Unit 2: Lesson 8

Ranger Jim said they could help by conserving water, even when brushing their teeth or washing their faces, because most of the water used in southern Florida comes from the Everglades.

With responsible water conservation, the Everglades Restoration Plan could, over the next thirty years, restore a healthy balance so all living things—plants, animals, and people—will be able to live side by side in the only Pa-hay-okee, "Grassy River," in the world.

Anhingas hold out their wings to thermoregulate (thur moh REHG yuh layt), or regulate their body temperature, by soaking up the sun's energy to keep their bodies warm.

The floor of the Pinelands is covered with cabbage palms, marlberry bushes, blue porter flowers, and other vegetation that help absorb sounds from the outside world.

In the distance an egret stood in the sawgrass, and a flock of endangered wood storks flew overhead.

They knew that someday in the not-too-distant future, responsibility for the Everglades would pass on to them.

These holes are places for alligators to cool off while they wait for a meal of the small animals that are attracted to the water-filled holes.

The mangrove trees have specially adapted roots and leaves so they can live in this salty, muddy water.

These differences in moisture help create unique habitats, each with its own special set of plants and animals.

They would become the guardians and protectors of the only Everglades in the world, helping this wild and wonderful place go on forever.