Flamingo Gardens

Located on Flamingo Road in Davie, Florida (near Ft. Lauderdale) sits south Florida's botanical and wildlife haven known as the Flamingo Gardens. This lush sanctuary contains sixty acres devoted to plants and animals. Enthusiasts of Florida's wildlife and garden lovers in general will delight in the wide array of attractions, exhibits and special collections maintained at the Flamingo Gardens.

Bird watchers from all climes will want to visit the Everglades Free Flight Aviary located in the Flamingo Gardens. Over 25,000 square feet are dedicated to this rare collection of wading birds - one of the largest in the nation. The area is additionally filled with native species of plants making for a subtropical garden in keeping with nature. See lovely and graceful birds such as herons, ibis and egrets set in their natural habitats. Another attraction devoted to birds is the Bird of Prey Center that protects many at-risk species.

Of course, the namesake of the place is also a gem of the gardens - Flamingo Island is a refuge for these gorgeous birds that turn pink after dining on their favourite meal of shrimp. These birds can be viewed amidst turquoise cascades beautiful natural scenery.

The Flamingo Gardens provides a sanctuary for more than birds, however. The popular alligator lagoon features these dangerous reptiles of Florida in educational programming. Visitors marvel at the collection and learn much about these ancient creatures. The Flamingo Gardens also showcases habitats for bobcats and river otters as well - each with an educational component that promotes conservation. The Flamingo Gardens also performs the Wildlife Encounter with daily showings. It relates how all these various animals live together in the natural habitats.

The vegetation of the Flamingo Gardens is also a main reason so many visitors flock to the area. In fact, a special Tram Tour has been organised to take visitors through the various plant ecosystems to view rain forest, wetland and grove species. The Tropical Plant House is world famous for its orchid collection but many other prized and rare hothouse plants can be seen there. The Arboretum and Xeriscape Garden equally attract many tree and garden lovers enthusiastic for south Florida's rich plant life. When visiting, be sure to visit the Citrus Collection as well; it adds great historical value to the Gardens.

The Flamingo Gardens also has many special events held on its grounds. From amphibian sales to antique and art appraisals, the landscape is the perfect place for many special events and programmes. Visit the Wray Home in December, for example, and you may get to meet up with Santa Claus. Other scheduled events include benefits, flower shows, flea markets and various ceremonies.

Keep in mind that the Florida Gardens is a not-for-profit organisation. Participate in their animal adoption programme - to help sponsor and protect one of the wildlife inhabitants. Donations and volunteers are quite important to the Gardens, but continuing to visit and support the mission of the Flamingo Gardens is also a way to help maintain the continuing work there. It is also a most enjoyable and educational place to visit.