The conelike structures protruding from the ground and water are called cypress knees. They grow upward from the wide spreading root systems of the cypress. Although many theories have been advanced, the function of knees still is unknown. Early Americans thought knees would sprount into young trees. Later it was believed that they supplied roots with oxygen, but trees with knees removed continue to thrive. Whatever other functions they may have, they provide additional support in the unstable soil. The tremendous root systems interlock with those of other trees, forming a dense mat of shallow roots and reinforcing each other. There seems to be a correlation between depth of water and height of knees, because the growths range from five feet tall in the deep creeks to only a few inches along the hills.
Cypress knees are important to the rest of the community. They serve as bases for such water-intolerant plants as Virginia willow and poison ivy. Hollow knees are favorite nesting sites for the prothonotary warbler. During spring and summer, these little yellow "swamp canaries" can be seen flitting from bush to bush along the boardwalk. In spring the males' calls of "sweet, sweet, sweet" are heard everywhere as they establish territories and build nests in preparation for the arrival of the females.
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