Crabs, worms, snails and clams! These are some of the animals that inhabit our coastal beaches and estuaries on Sanibel. These creatures are important sources of food for larger animals, especially birds.

Many migratory birds rely on places like Sanibel Island to fuel up on high-calorie foods to help them continue on south. Others winter here to take advantage of the nice weather and available resources.

Another important role these invertebrates play is that of water quality indicators. Animals such as crabs require very specific water parameters to survive. If these parameters drop below optimal, the animals would no longer be found here.

Biology intern Tony Henehan

For the past couple of months, Refuge biology interns have been surveying and inventorying organisms that live in the water impoundments and the estuary. After two sampling periods, we have found 11 different types of animals that are large enough to see with the naked eye. Further analysis will help determine the abundance of these animals and provide information to assist the Refuge in making water management practices.