Sanibel Island - J. N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge - Florida (1 Viewer)

Hi All,

This weekend (4/12/08) we went out to the J. N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island. We arrived at about noon and low tide was about 1:30. Low tide is the perfect time to go bird watching as they typically are more actively looking for food.

Over 4 hours we saw pelicans, spoonbills, woodpeckers, cardinals, herons, cat birds, and one bird we are not sure of (pics 4,5). There were also cute raccoons, lizards, crabs, gators and more.

What we really like about Ding Darling is that you can drive it. It gets really hot even this time of year and the quick cool off in the AC helps. It's about 5 miles and all along the way you can park and get out and explore further. They have several 1/3 to 2 mail tails that you can walk into the mangroves and really get close the wildlife.

My wife and I do Sanibel Island Photography (wedding and portrait) so I thought it appropriate to post to the "Local Patch". On our link we have some other suggestions for a full day on Sanibel, but here I stuck with the bird report.

Keep in mind Ding Darling is closed on Friday to give the birds rest... I hope you enjoyed the post and I would be happy to answer any questions.

4 & 5 are Yellow Crowned Night Heron

Your so lucky living on the doorstep to Sanibel. We were booked for a 28 day holiday there in Jan but but had to cancel 3 days before due to illness. Keep the photos coming just to show me what we missed. Nice pics you got there.
Jim

Thanks Periwinkle!

Yes, Jim we really are blessed. Sanibel is a great place for wildlife and vacationing. The only thing that can get a little old about southwest Florida is the heat...

I will have to send some details about Fort Myers and Everglades spots. I don't know that any can top the photography opportunities of Sanibel, but still very enjoyable.

Here are two more bonus pictures from the Sanibel Island "B roll" this weekend.

Nice pictures. I'm assuming that you know what the bottom two pics are of, but i'll tell you anyways just in case. 1. Red-Bellied Woodpecker 2. Great-Crested Flycatcher (99% sure)