Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge: an American Safari

PSA Journal, Sept, 2004 by Robert Nguyen

My pilgrimage to Ding Darling was photography. But having been there and also in East Africa, I feel increasing love and respect for these wonderful creatures, which are our true cousins on this blue planet. Since the days at Ding-Darling, I wake up mornings with the birds that are full of activity in my backyard. While in the state of semi-consciousness getting connected with reality again, my mind hovers over the swamp of Sanibel.

And for photographers, who want to fly there and shoot these beautiful subjects, you can just "follow the birds." When it is cold in the North from November to April, they are in Florida. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge is the favorite spot for the birds to spend the cold winter. Alas, around February 1st is the best time for photographers to "shoot" the birds, and then hotels charge two or even three times the usual rate. But luckily, to fly there is a bargain in winter. Tampa is a major airport, just two hours drive to Ding Darling NWR. Remember that the birds are active in the morning and evening, and these times are also best for photography. Be the first to enter the reserve when it opens and the last to leave in the evening, and you will go home a changed and happy person.

If you venture to Florida for this experience, please wave to the pelican as you cross the bridge from Fort Meyers to Sanibel, where Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge is located. And don't forget to say "hi" to all the birds for me!

Robert Nguyen,

M.D.

Madera, CA