I had a great experience at the first field trip to the Corkscrew Sanctuary. As a native to southwest FL., I was really surprised at how much information I gained at this trip. Examples of the historic knowledge I gained was how the same women of the north who had purchased and worn the rare feathers of the egrets on their hats were the ones that started the drive to preserve the wet lands of south and protect the native birds. The National Audubon society was put into place in southwest FL. to protect this land back in the 1950's because of the vast majority of poachers who hunted these birds, who were facing extinction. Some brave men even gave their lives protecting this land and the animals in it. Another very interesting fact was that the Corkscrew Cypress Rookery Association purchased this land to protect it from lumber companies. The association even paid the lumber companies for each tree they would have cut down. I thought this was truly amazing that an association would pay a lumber company just to not cut down the trees.
Before this field trip I did have some knowledge about the habitats and animals in the southwest FL area, but was very excited to learn even more information about why these animals actually live here and how they survive. Another interesting fact was that the pines and sable palms thrive in the dry areas and the cypress trees thrive in the wet lands. A very good examples of this was the difference in elevation where there was a gap between the cypress and pines which looked like an empty field. This must be a perfect place for hawks and predators to hunt for food.
I had an excellent time at the sanctuary extending my knowledge about the southwest FL area and habitats. I also thought our guide was very informative and happy to teach use about the area. Hats off the people that made this area so special and great for the rest of us to learn about.
Photo Provided by lifeinbonitasprings.com
No comments:
Post a Comment