Category: Island Update

Bald eagles, woodpeckers, lions, birds, and bees will take center stage this season as the 21st annual “Ding” Darling Winter Lecture Series returns to Sanibel from January 22 to April 16.

The free lecture series will feature renowned authors, photographers, conservationists, and wildlife experts sharing their knowledge and stories. Events take place twice daily at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on select Thursdays at the Visitor & Education Center of the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.

Co-hosted by the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society–Friends of the Refuge (DDWS) and the refuge, the series is made possible through generous sponsor support.

“We are honored to welcome such an impressive roll call of authors and experts,” said DDWS Executive Director Ann-Marie Wildman. “The series began in 2005 to help bring visitors back after Hurricane Charley, and it’s fitting that in its 21st year, we continue to celebrate resilience following Hurricane Ian.”

Lecture Series Highlights

• Jan. 22 – Tony Lapi, Tales of an Island Innkeeper (sponsor: Bank of the Islands)

• Jan. 29 – Kirsten Hines, Birds of Florida

• Feb. 19 – Ron Magill, The Pride of a Lion: What the Animal Kingdom Can Teach Us About Survival, Fear and Family

• March 5 – Jeri Magg, The Remarkable Women of Sanibel & Captiva

• March 26 – Paul Bannick, Woodpecker: A Year in the Life of North American Woodpeckers

• April 2 – Beekeepers Association of Southwest Florida, Live Hive & Taste: Observing Live Bees with Honey-Tasting

• April 9 – Tina Morris, Return to the Sky: The Surprising Story of How One Woman and Seven Eaglets Helped Restore the Bald Eagle

• April 16 – Charles Sobczak, The Living Gulf Coast: A Nature Guide to Southwest Florida

(Book signings follow most presentations.)

Special Experiences

• Live Hive Viewing & Honey Tasting – Get up close with bees in a sealed hive and sample a variety of locally produced honeys.

• Wildlife Photography & Storytelling – Hear from award-winning photographers who bring nature to life through their lens.

• Local History & Conservation Tales – Discover the human and natural history of Sanibel and Captiva from the voices who know it best.

Attendance & Seating

• Free admission – First come, first served.

• Early arrivals may check in for a wristband and reserve up to two seats with personal items.

• Reserved seats must be claimed 15 minutes before the lecture begins or they may be reassigned.

After each lecture, guests can browse and purchase books and other items in support of the refuge.

Event Location

J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel, FL

More Information

• Full details: dingdarlingsociety.org/lecture-series

• Sponsorship inquiries: Jeff Decker – Jeff@dingdarlingsociety.org | 310-612-4373

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It turns out that living by the sea isn’t just good for your soul—it might actually add years to your life.

A recent study from The Ohio State University College of Public Health found a clear connection between life expectancy and living near the ocean or gulf. After analyzing population data from more than 66,000 U.S. census tracts, researchers discovered that people who live within 30 miles of coastal waters tend to live at least a year longer than the national average of 79 years.

Why the Coast Wins Over Inland Waters

While proximity to water in general is often linked to better health, this study found a surprising twist:

• Coastal residents live longer on average.

• Urban residents near inland lakes and rivers—even those larger than 4 square miles—had slightly shorter life expectancies, averaging about 78 years.

Dr. Jianyong “Jamie” Wu, lead researcher, points to several likely reasons:

• Milder year-round temperatures and fewer extreme heat days

• Cleaner air and better overall environmental quality

• More opportunities for outdoor recreation

• Better transportation and infrastructure

• Higher average household incomes

• Lower susceptibility to drought

On the other hand, inland urban areas near large bodies of water often face higher pollution levels, increased poverty rates, fewer safe spaces for exercise, and greater flood risk—all factors that can negatively impact health.

The Science of “Blue-Space Living”

The term “blue space” refers to areas near water, and earlier research has already linked it to:

• Higher levels of physical activity

• Lower obesity rates

• Better heart health

But this is the first nationwide, systematic study to compare different types of blue spaces—coastal versus inland—and how they impact longevity.

“We thought any type of blue space would offer health benefits,” Wu explains, “but we were surprised to see such a strong difference. In coastal areas, people are living longer.”

Postdoctoral researcher Yanni Cao adds that the findings might even help explain broader U.S. life expectancy trends, which have recently seen slower recovery compared to other wealthy nations. She notes that environmental and social health determinants—from neighborhood design to climate conditions—play a significant role in these differences.

Florida: The Coastal Capital of the Mainland U.S.

If you’re looking to embrace the benefits of coastal living, Florida might be the ultimate destination. With the longest coastline in the continental United States, it offers more opportunities than anywhere else on the mainland to enjoy the health-boosting perks of ocean proximity.

Whether it’s the salt air, the slower pace, or the year-round access to the beach, science now confirms what coastal residents have always known—life by the water just feels better… and might last longer too.

