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Big Cypress National PreserveFlorida Panthers, one of the endangered species found within the preserve.
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Big Cypress National Preserve
Nonnative Species

One of the largest threats to natural habitats, world-wide, is the biological invasion of non-native plants and animals. Ecosystems and the habitats within them have a natural balance that can be greatly altered by the introduction of non-native species. Billions are spent annually to eradicate invasive non-native species such as zebra mussels, Brazilian pepper, melaleuca and hundreds of other introduced plants and animals. In Florida alone it is estimated that there are over 900 established non-native plant and animal species.  Not all of these species pose a major issue, but several can create ecological devastation.

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Reptiles of Concern

Airboat traveling through wet prairies.  

Did You Know?
Airboats are one of the approved ways to access remote areas of Big Cypress National Preserve. Remember all Off-Road Vehicle access requires a valid permit, and visitors operating ORVs need to know the legal areas they can operate.

Last Updated: September 03, 2009 at 14:36 EST