[at-l] Fakahatchee Swamp

[RoksnRoots at aol.com]

         Did a couple of miles into Fakahatchee Strand in the heart of the 
swamp on a small grassy path surrounded by flooded swamp and semi-tropical 
plants. Nice breezy 79* with NO BUGS! Reached a corrugated tin camp next to a small 
pond that about 100 alligators were using as a dry season hole. Saw a couple 
of fat-backed big daddies amongst them. When you walk to the shore you hear 
dozens of big splashes while the alligators flee from their sun spots on the 
banks into the water. That's a sign of wild gators. 
 
           The path in would make a really exotic winter long distance trail 
with wet swamp on either side with leafing cypress, lichen and vine-covered 
royal palms and the usual semi tropical assortment. Lots of wading birds deep 
into the swamp forest. The royal palms in the neighborhood are clean and 
spotless. Those in the swamp have vines on them with moss, lichen, airplants etc that 
give them a rainforest look. Thought I saw a big mahogany too.

         Great to be surrounded by nothing but miles of wild exotic woods.

    




*