Big Cypress National Preserve: Where to see wildlife easily

Big Cypress National Preserve in South Florida is one of the premier destinations for wildlife viewing in the national park system. Though often overlooked by visitors who flock to Everglades National Park, Big Cypress is a very special place to visit and will not disappoint.

One of the main reasons many people visit Big Cypress is the truly amazing wildlife viewing. The preserve is home to 35 species of mammals, including the critically endangered Florida Panther. For all of you birders out there, you will be hard-pressed to find a better place to add to your life list. There are 190 species known to visit Big Cypress. And of course, reptiles. It seems like alligators are everywhere.

For many visitors, Big Cypress is a drive-through park along the Tamiami Trail on their way to the Everglades. Nothing wrong with that, but make sure you at least make one stop to enjoy the wildlife.

The Oasis Visitor Center is great for wildlife viewing

If you are tight on time and need an easy spot to see as much wildlife as possible the Oasis Visitor Center is the perfect spot for you. There is a boardwalk directly in front of the V.C. The best time for seeing wildlife is pretty much always close to sunrise and sunset, but here you are likely, to essentially, always see something.

Every time I visit, the place has been packed with alligators. Some of which were absolutely huge! While the gators are awesome and it’s what most people are most excited to see, I highly recommend bringing a pair of binoculars and bird watching.

Birding

The boardwalk area is only a couple hundred yards long but is swarming with flocks of birds. Look out for great blue herons in the water, staying perfectly still waiting for their next meal to swim by. Double-crested cormorants can be seen diving underwater searching for fish. Look for anhinga’s with their wings spread sunning themselves high in tree branches. Green herons, great egrets, snowy egrets, and many other species may be spotted.

If you have a little extra time, take a stroll on the famous Florida Trail. The southern terminus of the trail is located at the Oasis Visitor Center. The VC is worth a visit also. There are various displays, a film, and other educational materials available.

If your schedule is flexible, consider staying at one of the campgrounds located throughout the preserve and tailor-made for exploring the preserve. If you are staying, make sure to drive the very scenic Loop Road. You are sure to spot a ton of wildlife along it as well.

Regardless of the amount of time you have to explore, you will not be disappointed with all Big Cypress National Preserve has to offer.