Everglades Patrol

"Offers some wonderful descriptions that I've never read of the richness of the wildlife before the 1950s. It's a page turner."—Jack E. Davis, author of An Everglades Providence



"This excellent book consists of two tales: one, the first-hand action adventure story of Florida game wardens airboating across the vast Everglades in pursuit of poachers; the other, observations on the political and flood-control engineering decisions and actions that resulted, sadly, in water quality and wildlife degradation. I highly recommend Everglades Patrol on both counts."—Patricia Caulfield, author and photographer of Everglades



"Offers rare insight into the dangers, thrills, and uncertainties of resource management when people and politics collide. Tom Shirley writes with sincerity and dedication about the wildlife he pledged to protect over fifty years ago."—Laura Ogden, coauthor of Gladesmen: Gator Hunter, Moonshiners, and Skiffers



"A must-read for any person truly interested in the Greater Everglades Ecosystem. Tom's book allows the reader to gain a better understanding of how important the Everglades are to sportsmen and society."—Jack Moller, officer, Florida Wildlife Federation

"In his 30 years patrolling the Everglades, former wildlife officer Tom Shirley saw his share of panthers and poachers. But it's his tales of tangling with alligators that really gets your skin crawling. . . . When it comes to the Everglades, few people share Shirley’s knowledge and perspective."—Tampa Bay Times



"Very well written and supremely engaging, yet informative at the same time. . . . If you are looking for a truly outstanding game warden memoir . . . you will not be disappointed in this one."—International Game Warden Magazine



"Shirley describes the wetlands and the residents' activities with a crystal-clear memory, gently inviting his readers to enter that forgotten and mysterious world."—Florida Book Review

"Packed with memories of armed confrontations, long stakeouts, tough-talking characters and frantic pursuits."—Florida Historical Quarterly