Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
A KINDER, GENTLER WILDERNESS ENCOUNTER
While yesterday's glass-bottom boats and alligator wrestling have evolved into today's
swamp-buggy rides and manatee encounters, the question remains: just because you
cando something, does it mean you should?In Florida, everyone has an obligation to
consider the best ways to experience nature without harming it in the process.
For most activities, there isn't a single right answer; specific effects are often debated.
However, there area few clear guidelines.
Airboats and swamp buggies
While airboats have a much lighter 'footprint' than big-
wheeled buggies, both are motorized (and loud) and have far larger impacts than canoes
for exploring wetlands. As a rule, nonmotorized activities are the least damaging.
Dolphin encounters
Captive dolphins are typically already acclimated to humans.
However, when encountering wild dolphins in the ocean, federal law makes it illegal to
feed, pursue, or touch them. Habituating any wild animal to humans can lead to the anim-
al's death, since approaching humans often leads to conflicts and accidents (as with
boats).
Manatee swims
When swimming near manatees, a federally protected endangered
species, look but don't touch. 'Passive observation' is the standard. Harassment is a
rampant problem that may lead to stricter 'no touch' legislation.
Feeding wild animals
In a word, don't. Animals such as deer and manatees may come
to rely on human food (to their detriment), while feeding bears and alligators just encour-
ages them to hunt you.
Sea-turtle nesting sites
It's a federal crime to approach nesting sea turtles or hatch-
ling runs. Most nesting beaches have warning signs and a nighttime 'lights out' policy. If
you encounter turtles on the beach, keep your distance and no flash photos.
Coral-reef etiquette
Never touch the coral reef. It's that simple. Coral polyps are living
organisms. Touching or breaking coral creates openings for infection and disease.
