Ding Darling Refuge at Sanibel Island

You'll never see Florida more beautiful than in its natural, unspoiled state at the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Encompassing more than 5000 acres, this extraordinary refuge on the north side of Sanibel Island provides nesting sites for over 200 species of birds, many of them threatened of endangered, and an ecological system that is sanctuary for hundreds of species of wildlife.

Named for Pulitzer prize-winning cartoonist Jay Norwood "Ding" Darling of New York, the refuge was established in 1945 and dedicated to Darling in 1978. Darling, who spent numerous winters on Captiva, was a staunch environmentalist who once headed the U.S. Biological Survey, forerunner of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Duck Stamp program, which garnered money from licensing hunters and sportsmen, was one of his accomplishments. With the help of this program, Darling was instrumental in establishing more than 300 sanctuaries across this country. Along with his strong beliefs in conservation, Darling possessed a playful sense of humor. His cartoons captured the shellers who came to the islands in the familiar posture of the Sanibel Stoop, and you may still come across some of his lighthearted drawings in establishments on the islands.

Don't rush through this remarkable refuge. Bring along binoculars and cameras, and plan to spend an hour or two on the Wildlife Drive. Stop first at the Visitor Center, which is open Saturday through Thursday, to see the displays of wildlife in natural habitats. Volunteers are helpful with information, and you can purchase wildlife prints and books about animal life on the islands.

Once in the refuge, park the car and get out and experience first hand this unspoiled side of Florida. With binoculars in hand, climb the observation tower for a wonderous view. Explore the nature trails and walk the boardwalks through the mangroves. Be ready for encounters with herons, ibises, pelicans, or an occasional bald eagle. You may spot the colorful roseate spoonbill with its unusual flattened bill, or the elegant great egret that during mating season sports a beautiful spray of plumes. Be sharp-eyed for nesting birds and you may glimpse a family of young ones. But don't be tempted to touch-they are rigorously protected. Alligators, turtles, river otters, armadillos, and rabbits may show themselves. Native plant life is prolific and rarely seen in such natural splendor.

Open from sun-up to sundown daily except Friday, the refuge is best seen during times of low tide when large numbers of water birds are in residence, and if you can catch low tide in early morning morning or near sunset, you'll experience the soft, golden light so prized by photographers. Wildlife is most active at these times too. A fee of $5.00 is charged per car, unless you're 62 or older, then admission is free. Bikers and hikers are charged $1 per person, or $1 per family traveling together.

For a guided tour, hop aboard the tram that leaves from Tarpon Bay Center ((239) 472- 8900) at the end of Tarpon Bay Road. The driver narrates the two-hour drive, bringing attention to points of interest, identifying wildlife, and offering bits of island history as well. Canoe tours are also offered, or you can rent your own craft, either canoe or electric boat, and explore the mangrove swamps on you own.

Be sure to observe good habitat- viewing etiquette. Don't speed, don't leave evidence that you have visited, and leave refuge residents and their surroundings undisturbed.

Savor this rare experience while you're here and make it a habit whenever you're in southwest Florida. The ever-changing face of this natural habitat offers new and unforgettable sights with every visit.

For more information, call the refuge at (239) 472-1100.

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