The 6400 acres of pristine wildlife habitat of Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge makes this one of the top birding spots in the United States. The refuge is comprised of mangrove forest, submerged seagrass beds and hardwood hammocks, a diverse mix that provides a habitat to over 220 species of birds. This is a typical tidal pool that provides feeding, roosting and nesting areas. A large collection of mixed wading birds is seen on the far sandbar. But sometimes these birds come close to the access road. Many are accustomed to visitors, making up close bird photography possible.