Florida National Parks and Eco-Destinations: Southwest Florida’s Top 3
Southwest Florida is an area rich in natural attractions, Florida national and state parks, nature preserves and many eco-destinations. They have more nature parks and preserves per capita than any other area in the U.S. The region has been developed, while preserving much of the natural landscape, and provides nature preserves for the native flora and fauna.
The Florida National Parks along with the state parks, wildlife and bird sanctuaries, eco-destination and nature reserves are one of the best, yet lesser known attractions in Florida. There is so much to learn and enjoy about the natural Florida environment. Even though Southwest Florida is one of the most affluent areas in the USA, it is also rich in natural environmental wonders. The green spaces are filled with Florida birds and other wildlife that offers protection for some of the most precious endangered species.
Mote Aquarium
The Mote Aquarium is located in Sarasota Florida and offers an entertaining and educational attraction to satisfy the entire family. The aquarium is home to dolphins, manatees and sea turtles. Many of the sea turtles are rescues from the fishing industry. They spend recovery time at Mote hospital. On Monday, Wednesday and Fridays, observe the shark feeding. The Seahorse Lab is a fascinating session,where you can learn about these wonderful little sea creatures. You can buy a pail of sand and sift for fossils at Fossil Creek. You may get lucky and find stingray tails and shark’s teeth to keep. Let the aquarium experts teach you about feeding and caring for all the sea critters that call the Mote their home.
Corkscrew Swamp
The Corkscrew Swamp is home to many birds and wildlife and is located in the heart of the Florida Everglades. Here you can visit the largest bald cypress forests on the North American continent. There are many well-marked habitats along the boardwalk including the pond cypress, lettuce lakes, pine flat wood and wet prairie. This swamp has nothing to do with being stagnant and still. It is a place teeming with life and beauty. Even the very sounds will put you in a state of peace and relaxation.
Ding Darling Nature Preserve
The Ding Darling Nature Preserve is located in Sanibel Island, Florida. This government-owned and managed sanctuary is run by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. The main reason for the sanctuary was created, was to protect endangered birds and wildlife. The biggest “non-developed” ecosystem of mangroves in the USA is located right here. There are many migrating birds that seek shelter and food that rest here on their long travels. They allow bicycles, cars and people walking along the eight mile winding road through the preserve. There are many trails that branch off for wonderful exploration along the road. Parking is allowed anywhere on the sides of the road to encourage the explorations of the beautiful scenery and viewing of the creatures that make the sanctuary their home.
The wonderful thing about the natural attractions in Florida is that they provide low-cost entertainment for natural lovers. When visiting Florida, be sure to take in at least a few Florida National or State parks, eco-destinations, bird sanctuaries, wildlife preserves and enjoy nature watching at its best.
