Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. 23/03/09; Florida; 5,261 ha; 26°24'N 081°31'W. Located in southwest Florida, Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary contains pine flatwoods, wet prairies, cypress swamps, and marshes. The majestic 600-years-old bald cypress trees reach heights of 40m and comprise the largest remaining virgin bald cypress forest in North America. The endangered wood stork (Mycteria americana) nests high in these trees. In addition, nearly 200 species of birds including the vulnerable (IUCN) Red-cockaded Woodpecker (Picoides borealis), the critically endangered (IUCN) Florida Bonneted Bat (Eumops floridanus), and 22 species of threatened or endangered orchids live on the site. Part of the site, formerly used as a mitigation bank, covers created/restored marshes, and the area serves as a vital link between several south Florida watersheds. Nowadays, the site is use for conservation and in limited areas scientific research and tourism. The site is owned and managed by Audubon of Florida, and removal of invasive exotic species, especially of invasive plants and of wild hogs, is a continuing challenge. The Blair Audubon Center within the site serves as a model for National Audubon Society education and interpretation centers throughout the country. Ramsar site no. 1888. Most recent RIS information: 2009.