The Unique Ecosystem of the Everglades

The Everglades stands out as a vital ecosystem, largely due to its semi-tropical climate, which supports a variety of bird species not found elsewhere in the United States. Ecologist Paul Gray highlights the Everglades snail kite, a raptor that exclusively feeds on snails, underscoring the rich biodiversity of the area. The unique conditions of the Everglades allowed for massive wading bird rookeries historically, which were supported by the region's fluctuating water levels that concentrated fish and other food sources during breeding seasons. This natural phenomenon made the Everglades one of the most significant habitats for bird life in the world, attracting both professional ornithologists and casual bird watchers alike.