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The group behind the Protect Captiva initiative has released a new update on its ongoing legal efforts to uphold Captiva Island’s long-established building height and density restrictions.

On July 23, the Captiva Civic Association (CCA) filed a motion for sanctions against South Seas Island Resort and its legal counsel, arguing that the resort’s recently filed lawsuit is “frivolous” and without legal basis.

“South Seas claims the CCA misrepresented the 912-unit cap outlined in the settlement agreement—specifically, that hotel units should not be counted,” the coalition explained. “However, the Circuit Court has already ruled that the 912-unit cap does include hotel units.”

This 912-unit cap stems from key legal precedents including the 1973 zoning resolution, the 2002 Administrative Interpretation, and the 2003 settlement agreement—all of which clearly counted hotel units within the overall unit limit. The judge in the original administrative hearing confirmed this interpretation, as did testimony from Lee County planning officials and even South Seas’ own chief planner.

Given these facts, the CCA has asked the court to order South Seas and its attorney to cover legal fees associated with the lawsuit. It also requested a court-ordered bond from South Seas if they intend to continue pursuing the case—arguing that such tactics are often used to financially burden communities that oppose overdevelopment.

“We believe lawsuits like this are filed to make it harder and more expensive for the public to push back against excessive development,” Protect Captiva stated. “Our legal motions aim to safeguard our mission and the generous support from our donors.”

Upcoming Hearing on South Seas Rezoning Application – August 6

Meanwhile, an important hearing is scheduled for August 6 at 9:30 a.m. at the Old Lee County Courthouse in Fort Myers. The Lee County Board of County Commissioners will review South Seas’ rezoning application, which proposes major changes to approximately 120 acres of resort land.

South Seas is seeking to rezone the property from Residential Multiple-Family, Marine Commercial, and Two-Family Conservation to Mixed Use Planned Development. The proposal would permit:

• Up to 193 multiple-family dwelling units

• Up to 435 hotel units

• Accessory uses, common infrastructure, and resort amenities

The board will consider the Hearing Examiner’s recommendation, issued on July 9 by Chief Hearing Examiner Donna Marie Collins, who recommended approval with specific conditions after multiple public hearings earlier this year.

To review the full hearing agenda, the Examiner’s report, and supporting materials, visit the Lee County website and search for LEE COUNTY HEARING.

Location:
Old Lee County Courthouse
2120 Main Street, Fort Myers, FL

The Love Sanibel Back campaign rolls into another exciting week from August 3 to 9, continuing its mission to connect the island community and support local businesses. Each week brings fresh events, exclusive offers, and new reasons to come together and show love for Sanibel.

This ongoing initiative was launched by Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church in partnership with the Charitable Foundation of the Islands, the SanCap Chamber, and the City of Sanibel. Together, these organizations are helping residents and visitors alike celebrate the island spirit and uplift the businesses that make Sanibel so special.

Highlights of the Week (August 3–9):

August 6 – Open House at CROW
Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife – 3883 Sanibel-Captiva Road
Enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at Sanibel’s renowned wildlife rehab center, along with treats and special discounts.

August 8 – Coffee, Conversation & Croissants
Sanibel Captiva Trust Company – 2450 Periwinkle Way
10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Connect with neighbors over coffee and croissants in a relaxed setting. Reservations are appreciated but not required.
RSVP: FSteger@sancaptrustco.com | ☎️ 239-472-8300

August 9 – Community Gathering at Rosalita’s Cantina
975 Rabbit Road
6:00 PM
Stop by for a casual evening with the community. Campaign buttons will be available, and the first 20 customers will receive a free reusable tote bag.

Week-Long Discounts & Freebies From:

– Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium
– J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
– Sanibel Carts

These partners are offering special perks and promotions to help you explore the best of Sanibel while supporting the local businesses that power the island economy.

Supporting From Afar?
You can still be part of the movement!
saintmichaels-sanibel.org/lsb-online

Full campaign details and event calendar:
saintmichaels-sanibel.org/love-sanibel-back

Let’s keep showing up for Sanibel—week after week.

On July 4, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) made an exciting and rare discovery during a routine biological survey—a Florida chicken turtle, the first seen on Sanibel Island since Hurricanes Helene and Milton struck in late 2024. The powerful storm surges from these hurricanes disrupted fragile freshwater habitats, leaving conservationists uncertain about the survival of this elusive species.

A Rare and Seasonal Island Visitor

The Florida chicken turtle (Deirochelys reticularia chrysea) is a freshwater species that lives in temporary wetlands and becomes dormant during dry seasons, a state known as aestivation. These turtles depend on shallow, seasonal wetlands that fill during the rainy season and are particularly rare on barrier islands like Sanibel, where freshwater sources are limited and easily impacted by saltwater intrusion.

