Island Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Island Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area in Charlotte Harbor that spans roughly 20 acres across multiple mangrove islands and brackish water zones. The refuge sits within the Cape Haze State Aquatic Preserve and provides essential wetland habitat.

The refuge was established in 1908 by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to protect native bird populations and their breeding grounds. This early designation reflects the growing conservation efforts of that era.

The refuge functions as part of a nationwide network of protected lands dedicated to preserving natural resources and maintaining ecological balance.

The refuge remains closed to public entry since the island tracts are undeveloped and protected as wild habitat. Visitors can observe the area from boat tours and nearby water vantage points with binoculars or cameras for wildlife viewing.

The shallow bays surrounding the islands create natural feeding zones for wading birds that become more accessible during low tide periods. This arrangement makes the area a favored stopover point for migratory birds during their seasonal movements.