A Blast of Red

Swamps are dark places. Black gums, cypresses and tupelos tower above the dark tannic water, shutting out all but the few rays of sunlight that manage to break through the thick canopy and cut through the shadows. In the interior of the swamp, inky, shallow water flows slowly under the giants, meandering between the buttressed trunks, snags and cypress knees. The animals that dwell in this darkness are cautious and stealthy. Otters swim in graceful silence, always hunting, and beavers work to maintain this realm of wetness. Raccoons and possums search the tree islands for meals while mink busily hunt every corner of the swamp, above and below the black water. But the hunters are also the hunted. From above, owls watch patiently and bobcats drift like shadows through the undergrowth.

In this world of shadows and decay, vibrant colors are a disadvantage. Here, life is painted in earthy tones, but occasionally a rare blast of color interrupts the muted palette. Against a backdrop of Spanish moss, a gorgeous cardinal flower blazes.

Schedule your ecotour to explore this environmental wonderland.