April 23, 2018
No, the swamp isn't named "Obligatory", it's actually called Honey Island Swamp, and it's part of the Pearl River, but it seems you can't go to New Orleans without a swamp tour, so we did one and we found it quite interesting.
The Honey Island Swamp is a wide, multi-channeled river and swamp area that separates Mississippi from Louisiana. It is one of the least-altered and pristine swampland habitats in the United States. Over 35,000 acres are devoted to wildlife habitat, fishing, hunting, boating, and birdwatching.
Bald cypress trees, draped with Spanish Moss, are everywhere, along with Tupelo and Southern Pine. The Bald Cypress got its name from the fact that, although it is a true conifer, it drops its needles in the fall so it's "bald" during the winter.
The huge shallow area of a swamp creates a natural defense against flooding by allowing rainwater to slowly spread out between the trees and shrubs during the wet season. Numerous creatures find their perfect habitat here including alligators, turtles, raccoons, bears, feral boars, and many species of migratory birds.
Most tour companies use this type of boat with seats facing out - not only to guarantee a great view of the swamp, but to keep you away from the rail. For good reason.
Although he looks scary, this feral pig is almost tame because the tour operators have been present its entire life. The boat drivers remember when each pig was born, call them by name, and feed them daily. Some of the alligators have similar histories, and they are fed protein pellets regularly.
