Step Carefully: Tiny Visitors on Sanibel

Sanibel Island is full of special gems of all kinds.

There is the flora on the island, green , lush, verdant, tropical and inviting.

There are the diversified shells decorating the beaches , beautiful, artful and unique, making Sanibel in the top three shell collecting destinations in the world.

And there are the birds of Sanibel, as we mentioned in our last post and do mention frequently.

But as exciting as bird watching on the island is, particularly in migratory months when there is an awesome fall out of warblers, this may be the most endearing time of year.

This is baby season on Sanibel.

And with careful research, planning and viewing, you may see a treat beyond belief.

Our plovers, terns and other shore birds have hatched their eggs, and tiny, fluffy bundles of joy can now be seen at specific locations.

These locations are marked with protective ropings to keep we humans from entering the nesting areas and inadvertently stepping on eggs or chicks.

But the birds can not read the signs and are now old enough to wander out from the protected areas and start exploring the beach and shore line.  The parents stay nearby, but these tiny chicks are very quick, so they are not always under the wings or eyes of the adults.

Every one walking and shell collecting on the beaches need to be aware of the presence of these puff balls.  They are adorable to view, but exceptionally difficult to see.  So walk with eyes down, with a discerning vision and with great care.

And do let us know if you see any.  Best of luck!