The Florida Everglades is a vast tropical wetland ecosystem covering approximately 11,000 square miles in southern Florida. This slow-moving river system hosts unique biodiversity including American alligators, Florida panthers, and numerous wading bird species. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, the Everglades face ongoing environmental challenges from urban development, agricultural runoff, and water management practices that have altered natural flow patterns.
insights Ranking position
Florida Everglades ranks #5 of 634 in the Marsh ranking, behind Wadden Sea, ahead of Kakadu Floodplains.
help Florida Everglades FAQ
What types of animals live in the Florida Everglades?
The ecosystem is famous for its massive population of American alligators, as well as the critically endangered Florida panther. It is also the only place in the world where alligators and crocodiles coexist in the wild.
Why is the Florida Everglades often called a "River of Grass"?
Conservationist Marjory Stoneman Douglas coined the term in her 1947 book to describe the slow-moving, shallow water flowing through the sawgrass marshes. The water actually moves at an almost imperceptible speed of about half a mile per day.
When did the Florida Everglades become a National Park?
Everglades National Park was officially dedicated and established in 1947 by President Harry S. Truman. It was later designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979 due to its unique biodiversity.
What is the biggest threat to the Florida Everglades ecosystem?
Urban development and agricultural runoff severely disrupt the natural water flow from Lake Okeechobee. Massive restoration efforts, such as the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan, are ongoing to reverse this ecological damage.
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