Frequently Asked Questions

For the courtesy of our many visitors and guests, here are answers to a number of frequently asked questions we commonly receive:

What is the best time of year to visit?

The best time of the year to take a wildlife tour in the Florida Everglades is typically during the dry season, from November to April. This period offers several advantages for wildlife tours:

Optimal Wildlife Viewing: Wildlife is more concentrated around water sources due to lower water levels, making it easier to spot a variety of animals, including alligators, birds, and other native species.
Comfortable Temperatures: The weather is cooler and more pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 70s Fahrenheit (10-25°C), creating a more comfortable environment for outdoor activities.
Reduced Mosquito Activity: The cooler and drier conditions mean fewer mosquitoes and other biting insects, enhancing the overall experience.
Clearer Trails and Waterways: Lower water levels make trails, boardwalks, and waterways more accessible, ensuring a smoother tour experience.

Our operators enjoy welcoming visitors to the park during this season to take advantage of the favorable conditions, providing an excellent opportunity for guests to see the diverse and abundant wildlife of the Everglades.

What wildlife can we expect to see on one of your tours?

On a wildlife tour in the Florida Everglades, you can expect to see a diverse range of animals. Here are some of the most commonly spotted wildlife:

Mammals

American Alligator: One of the most iconic residents of the Everglades.
Florida Panther: Though rare and elusive, there is a chance to spot this endangered species.
Black Bear: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission estimates the black bear population to be around 4,000, with Central Florida among the most densely populated.
White-tailed Deer: Often seen grazing in the grasslands.
Raccoons: Commonly spotted along trails and near water sources.
Bobcats: These shy creatures can occasionally be seen, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.

Birds

Great Blue Heron: Frequently seen wading in shallow waters.
Roseate Spoonbill: Known for its striking pink plumage.
Wood Stork: A large, distinctive wading bird often seen in marshes.
Bald Eagle: Sometimes seen soaring above the wetlands.
Anhinga: Often seen drying its wings while perched on a tree branch.
Osprey: Commonly spotted fishing in the water.

Reptiles and Amphibians

American Crocodile: Less common than the alligator but still present in the Everglades.
Snakes: Various species, including the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake and the Florida Cottonmouth.
Turtles: Including the Florida Redbelly Turtle and the Common Snapping Turtle.
Frogs and Toads: Various species, especially after rains.

Fish

Largemouth Bass: Common in the freshwater marshes.
Gar: An ancient fish often seen in shallow waters.
Tarpon: Found in the estuarine waters of the Everglades.

Invertebrates

Butterflies: Various species, especially in the hammocks and pinelands.
Dragonflies and Damselflies: Often seen near water.

The diversity and abundance of wildlife make the Florida Everglades a prime destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Each season and habitat within the park offer unique opportunities to observe different species.

What are the Shark Valley tour guides level of expertise & experience in the area?

Our tour guides possess a high level of expertise and experience in the area. Here are some aspects of their qualifications:

Knowledge and Expertise

Extensive Local Knowledge: Guides are typically well-versed in the geography, ecology, and history of the Everglades. They can provide detailed information about the various ecosystems, such as freshwater sloughs, marl prairies, mangrove forests, and coastal lowlands.

Wildlife Identification: Many guides are skilled in identifying a wide range of species, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and plants. They can share insights about animal behavior, habitats, and the roles different species play in the ecosystem.

Environmental Awareness: Guides often have a strong understanding of the environmental challenges facing the Everglades, such as water management issues, invasive species, and conservation efforts. They can discuss the importance of protecting this unique ecosystem.

Experience

Many of our tour guides have years of experience leading tours in the Everglades, as well as formal education in ecology and environmental maintenance disciplines, greatly enhancing their ability to provide educational information and to answer frequently asked questions during the tour.

Safety and Comfort: Our guides always prioritize the safety and comfort of our guests, ensuring that tours are conducted in a responsible and enjoyable manner.

Overall, our Shark Valley tour guides are highly knowledgeable, experienced, and dedicated to providing informative and enjoyable experiences for visitors while promoting the conservation and understanding of this unique ecosystem.

Ready to Schedule a Tour and Experience the Everglades Up Close?

Pay us a visit and experience one of the world’s most unique eco-systems at Everglades National Park. Take advantage of local insight offered on a guided Everglades tram tour or venture out on your own on a self-guided Everglades bike tour. Either way, you’ll be creating memories for a lifetime.