Pinellas National Wildlife Refuge

Pinellas National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area spread across several islands within St. Petersburg that shelters seabirds and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Seagrass beds and wetland areas within the refuge provide the food and shelter that birds and marine animals need to survive.

The refuge was established in 1951 to create breeding grounds for seabirds and protect their colonies from disturbance. This protection developed from the understanding that these bird species needed quiet and safe areas to successfully raise their young.

The refuge serves as a critical sanctuary for regional bird conservation, where visitors can observe how natural habitats are actively protected from external disturbance. The islands provide safe breeding grounds for rare species like brown pelicans and herons that depend on undisturbed nesting areas.

The refuge is not open to general public access because the islands serve as active nesting areas that must remain undisturbed. Visitors can view the area from designated viewing spots or join guided nature programs if available in the surrounding area.

Tarpon Key holds the largest brown pelican nesting colony in the entire state of Florida, demonstrating the success of creating motor boat-free zones. The surrounding seagrass meadows show how intact coastal ecosystems can thrive when motors and human activity are restricted.

Location: Florida

Inception: 1951

Website: https://fws.gov/chassahowitzka/pinellas

GPS coordinates: 27.66631,-82.69289

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:05