Find Hotels Near Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge St Petersburg

Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge is located off the coast of St. Petersburg, Florida, and serves as a protected sanctuary for numerous species of wildlife, birds, and marine mammals. This area is composed of two main islands, Egmont Key and Mullet Key, which cover an area of 625 acres and provide sanctuary to migratory birds that use the refuge as a resting and nesting grounds during their long-distance travels. The refuge also hosts different kinds of shorebirds and sea turtles that come here to feed at low tide.

Established in 1974 by Congress, Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge provides visitors with an opportunity to experience outstanding habitat diversity due to its range of habitats including subtidal aquatic beds, salt marshes, intertidal areas, maritime forests, grassy dunes and beaches. These habitats support a variety of wildlife including wading birds – such as great blue herons – bald eagles and ospreys, shorebirds – such as red knots – pelicans and roseate spoonbills. There are also large populations of brown pelicans which nest on the island during the summer months.

In addition to providing sanctuary for wildlife throughout the year, Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge offers many recreational activities for visitors throughout the year as well. Kayaking along the shorelines allows you to observe all kinds of wildlife from up close while snorkeling gives you a chance to explore some underwater life near the island’s reefs. Visitors can also camp in designated areas overnight or hike around note-worthy landmarks such as Fort Dade or various Native American burial mounds on the island; making it an ideal spot for history buffs too!

For those who want to make sure they don’t miss out on any sights while visiting Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge can take advantage of guided tours offered by local tour companies or join volunteer programs available through UF/IFAS Extension services in St Pete Beach or Clearwater Beach. Tour guides will point out interesting features like plants used by Native Americans during this region's early days or indigenous species of fauna including armadillos or gopher tortoises that call this area home.

No matter what your interests may be; bird-watching; fishing; swimming; boating; photography; camping - Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge has something for everyone! It is truly worth exploring if you’re looking for a unique outdoor experience in St Petersburg!