The Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge is a collection of, you guessed it, around ten thousand islands that acts as a refuge for wildlife; specifically those that depend on mangrove trees. The area protects the habitat of a richly diverse species of animals and insects, including many endangered species. There are around 200 species of fish recorded in the conservatory and the mangrove roots serve as nursery for their fingerlings and fry. Also, there are 189 documented birds that frequent the area all year round. Wading birds, shore birds, cormorants, ospreys, diving water birds are examples of birds you can spot in the area. However, the main reason why this refuge is so important is that there are notable endangered species of animals that are here; these include the Peregrine Falcon, Sea turtles and the Bald Eagle.
If you are a person seeking adventure then this place is definitely for you. The Ten Thousand Islands is a place of wild beauty, stunning, to say the least. With her thick greeneries couples with grand vistas, the inspiring natural wonders are sure to capture both the awe and delight of those willing to seek it out and appreciate it. It is located in the Collier County, around the southwest coast of the sunshine state, Florida and east of Marco Island. Covering a whopping 35,000 acres of land and water having always been protected since the refuge was established back in 1996.
The refuge can be quite the labyrinth so it is recommended for first-timers and beginners to use the kayak when touring about the area. It may be daunting at first but this natural maze offers quite the adventure with saltwater and fresh water marshes, sandy beaches, winding channels and a few shallow bays. You may also see some bottlenose dolphins, river otters and the Florida manatee. A word of advice before you leave: make sure to book your kayak and boating trip in advance to as to avoid a few minor inconveniences. Apart from boating there are trails you can explore as well. The trek may be difficult but finishing the trail is surely a milestone any adventurer can be proud of.
The reason this refuge maintains its pristine beauty is because of the efforts of the men and women behind the scenes who are passionate about protecting this green and watery habitat. The staff and volunteers are responsible for keeping all that’s in the refuge as local as possible; meaning they try to get rid of non-endemic and invasive species of plants, trees and herbs while at the same time participating in research and monitoring activities. There are also a number of organizations who do research projects in the area and are also interested in keeping the place protected. They are largely interested in the mangrove and estuary system and are doing restoration activities for the watershed north of the refuge. Patrols from law enforcement roam around the area to safeguard the migratory birds and other endangered animal species and make sure they are not hunted by poachers.
The Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge is a place of true beauty and wonder. Both the inexperienced and seasoned explorer can find joy in the discoveries that beg to be seen in this paradise. We invite you to take the time to visit and witness her incredible views. Then, at dusk head by one of the beaches and catch the magnificent sunset; not a bad way to end the day, yes?
