Biscayne National Park consists of 173,000 acres, 95% of which is covered by water. The park was designated in 1968 to preserve a rare combination of amphibious, terrestrial and marine life. The tropical setting of the park offers picturesque beauty to visitors.
The park is located on Biscayne Bay. Mangrove Forest stretches for miles. Coral reefs were left when sea levels dropped. Islands have no bridges or roads and allow visitors a glimpse of what the Florida Keys were like before they were developed. Biscayne is home to the third longest coral reef in the world. It is the natural habitat to over 200 species of marine plants, fish and animals.
The land and submerged lands of Biscayne are rich in cultural and archeological remains, which include submerged shipwrecks. The oldest sunken ship discovered in Biscayne’s waters dates back to the 18th Century. Europeans first started exploring the area in the 16th Century. The shipwreck and other submerged archeological sites are listed in Florida’s Register of Historical Places.
Inside the park’s boundaries are many endangered species. These include the West Indian Manatee, the American Crocodile, Bald Eagles, Peregrine Falcons, several species of turtles and the Schaus Swallowtail Butterfly.
There are hundreds of bird species that call the park home. Rare birds include the Greater Flamingo, the Wood Duck, the Scarlet Ibis and the American White Pelican. Bird watchers flock to the area to pursue their favorite hobby.
The Florida Keys is a group of 42 tropical islands. Elliott Key is the largest and is the first island of the true Florida Keys. The islands are remains of coral reefs, which were formed while still under water.
Near the shore of the islands, mangroves, glasswort and other plants that are able to tolerate the salt water can be seen. As you move inland, plant species change. Here you will see mahogany, ironwood and hemlock. These are not found anywhere in the Continental United States except southern Florida.
Insects are abundant. Orb spiders, mosquitoes and dragonflies thrive in the tropical climate. This area is the natural habitat for the Schaus Swallowtail Butterfly, which is on the Endangered Species List. Raccoons, marsh rabbits, rodents, rattlesnakes and lizards can also be spotted on occasion.
Long before Europeans arrived in the area, the Tequesta People established fishing and hunting camps on the islands. Their main camp was located at the mouth of the Miami River, where the city of Miami stands today.
