The Everglades By: Alex Rofick-Williams

Florida Everglades The Everglades are marshy swamp land in Florida. There is lots of reptilian wild life. It’s like a maze of water and plants. The Everglades is comprised of more than 100 marsh species that live in water all or much of the year. Its most well-known wetland plant is sawgrass, a normally hearty grass- like species that has formed thousands of acres of marshes. It homes panthers, snakes, and alligators.

Crocodiles American crocodiles are well-armored with tough, scaly skin. They are gray- green or olive-green with long, slender snouts, which distinguish them from their cousin, the alligator. Also unlike the alligator, the fourth tooth on the bottom jaw of the American crocodile is visible when its mouth is closed. South Florida is the only place where you can find both crocodiles and alligators. An American crocodile's diet consists mainly of small fish, invertebrates, reptiles, birds and mammals. Once hunted intensively for their hides, today, loss of habitat to human development, illegal killing and road kill are the greatest threats faced by American crocodiles. As sea level rises due to climate change, a significant portion of crocodiles’ coastal wetland habitat may face saltwater incursion or inundation.

Cottonmouth Snake The Cottonmouth snake, or is one that many refer to by names such as the Water Moccasin, or a combination of variations: Cottonmouth Moccasin, Highland Water Moccasin, and North American Water Moccasin. The explanation for its name is the bright white lining of the mouth that it displays as a warning to predators and prey alike. Cottonmouth snakes forage by ambushing, actively searching for, and hunting their prey. These snakes commonly eat dead animals as a source of nourishment. Their diet varies, although they rely heavily on fish. They eat small alligators, toads, birds, snails, and bird eggs. They also feed on smaller snakes, including their own species. Juvenile cottonmouth snakes have the ability to attract potential prey by moving their tail, luring their prey closer. In the comment field below, please refrain from writing that you have wounded or killed a Cottonmouth. It is discouraging and unnecessary.