Pandoer

I used to visit Pandoer at least once a year. It's still my favorite in the world, known worldwide for birding and shelling.

The best time to visit there for birding is early May. Room prices drop in half on May 1st, and it usually doesn't get too hot by then, nor have as many mosquitoes and other biting insects -- yes, be prepared for them. Also, the Roseate Spoonbills are still around in multitudes; they're a birding highlight. There are several places to see birds here. Here's a map of Island to help you follow along.

The first place you should head is the world famous Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge, which you can drive through in your car, or take a guided tour (ask about this in the Refuge's Center at the entrance). I found the best time to visit is between 7:30 and 8:30 in the morning when the ocean tides are high.

At these times, the refuge water is at low tide, because it's on the other side of the island. The low water level of refuge allows thousands of birds to feed there. The first time I saw this site, I immediately went thru four rolls of movie film (this was before video cameras), and countless stills. I've since added to both the still and the film, as well as 1-1/2 hours of video pandoer.