The area receives over 55 in. Water accumulates on the surface because the porous limestone floor has been sealed by peat deposits formed by decomposing vegetation. Evaporation and drainage to the Gulf of Mexico regulate the water level. The Everglades support a unique pattern of vegetation characterized by plains of saw grass and thick hummocks of pine, cypress, and mangrove trees. The mangrove may grow as high as 70-80 ft.
Animal life includes alligators, manatee, and cougars.
Birdlife is plentiful and varied, including herons, ibis, kites, and turkey vultures. The park is the home of many rare species, such as the Florida panther. A unique ecological system, the Everglades are under threat from 100 years of dredging, draining, and land clearing. A major rescue effort has begun, involving primarily the restoration of natural watercourses throughout the Everglades.