Guided Tour of the Mangrove Ecosystem

Natural Conservation on Sanibel and Captiva

Captiva and Sanibel Islands are renown for their wild life, shells, nature santuaries, and unique ecology. Join us for an "EcoTour" to enjoy and learn about the natural beauty of the islands. You can also help preserve this rare and delicate environment by participating in conservation organizations and activities. Since the 1930s, countless hours of volunteer work and generous donations have made possible this ecological preservation. We always welcome your interest, participation, or just enjoyment and appreciation. For more information, please visit The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation

Ecology Theme Vacations with American Realty of Captiva

Common but Beautiful: Snowy Egret

AMRC facilitate your nature-oriented visit by arranging for the necessary passes and providing information about where to go, what to see and who to talk with. Sign up for our AMRC EcoTour package or tailor an EcoTour to focus on your specific interests. Activities available at your request include touring the National Wildlife Refuge, riverside nature walks, kayak adventures to isolated mangrove forests where no other boats can go, visits to uninhabited keys, Shell Museum passes, lectures by researchers and extension services, fish and wildlife information, sea turtle nest watch, bird watching, porpoise and manatee watching, butterfly house, SCCF Nature Center and Native Plant gardens, a gentle aerial tour of Captiva via ParaSail, and much more.

	Osprey Dines on Fresh Fish

AMRC EcoTours are not guided groups that move from one bus stop to another -- quite the opposite. You are at your leisure to emerse in the natural environment according to your own priorities and schedule. We provide a loose framework of ecological observation opportunities along with necessary passes. Additional insight is freely offered by local experts such as the kayak managers, conservation foundation, wildlife refuge rangers, and scientists at the museum. You are encouraged to talk with these people to make the most of your EcoTour (e.g., "Where might we see manatees this week").

Captiva Library

Optional: Homework

Advance preparation is not essential but may help you appreciate your time here on the wild side of Captiva and Sanibel. There are excellent guide books you can find in your public library, or purchase them to bring along on your visit. No time to read them before you leave? Bring them and relax with a book or two on Captiva... life is good! Perhaps call or stop by the Captiva Library while you're here -- an outstanding resource! There is also a wealth of free information on-line covering all aspects of the Sanibel-Captiva ecosystem. Search out sites on aquatic birds, marine mammals, mollusks (shells), flora and habitats, tropical birds and fish, or whatever interests you.