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The Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge is a 26,400-acre preserve established to protect the Florida panther. Only 80 to 100 panthers remain in Florida, making this one of the rarest and most endangered mammals in the world.
The refuge encompasses the northern origin of the Fakahatchee Strand, which is the largest cypress strand in the Big Cypress Swamp. In addition to cypress domes, the refuge is comprised of pine forests, wet prairies and hardwood hammocks. Orchids and other rare plants grow here.
Besides the panther, 24 other species of mammals, birds and reptiles found in the area are state or federally listed as threatened, endangered or of special concern. Among them are the Florida black bear, alligator, wood storks, limpkin, swallow-tailed kite, indigo snake, Everglades mink, Big Cypress fox squirrel, and river otter. White-tailed deer and feral hogs are prey for panthers.
Two hiking trails are open to the public, located north of the intersection of I-75 and S.R. 29, 25 miles east of Naples.
Visitors can obtain information on the refuge and visit a Florida panther exhibit at the refuge office in the Comfort Inn, Suite 300, Tollgate Blvd., east Naples.
The Ten Thousand Island National Wildlife Refuge, located in Collier County on the southwest coast of Florida, protects important mangrove habitats, endangered species and diverse native wildlife.
The mangrove forests dominate most tidal fringes and the numerous islands (or keys). A variety of habitats support a range of invertebrates, fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals.
Roughly 86 species of fish and 140 species of birds have been documented.
The refuge is home to several threatened and endangered species, including the American crocodile, West Indian manatee, bald eagle, and peregrine falcon, wood stork, and several types of sea turtles.
Sportfishing, wildlife observation, photography, boating and camping are permitted.
There are no roads through the refuge. One hiking trail is accessible from Tamiami Highway. The majority of the refuge, including primitive campsites on some of the islands, is accessible only by boat.
Outdoor Activities |
