Description:
This pristine island hearkens back to a time when the Keys were still undeveloped. More than 65 species of trees and shrubs grow in the tropical hardwood hammock and fringing mangrove forest, including gumbo limbo, mahogany, and blue-flowered lignum vitae tree. The island is accessible only by private boat or by tour boat from a nearby marina. All visitors must join a ranger-led walk; no private exploration is permitted.
Watchable wildlife:
Many species of butterflies are found in the hammock, as well as three varieties of colorful, Liguus tree snails. Birders will enjoy seeing white-crowned pigeons, brown pelicans, ospreys, double-crested cormorants, gulls, terns, and migratory warblers. In the summer and fall, look for black-whiskered vireos and mangrove cuckoos. Great white herons are sometimes seen wading the flats nearby.
Ownership:
Department of Environmental Protection Contact:
(305) 664-2540
Directions:
U.S. Highway 1. The state tour boat leaves from Indian Key Fill (Mile Marker 79.5) on U.S. Highway 1 when in operation.
Related Sites:
Other South East Florida Wildlife Sites
Florida State Parks
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