20 Strange Things Found in Louisiana's Wetlands

🐊Alligator nests are a common sight in Louisiana's wetlands. American alligators have made a comeback from near extinction.

🌳Cypress knees, woody projections on the water's surface, can be found throughout the swamps of Louisiana.

🌸Ghost orchids, rare and delicate flowering plants, thrive in the shaded areas around Louisiana's swamps and bogs.

🌿Spanish moss, an epiphytic plant, covers trees in the southern states, creating a distinctive Southern Gothic imagery.

🚢Sunken boats and shipwrecks can be found along the Mississippi River, revealing the area's history and past storms.

Are alligators dangerous in Louisiana's wetlands?

—While alligators can be dangerous, they generally avoid humans unless provoked. It's important to stay cautious and avoid disturbing their nests.

Why are cypress knees found in Louisiana's wetlands?

—The purpose of cypress knees is still a mystery, with theories ranging from oxygen supply to providing stability in flood-prone areas.

How rare are ghost orchids in Louisiana?

—Ghost orchids are considered endangered in Louisiana and are protected by state laws due to habitat loss and illegal gathering.

What are the practical uses of Spanish moss?

—Spanish moss has been used for insulation, mulch, packing material, and even mattress stuffing in the past.

What dangers do sinkholes pose in Louisiana's wetlands?

—While sinkholes can pose risks, they often form slowly over time. It's important to be aware of their presence, but they are not always immediate threats.

00:03Louisiana's wetlands are home to a variety of strange and fascinating things, from alligator nests to cypress knees.

02:02The wetlands are also home to ghost orchids, Spanish moss, and even sunken boats that reveal the area's history.

02:26Sinkholes can also be found in the wetlands, though they usually develop slowly over time.