All About Gators At Gatorpalooza In Orlando This Weekend

If you are fascinated with Florida's most famous reptile, you have to put this event on your radar. It's all about gators at Gatorpalooza in Orlando this weekend. It is the fourth annual event and it takes place at Gatorland Saturday and Sunday. Gatorland is the self-proclaimed "Alligator Capital of the World" and it's a long time Florida tourist attraction.

I remember going to Gatorland as a little girl and was fascinated by the gigantic reptiles. We walked across bridges over ponds that were teaming with alligators. One thing I can't forget is their huge menacing mouths with sharp teeth chomping down on whatever food the staff was tossing to them. Since that time the park has grown and changed into an even more iconic Florida attraction.

Gatorland is a 110-acre theme park combining Old Florida charm with exhibits, entertainment and experiences. There is a breeding mash, an observation tower, aviary, nature walk, petting zoo, and live shows. In addition, for the adventure seekers, there is a zip line experience and an off-road adventure. The wildlife park has been attracting visitors for 74 years.

This is the fourth year for the festival that takes the celebration of the Florida alligator to another level. “Gatorland is filled with more alligators than any other attraction in Florida, but it’s also filled with crazy “Florida-Style Entertainment,” too," says Mark McHugh, President and CEO of Gatorland. The entertainment includes the 3rd Annual Florida Man Challenge. Participants race through a real swamp swarming with alligators. However, they do so while in a giant inflatable Zorb ball. So Florida.

In addition to the death defying stunts, there are educational experiences, games, and fun for the entire family. Finally, it can't be a real Florida festival without lots of food and music. Gates open at 10am and the party goes until 5pm both Saturyda and Sunday.

Florida Endangered Species List Is Now Up To 39 Species

Everglades National Park is home to a number of threatened and endangered plant and animal species. Some of the best known of these are the Florida Panther, American Crocodile, American Alligator, West Indian Manatee, Wood Stork, and Snail Kite.

Florida now lists 39 species as endangered or threatened.  Most of the species might be found in Everglades National Park.  These species are all listed under the Endangered Species Act of 1973.  These species include 8 plants, 6 invertebrates, 3 fish, 9 reptiles, 10 birds and 3 mammals.

The plants, not pictured here, include Blodgett's silverbush, Pineland sandmat, Garber's sandmat, Cape Sable thoroughwort, Florida prairieclover, Twospike crabgrass, Everglades bully, and the Florida bristle fern.