"The refuge was established to safeguard and enhance the wildlife habitat of Sanibel Island, to protect endangered and threatened species, and to provide feeding, nesting, and roosting areas for migratory birds. The refuge is part of the largest undeveloped mangrove ecosystem in the United States and is world famous for its spectacular migratory bird populations. In 1967, the refuge was renamed for conservation pioneer Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling, who was instrumental in its founding. More than 40 percent of the refuge is Congressionally designated wilderness."
If you look closely, you may spot an alligator.
Perhaps this cropped shot will help.
That's my husband on the walkway, can you see
the alligator hopefully floating beneath the bridge?
The Ding Darling Refuge alligator, Sanibel, Florida, is my Saturday Critter. Thank you to the host Viewing Nature with Eileen.
Hello,
ReplyDeleteDing Darling is one of my favorite places to visit in Florida. Great captures of the gator and your husband.
Thank you for linking up and sharing your post. Take care, happy Sunday! Have a wonderful week! PS, thank you for leaving me a comment.
Isn't the name Ding Darling fun to say? The island has a way to go still, but it is a happy sight to see the progress they've made. We are planning to go back again next Spring. We love Sanibel.
DeleteGreat photos. I spotted it and I think I see the tail in the last photo! Not something we have over here! Just in zoos. :-D
ReplyDeleteAnanka, not something we see much out of zoos in our area, unless it is the rumor that they live in city sewers in the Northeast of the U.S. It's awesome to see one, because like you, we only see them in zoos.
DeleteI've never been to that part of Fl but I would love to go and see all the birds and critters! What a wonderful habitat! Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteMore than half of the island is set aside as natural refuge. Thanks for taking a look.
DeleteGreat alligator!
ReplyDeleteI’ve only been to Ding Darling once, and it was wonderful. Wish I could get back there, but the relatives who lived in Florida have all left so we probably won’t go there. But surprises happen!
Nice post… mae at maefood.blogspot.com
Thanks Mae, I hope you can get back. The island is coming back strong. It's a lovely place.
DeleteThe alligator had scared me a lot! Beautiful pictures!
ReplyDeleteIt would be scary without the fencing.
DeleteDid spot the alligator!
ReplyDeleteThey are very silent and stealthy.
Delete