Ding Darling Natl Wldlf Refuge

Category: Parks & Wildlife Refuges

The expansive Ding National Wildlife Refuge's 6,354 acres encompass half of Sanibel Island and offers something for every outdoors and wildlife lover. Hiking trails, a driving route, tram, and canoe and kayak rentals make the Ding National Wildlife Refuge a perfect place for scenic outdoor activities, while the interpretative center and guided nature walks are available to visitors intent on learning about Florida's natural and diverse animals and ecosystems. Alligators, roseate spoonbills, ospreys, manatees, bobcats, and river otters are just a few of the 32 different types of mammals, 50 different kinds of reptiles, and an amazing 230 species of birds that make the refuge their home. Don't miss a climb up the observation tower to get an osprey's-eye view of this natural marvel.

Start in the state-of-the-art, free Education Center to learn about the birds, alligators, and habitat in this amazing refuge. To best understand the wetlands environment, buy the CD at the Education Center bookstore to listen to as you drive the 4-mile Wildlife Drive. Tram tours through Tarpon Bay Explorers, the official refuge concession, are even better. If you're driving through, make sure you get out of your car to walk some trails. You can also bike through, which puts you even closer to nature. Or kayak with Tarpon Bay Explorers to see the refuge from another angle.