“Chicken turtles are especially hard to find on islands like Sanibel,” explained SCCF wildlife biologist Mike Mills. “They rely on freshwater and primarily feed on crayfish, tadpoles, and fish. Their dependence on seasonal wetlands makes them extremely vulnerable to storm surges that increase salinity and disrupt their feeding grounds.”

Tracking for Conservation

Back in 2020, SCCF launched a radio telemetry study to better understand the movements and habitat needs of Florida chicken turtles on Sanibel. This research helps conservationists map out the turtles’ home range and behaviors—critical data for long-term protection efforts.

The newly discovered turtle has now been outfitted with a radio tag, making it a key participant in this ongoing study.

“Understanding the spatial ecology of a species—where it goes, how it lives—is crucial to developing effective conservation strategies,” said Mills. “This is especially true for species like the Florida chicken turtle, which are poorly understood and increasingly threatened.”

Storm Impact and Signs of Resilience

Following Hurricane Ian in 2022, salinity levels in freshwater wetlands spiked to over 20 PSU (practical salinity units)—alarmingly close to ocean water salinity (around 32 PSU). Sadly, several chicken turtles were found deceased near these wetlands, victims of saltwater exposure. The same outcome followed Hurricanes Helene and Milton, with all previously tracked turtles either found dead or lost due to transmitter corrosion from saltwater.

Yet the recent discovery of a surviving individual offers a glimmer of hope.

“This sighting suggests that at least some members of the population may have the resilience to survive extreme weather events,” Mills said. “But make no mistake—between habitat loss, road mortality, and illegal pet trade, the Florida chicken turtle remains highly vulnerable.”

A Critical Opportunity for Research and Protection

SCCF hopes that continued monitoring of this newly tagged turtle will help fill vital knowledge gaps—not just for Sanibel’s population, but for Florida’s broader conservation efforts.

“As we face more frequent and intense storms, the data we gather now will help shape how we protect these at-risk species in the future,” Mills concluded.

At its regular meeting on July 30, the Sanibel City Council approved a request from the Sanibel Historical Museum & Village to reprint 500 hardcover copies of Sanibel’s Story: Voices and Images from Calusa to Incorporation, authored by Betty Anholt. This reprint will commemorate Sanibel’s 50th anniversary, a milestone the city celebrated on November 5 of last year.

Originally commissioned by the city in the 1990s, Sanibel’s Story was first published in 1998, with a second printing in 2000. The city retains the copyright for the book, which details the island’s rich history from its Calusa roots to its incorporation as a city.

This third edition of the book will be fully funded by the Museum & Village, with no financial burden placed on the city. Pamela Miner, the Museum & Village’s Executive Director, informed the City Council in a letter that all proceeds from the reprint will support the museum’s ongoing mission to preserve, share, and celebrate Sanibel’s history.

The Museum & Village plans to handle the reprinting, marketing, and related expenses, ensuring that this timeless piece of Sanibel’s history continues to be enjoyed for generations to come.

On July 30, the SanCap Chamber celebrated the grand opening of two new businesses at The Village Shops in Sanibel with a double ribbon-cutting ceremony for Over Easy Café (OEC), including its retail sidekick The COOP, and JRod’s Surf Fish & Style.

Liza Clouse and Trasi Sharp, who took ownership of OEC in 2007, originally operated at the Olde Sanibel Shoppes. They also opened Island Paws, a pet boutique, in 2003. Both businesses became beloved spots for pet lovers, with OEC known for its dog-friendly patio and events for over two decades.

After Hurricane Ian in September 2022, many shop owners closed for renovations, with OEC among the hardest hit, suffering an 18-month closure. As part of a relocation effort, OEC has now reopened at The Village Shops, occupying the former Traders2 restaurant space.

“We love being here, especially with the higher elevation and alongside our Olde Sanibel Shoppes friends,” Clouse said. “The building had not been occupied since before Ian, and had been through three hurricanes, so there was a lot of work to do. But we were able to move in just 17 days after the closure, which is incredible.”

The new location keeps OEC’s familiar staff, menu, and pet-friendly atmosphere, with an updated look — transitioning from a farmhouse French style to a modern open urban feel. Additionally, The COOP offers OEC-branded merchandise, as well as chicken-themed and pet-inspired gifts.

Jerod Edgington, who opened JRod’s in May 2022 at Olde Sanibel, moved to The Village Shops on June 20. His shop blends surf-inspired wear with coastal lifestyle apparel.

“This new space feels perfect,” Edgington said. “It’s in a great location, surrounded by fantastic businesses, and has the classic Old Florida charm we love. It’s easier for people to find us, and we’ve become part of the vibrant community here.”

John Lai, President and CEO of the Chamber, expressed his excitement, “It’s so gratifying to see The Village Shops come to life with shoppers and diners. With OEC as a long-loved hub, the shopping center is buzzing with energy. JRod’s is a perfect fit with the island’s spirit.”

