Naturefreak on Tripadvisor recommended that we start our Everglades sojourn at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. Operated by The Audobon Society, the swamp eased us into the varied ecosystem of the area. Trees included slash pines, sable palms, and bald cypress. We were fortunate, the first bird we spotted was the multi-hued painted bunting. Further down the boardwalk we spied a great egret hiding in the tall grasses. Red-shouldered hawks flew overhead and anhingas complained noisily. Also glimpsed a black-crowned night heron.
Stopped at the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge en route to Everglades City. We were somewhat relieved that we didn't actually run into a panther. One couple avoided the trail altogether, clearly spooked by the loneliness of the setting. The church pictured is from Everglades City. We took a nice little tour of the Ten Thousand Islands. Watched a trio of bottle-nose dolphins splashing in the bay. Spun by H.P. Williams Roadside Park for our first close encounter with American alligators. Took in some strangler figs on the Big Cypress Bend/Fakahatchee Strand nature trail, a bald eagle, and a hawk diving for prey.
Had a great Mediterranean-esque dinner at Camelia's after getting caught in a downpour. Dave sang along to Buck Owens and Patsy Cline tunes while a man played guitar accompanied by the fine songstress who owned the joint.
