COASTE | OCT - NOV 2015

mangrove ecosystem in the United States.

everyone out into nature, to enjoy our nature.

But that was then, and this is now at the Wildlife Refuge: more than 800,000 visitors annually, one of TripAdvisor’s most popular Sanibel attractions, the very first “discover nature” downloadable,

“We have 245 species of birds, another 50-some reptiles and amphibians, plus more than 30 types of mammals. For $5 per vehicle, you can visit as many times as you like during a day. This is definitely the best value on the islands!”

interactive app created by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, live video feeds of wildlife via internet, a new and improving Visitor Center, a mascot

“We have 245 species of birds, another 50-some reptiles and amphibians,

Toni Westland has worked at “Ding” Darling for 14 years, and is amazed at the evolution of the Refuge from simply a welcome center and five mile

plus more than 30 types of mammals.”

named “Blue Goose,” 18,000-plus social media followers and — in high season — more than 30 events, exhibits and other fun things to do each week. “‘Ding’ Darling is exciting!” says Toni Westland, Supervisory Refuge Ranger. “People come to Sanibel for our beaches, but we want to get

wildlife viewing trail to a high tech, high energy, fun filled destination that — by design of its leadership and its fundraising partner, the “Ding” DarlingWildlife Society— is focused on educating children and adults in wildlife conservation and preservation.

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