Driving across the causeway from Ft. Myers to Sanibel Island not only takes you to another island, it transports you to an entirely different ecosystem. J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, which takes up the northern coast of Sanibel Island, is one of the only places in the United States where you can experience a Mangrove ecosystem on subtropical barrier islands. The refuge is a must-see for bird-watchers, ecotourists and anyone enthralled by the beauty of nature.
More reminiscent of an expedition down the Amazon than a simple drive from the city, a hike or boat ride through Ding Darling leads you through dense canopies of gnarly trees that create a sheltered haven for birds, fish, reptiles and other rare wildlife to live and flourish in an untainted habitat.
Bird watchers from all over the world flock to Ding Darling for it’s famous migratory bird population. Visitors often catch sight of such extraordinary birds as the Roseate Spoonbill, the Great Blue Heron, the Belted Kingfisher, the White Ibis, and the Brown Pelican. Bring your binoculars, because the list of birds is truly endless.
The refuge is named after Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling. A well-known conservationist in his own right, Darling was appointed by president Franklin Roosevelt as head of the U.S. Biological Survey and founded the National Wildlife Federation in 1936. Today, his namesake refuge is the umbrella for a host of smaller wildlife refuges, many of which are only accessible by boat.
Despite its rugged appeal, Ding Darling is visitor-friendly and has activities for all ages and abilities. The visitor center has interactive exhibits and media where you can gain in-depth knowledge of the refuge’s flora, fauna and landscape. Depending on where you go within the refuge, exploring is possible by car, bike, boat or on foot. The scope of the adventure is up to you!
For specific hours and information on Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, visit www.fws.gov/dingdarling.
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