We saw two egrets cavorting together and some coots in a group a ways from the path entrance, but this isn't much of a site. It's not worth the stop--at least not in March.
I since heard that due to the hurricanes Eco Pond was badly affected. It was rather hot when we arrived and that didn't make walking around in the heat too attractive. Visually, the area was not as appealing as prior reviews stated.
At first you see white birds, lots of them, swimming, wading, stalking dinner in the shallows, riding the currents in the sky above. As you watch closely...bring binoculars...you notice the swimmers are huge white pelicans and as they take to the sky with 10 foot wingspans, you marvel at their grace. The waders are small ibis with curved beaks, small egrets with pointy beaks, tall egrets with yellow feet that they wiggle in the water and great white herons, wading majestically as they wait for prey. This is a short flat walk accessible for all.
I remember Eco Pond when the air was shell-pink from all the roseate spoonbills in flight. This most recent trip, we did not spot a single bird hanging out; some birds passed by overhead. Many butterflies. Some mosquitoes. Everything looked still and abandoned.
You can skip the Eco Pond, and won't really miss much. I guess its the most disappointing of all the wildlife areas in the park. Although it can vary by seasonal times, I guess.
This is a nice little walk around a large pond, if you like to see birds. We saw ospreys, lots of Black-Necked Stilts, and other interesting birds.
If you enjoy birds and wildlife, bring binoculars and camera. Definitely don't forget bug spray! Got eaten alive as soon as I stepped out of my car lol. On nature walks, I always take a little backback with essentials like sunscreen, water, snacks, maps, etc. And if you can time it, try to go when birds and wildlife more active in the morning and at dusk. Even though I visited at mid-day, there were fun wading birds and colorful butterflies to enjoy in their natural habitat. Really wanted to spot the special Roseate Spoonbill from all the gorgeous photos posted online, but it was not to be for me that fine December day. Just off the main road on your right a little past the Flamingo Visitor Center, Eco Pond provides a super easy trail for all ages to enjoy birds and wildlife in their natural habitat! I visited just before the Christmas holiday rush started, so I enjoyed the tranquil trail mostly to myself. Due to its convenient location, others walked the trail at the same time but we were spread apart enough. If it were busier with noisy kids, I would have skipped and headed to a different trail.
We got out and toured the pond. Compared to most of the other attractions in Everglades this one was a bit tame. The trail was really just a mowed grass area and the pond was very shallow. A few pretty birds, but when we were there before sunset, really not much wildlife. The pond and surrounding areas really were not that impressive. I'd only recommend if you find yourself with an hour to kill or are camping nearby.
This location had views of many birds that were nesting alongside the pond. It was great to listen to all the noises they were making communicating with each other. Several had nests and were tending to their young. The shoreline area had several water birds walking around looking for fish. Really neat!
a nice loop trail around a small pond with many interesting birds. decent explanatory signage, but even better with a Park Ranger docent!