Coexisting With Nature
A primer on enjoying the outdoors in Southwest Florida
WATER PRECAUTIONS JELLYFISH
There are a number of jellyfish that can harm you. Please leave them untouched. Stings from this marine animal may result in skin welts, rash and itching. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist. To reduce pain, pour white vinegar over the affected area, then soak in hot water for 30 minutes.
STINGRAYS
A variety of stingray species can be observed in Southwest Florida's waters year-round. During the summer months, a vast number of cownose rays migrate along the coast of Sanibel. Rays are gentle creatures, and will usually move out of your way. To avoid a painful sting, do the “stingray shuffle.” As you wade in the shallows, shuffle your feet so the rays feel the vibrations and swim away. If barbed, immerse the area in very hot water and seek medical attention as soon as possible.
RED DRIFT ALGAE
Red drift algae blooms happen from time to time. This is a normal occurrence in our local ecosystem, and the timing of these blooms cannot be predicted. Red drift algae produces a mild odor and can exacerbate respiratory conditions like allergies and bronchitis, but it is not dangerous to humans. Decaying algae contributes important nutrients to our environment and provides food and habitat for many species, so area leaders prefer to let nature run its course instead of removing it from the beach. Red drift algae is sometimes confused with red tide; however, there is a difference between the two.
PESKY CREATURES NO-SEE-UMS AND MOSQUITOES?
These aggravating winged pests are most active between sunset and sunrise. The best defense against insect bites is to cover up with cool, loose-fitting clothing. Insect repellants that contain DEET are also effective, but may cause skin irritation. No-see-ums can fit through screens, so keep all doors and windows shut to prevent them from entering your indoor space. Many people are highly sensitive to no-see-ums and mosquito bites. Visit or call a local pharmacist for product recommendations if itching persists.
ISLAND LIVING ALLIGATORS
Please do not feed the alligators. It is against the law.
LIVE SHELLS
THE LAW PROHIBITS THE TAKING OF LIVE SHELLS. PLEASE HELP TO CONSERVE THIS PRECIOUS RESOURCE. THIS INCLUDES SEA URCHINS, SAND DOLLARS AND SEA STARS.
BEACH MAINTENANCE
Sanibel Island is designated as a sanctuary island. Local laws are designed to protect the natural environment. Specifically, there is an ordinance that prevents the raking and cleaning of any natural debris from the beaches, including seaweed, grasses, live or dead shellfish, etc. This allows the natural deposits of the tides to remain on the beach, enabling birds and small creatures that live in the sand to feed from this food source.
The dunes are also protected. Sea oats are tall, perennial grass with a strong, extensive, underground root stem; they help prevent beach erosion. This grass is federally protected, and it’s against the law to cut it down or to pick it. Easily recognizable, it has arching spikes of oats on stiff stems. Motorized vehicles, golf carts and bicycles are pro - hibited on dunes and beaches and trash must be removed by hand. No open fires or fireworks are allowed on Sanbel and Captiva beaches, and Jet Skis are prohibited on Sanibel.
LOGGERHEAD TURTLES
Every year, May 1 to Oct. 31 is “Lights Out for Sea Turtles.” Why? Lights can confuse nesting females and disorient hatchlings. Residents and hotel guests should keep their curtains and blinds closes and turn off any balcony lights at night. To clear the way for turtles, it is also important to remove any personal items from the beach at the end of the day, and to level any large sand castles or holes.
All of the marine turtle species that nest on our islands (loggerheads, leatherbacks, and green sea turtles) are considered vulnerable or threatened under the Endangered Species Act.
THE FLORIDA SUN
The sun is very strong in Florida. To protect yourself from sunburn and other harmful effects of UV rays, cover up with clothing whenever possible, including wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses. Always use sunscreen with at least SPF 15, and try to limit your exposure to direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. And don't forget to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.