The great Okefenokee Swamp is the largest intact, fresh-water and black water wilderness swamp in North America. Endangered species and endangered habitat often go hand-in-hand. Okefenokee’s longleaf pine forests shelter gopher tortoises, eastern indigo snakes, Bachman’s sparrows, and red-cockaded woodpeckers. Trees with white paint rings indicate cavity trees of these endangered woodpeckers, and are visible along the entrance road and Swamp Island Drive. Gopher tortoises dig burrows under or near the entrance road as well, where they graze in spring and summer. Where there’s water, there are alligators.  If you look closely you may even hear or see babies. Keep your distance – Mama Gator is a very protective parent! 

We will be looking especially for Red-cockaded Woodpeckers, Blue-headed Vireos, and Rusty Blackbirds.

Bring binoculars, drinks, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, sturdy walking shoes, and a hat if desired.