Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve - November 5, 2023

 Kay, Kathy, Michael and I had a full day with an air boat tour out of Everglades City followed by a driving tour deep into Big Cypress National Preserve. We saw plenty of 'gators'

Everglades City

Ibis

The swamps went on forever. There was little dry land in this part of Florida,

Ten Thousand Islands, South West Florida - November 4, 2023

 We caught a boat on the beach in front of our Marco Island Resort and headed out among these flat, Mangrove covered, islets to do some sea shell collecting and to observe some of the resident dolphins. It was a very interesting environment.

The intrepid travelers waiting for their ride

Recent hurricanes had killed these mangroves on the seaward side of many of the islands.

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary - November 3, 2023

 This Audubon administered preserve protects the largest remaining stand of bald cypress in North America. This was our first explore with Michael and Kathy on our Florida trip.

Wet Prairie and Pond Cypress

Bald Cypress

Central Marsh