In Search of the Ghost Orchid

Today, we decided to take our exchange students to Corkscrew Swamp Wildlife Sanctuary in Collier County, Florida. Our plan was to walk the boardwalk and enjoy the varied ecological habitats. We also hoped to see some birds and aligators as well as the endangered Ghost Orchid. When we arrived, we were very excited to hear from one of the rangers that the Ghost Orchid was blooming and a telescope was set up on the boardwalk for viewing the orchid.










Up in this tree about 50 feet from the boardwalk is the Ghost Orchid. We would have never seen it if it wasn't for the telescope. It really was amazing! It is called Ghost Orchid because it has no leaves just roots. So, when the orchid blooms, it appears as if it is floating. Very interesting.

For more information about the Ghost Orchid, visit http://www.corkscrew.audubon.org/Wildlife/GhostOrchid.html

Sadly, we did not see many birds or gators on our trek. It was very hot and, unlike us, they were staying cool undercover. To finish our day, we stopped at RJ Gators in the Gulf Coast Town Center Mall and enjoyed some gator tail appetizers. A real treat for Enzo and Willy who thought we were kidding when we told them we were going to eat alligator!

All in all, it was a wonderful day. A day to enjoy nature (God's handiwork),
Elizabeth