A visit to J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island offers a convenient opportunity to see many creatures in their natural habitat. Observe various species that are protected in the refuge with minimal interference from humans. The area has one of the nation’s largest mangrove stands, which is ideal for wildlife viewing.
The refuge’s 6,400 acres (2,600 hectares) are in a major migratory bird corridor linking the continent from north to south. The area is an important nesting and feeding ground for over 245 bird species, such as spoonbills, egrets, herons and mangrove cuckoos.
Bring your binoculars and telephoto lens to spot the wildlife that often travels through. In addition to the mangrove trees, the refuge’s marshes, heavily vegetated underwater beds and hardwood hammocks all tend to attract fish, alligators and manatees.
Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling was a conservationist and a political cartoonist who signed his art as “Ding.” He became concerned with the rate of development on Sanibel Island and got the attention of U.S. President Harry S. Truman. In 1945, the Sanibel National Wildlife Refuge was created. It received its current name in 1967 to honor the conservationist.
Start your exploration at the Visitor and Education Center, which has free admission and children’s hands-on displays providing an overall description of the refuge’s features and on-going projects.
The 4-mile (6-kilometer) Wildlife Drive and other trails take you through locations where you’re almost certain to spot water birds, alligators and perhaps even a bobcat. Choose to go alone or take a guided tour on land or on water. Note that certain places are designated for only non-motorized boating.
Bring a hat, drinking water container and good walking shoes. Restrooms and water bottle filling stations are located at regular intervals. The center is closed for most holidays, but Wildlife Drive is open year-round, except Fridays.
Drive to J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island from Cape Coral in about 40 minutes. Dogs on leash are permitted.
