The Swamp
by: Gail Lang

It doesn't sound very inviting, but the Audubon Swamp Garden will amaze you. Set off from the house and the gardens, this unique swamp is one of America's newest major gardens whose stark beauty will entrance your soul.

Don't be lulled by the beauty; the swamp contains potential danger. It is not a place for children or small animals to wander aimlessly. On our last walk a huge gator rested at the edge of the water, his head laying on the walking trail. Remember to respect nature when you are enjoying its beauty. It seemed completely oblivious to all around it. It was remarkable to stand so near to an animal that represents such danger. It just lay quietly as though it were dead, although we knew that was definitely not the case. Slowly and carefully we passed by and continued on.

Following the theme of nature conservation already established at Magnolia Plantation, the Audubon Swamp Garden provides a secure haven for Lowcountry wildlife. Great blue heron, shy wood duck, snowy egret and stately anhinga are commonly spotted stalking the shallow waters. America's Dean of Ornithological Artists, John J. Audubon, wrote about being the guest of the Reverend Dr. Drayton, probably in this very swamp.

In addition to the wildlife, there are hundreds of species of colorful, year-round blooming plants along the paths and on the floating islands that dot the eerie black waters. Brilliant duck weed colors the water's surface green in places; large cypress trees reflect mirror-like in open water. Clumps of knobby cypress knees and tangled vines support ferns, bulbs and lilies. A multitude of bog plants, ornamental grasses, and colorful wildflowers as well as native and exotic shrubs subtly enhance the swamp's natural beauty. Once used as a fresh water reservoir for Magnolia Plantation's ricefields, these wetlands are fertile grounds for water oak, cypress and tupelo gum trees.

Audubon Swamp Garden promises an interesting and unique experience. In fact, you may have already unknowlingly "visited" there. Did you see "The Swamp Thing"? If you have, you've previewed the Audubon Swamp because it was filmed there. But you still have more to see. So join the visitors for a memorable encounter with nature.