The Everglades are home to more wildlife than alligators.

More than 360 bird species have been recorded in Everglades National Park, attracting bird watchers from around the world. Among the most iconic are wading birds who thrive in the slow-moving River of Grass, dining on fish, frogs and snakes in a variety of habitats.

Beyond the park, there are plenty of opportunities for observing native birds in the Greater Everglades. One of the can’t-miss locations is Wakodahatchee Wetlands, a place we visit each spring for inspiring, up-close views of hatchlings.

Keep reading to learn more about three of our favorite Everglades wading birds.

Great Egret

Known for their striking breeding plumage and large size, Great Egrets also boast an impressive comeback story. Populations dwindled in the late 1800s when their plumes were sought for fashion trends, but they recovered thanks to conservationists calling for their protection.

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Anhinga

These quiet birds swim through the freshwater marshes and cypress swamps of the River of Grass in search of prey, with just their long, S-shaped necks visible above water. You’re likely to find them perched with outstretched wings as they soak up the sun.

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Wood stork

Federal endangered and threatened protections have recently been removed for this species, but that might not be a good thing. Its listing under the Endangered Species Act also protected the wetlands they call home, and habitat loss has forced the wood stork north into Georgia, North Carolina and Alabama.

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There’s real joy in seeing these iconic birds in the Everglades — the kind that makes these places worth fighting for.