Sanibel Island is on Florida's west coast, just off Ft. Myers. It is probably the only place in South Florida, outside the parks, that has not become completely overdeveloped and spoiled. The island has VERY strict building regulations and uses mostly native plant landscaping versus manicured lawns and ornamental shrubs. Needless to say it is an amazing place with a wealth of wildlife. It gets pretty crowded in the winter due to the "snowbird" effect; however it was still pretty quiet this past weekend when I visited.

I wandered around for a bit Sunday evening and finally plopped down at the beach. I had plenty of company...

Snowy Egret




Dunlin


Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on the day's batch of tourists)


Ibis


Willet






Black Bellied Plover


Sunsets on the west coast are always spectacular. Sanibel sunsets seem especially magical and vibrant.




Darkness fell as the sun was ferried away.


To be continued...