Sharp added, “The community, the chamber, and our visitors have been amazing. We’ve heard so many wonderful memories of the old location. We truly feel we are a part of island history.”

Edgington echoed the sentiment, saying, “From day one, we’ve felt so welcomed. The Sanibel community truly shows up for each other.”

Over Easy Café is located at 2340 Periwinkle Way, Unit B, Sanibel.

JRod’s Surf Fish & Style is located at 2340 Periwinkle Way, Unit H-1, Sanibel.

FISH of Sanibel-Captiva will hold its next Friendly Faces Luncheon on August 12 at 11 a.m. at The Community House (2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel).

The featured guest speaker will be David Muench, General Manager of Periwinkle Park. Muench will present on the park’s rich history, its growth over the years, and the resilience shown in the wake of Hurricane Ian. A staple of the island community for over 60 years, this family-owned campground and trailer park has weathered many storms — both literal and figurative.

“We’ve been incredibly lucky to call Sanibel home for so many years. What makes Periwinkle Park special isn’t just the property — it’s the people,” Muench shared. “After Hurricane Ian, the community came together in ways I’ll never forget. I’m looking forward to sharing a bit of that journey with our neighbors at the Friendly Faces lunch.”

The complimentary lunch will be provided each month by The Great White Grill, with FISH extending a special thank you to the Sanibel Deli & Coffee Factory for its meal partnership over the past year.

“We’re excited to welcome David and spotlight a place that holds so many special memories for islanders,” said Erika Arnowitz, FISH Senior Services Director.

Reservations are required by August 8.

For more information or to reserve your spot, please contact Erika at 239-472-4775 or erika@fishofsancap.org.

On July 18, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) successfully deployed its fifth and final satellite tag for the 2025 nesting season on a loggerhead turtle named “Belle.”

Belle joins the ranks of four other turtles that were tagged this season: MumSea, Harper, Queen Tutt, and Emory.

This season marked the first encounter between the SCCF team and Belle, despite her prior satellite tagging by the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium back in 2012.

“Our tracking portal gives the public an opportunity to follow the journeys of our tagged turtles, providing incredible insights into the behaviors of loggerheads that nest on our beaches,” said Kelly Sloan, SCCF Coastal Wildlife Director and Sea Turtle Program Coordinator. “The movement patterns of our turtles have already been quite diverse this year.”

• MumSea remains in Southwest Florida waters, having nested twice on Sanibel.

• Queen Tutt made a remarkable journey, traveling north to the panhandle before nesting again on Anna Maria Island and continuing south.

• Harper and Emory both swam south post-nesting, with Harper now settled between Cuba and the Bahamas, while Emory continues her journey.

• Belle is also heading south and has been spending time off the coast of Marco Island.

SCCF’s biologists also have access to dive data, providing deeper insights into the turtles’ behaviors.

“By studying dive depth and duration, we can better understand foraging habits, including key feeding areas, foraging strategies, and energy usage,” Sloan explained. “We can also analyze how factors like water temperature influence their dive patterns and foraging. This data is invaluable for shaping our conservation efforts.”

The SCCF’s Sea Turtle Tracking Portal, powered by Hammerhead Technology, offers public access to track these incredible journeys at SCCF’s Sea Turtle Tracking Portal.

First Green Hatchlings Emerge

As of July 30, the SCCF has documented 868 loggerhead nests and 17 green turtle nests on Sanibel and Captiva this season, already surpassing last year’s totals of 839 loggerhead nests and just three green turtle nests.

The season’s first green turtle nest has successfully hatched, with 49 hatchlings emerging.

Since June 26, a total of 8,728 loggerhead hatchlings have made their way into the world from the islands.

For any sea turtle-related issues or nest sightings on Sanibel or Captiva, please contact the SCCF’s Sea Turtle Hotline at 978-728-3663.

The Love Sanibel Back campaign returns for another vibrant week of community spirit and local business support from July 27 through August 2 on Sanibel Island.

A special community gathering will take place on Tuesday, July 30 at 12 PM at Over Easy Café (2340 Periwinkle Way, Unit B). Stop by to pick up campaign buttons and tote bags, and enjoy island hospitality.

Local businesses including Island Pearl, JRod’s Surf Fish & Style, On Island, Sanibel Captiva Community Bank, and Suncatchers’ Dream will offer treats, giveaways, and discounts throughout the week.

Now running through August, the campaign was launched by Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, in partnership with the Charitable Foundation of the Islands, SanCap Chamber, and the City of Sanibel. The initiative aims to reconnect the island community and uplift Sanibel’s local businesses.

Get Involved:

• In-person: Attend the July 30 gathering and visit participating shops.

• From afar: Support online at saintmichaels-sanibel.org/lsb-online

Learn more at saintmichaels-sanibel.org/love-sanibel-back.