Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge Trail

J.N. ‘Ding’ Darling National Wildlife Refuge protects over 6,400 acres of mangrove forest, seagrass beds, and tropical hardwood hammocks on Sanibel Island, creating one of the finest birding destinations in the United States. The refuge’s trail system includes the popular Indigo Trail through mangrove and tropical hammock habitats, while Wildlife Drive provides vehicle or bicycle access to prime viewing areas. Roseate spoonbills, reddish egrets, white pelicans, and hundreds of other species feed and nest throughout the refuge, with peak viewing during winter and early spring. The refuge honors Jay Norwood ‘Ding’ Darling, a Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist and conservationist who pioneered the duck stamp program. Low tide periods concentrate wildlife along the shores, creating optimal viewing conditions.