J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, located on Sanibel Island, is not only a refuge for hundreds of wildlife species, it’s also a “birder’s paradise!” Yearly, it sees about a million visitors who come to observe and photograph the inhabitants of this unique ecosystem.
Surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico, San Carlos Bay and Pine Island Sound, one can only imagine the waterfowl and bird species that gather here throughout the year. My favorite is the rosette spoonbill and I simply am in awe of them. I could sit for hours and consistently be entertained…what an amazing bird! If you hit just the right time of year, you’ll be blessed to experience the wood stork. Get on your bike, hoof it by foot or drive in your car, no matter which mode of transportation you’ll enjoy most, the most important thing is to just “get here!” Bring your fishing pole, your binoculars, your kayak or canoe and make a day of it, you won’t be disappointed.
The 2-mile long Indigo Trail is open daily for exploring all the flora and fauna this little island has to offer and enables visitors to see alligators, wading birds and other wildlife. There’s the 1/3 mile Wulfert Keys Trail that takes visitors to an open view of Pine Island Sound. Also, the Shell Mound Trail has interpretive signs to inform visitors of their surroundings with almost a 2-mile Bailey Tract where you can bet on seeing alligators, herons, egrets and a myriad of other wildlife. The Education/Visitors Center with large gift shop is second to none! Amazing indigenous animals are on display (stuffed, of course!) and are surrounded by their habitat. It’s an amazing learning experience for all and best of all, the visitor’s center is FREE!
To check on refuge hours, fees and schedules, go to: www.fws.gov/dingdarling
