Today we had the opportunity to visit the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary near Naples, Florida. Florida has been experiencing a lengthy drought and it has impacted this incredible haven. Having visited this same place twenty years ago, one can see the effects of a water shortage.
Despite the loss of precipitation, wildlife abounds. The two mile walk on a boardwalk traverses palm and fern laden grounds. Cypress trees dot the landscape and flowers occasionally are spotted. It is a curious place to 
visit, and each season brings different flowers, plants and animals.
visit, and each season brings different flowers, plants and animals. 
This sanctuary is operated by the Audubon Society. Located northeast of Naples, it is off the beaten path, but well worth the visit if one travels to Florida. It can easily be visited while staying in Fort Myers and Naples. For more information, visit http://www.corkscrew.audubon.org/
While the Naples area is barely recognizable from a visit twenty years ago, the sanctuary has maintained its tranquil feeling and natural habitat. Naples is no longer a sleepy town with an incredible beach. It now boasts shopping centers, restaurants and high rise condos. While the trendy tourist might pay over $200 a night for a room at the Holiday Inn, anhingas, turtles and alligators are living rent free at Corkscrew. This is truly a contrast 
in lifestyles. 
in lifestyles. 
