Conservancy of SW Florida
Address:
991 2nd Ave N
Naples, FL 34102
Phone:
(239) 262-5857
Description:
The Naples vacationer who has even a modest interest in nature should enjoy a visit to the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, less than three miles from the heart of the city's hotel, retail and restaurant area. The expertise of the Conservancy staff played a significant role in rescuing sea turtles coated with oil hundreds of miles to the north when the BP deep water well exploded in the Gulf near the coast of Louisiana. In a single day they oversaw the transfer of 42 rescued Kemp's ridley turtles to Florida's Ten Thousand Island Area. Rescuing injured birds and creatures as large a black bears is an important part of their mission. Educational programs include (a) Turtle Talk, (b) Snakes Alive, (c) Critter Care, and (d) a guided nature walk. Both children and parents (or grandparents) have the opportunity to reach into a saltwater tank and safely handle small, living sea creatures. But the highlight of one's visit to the Conservancy is the 40 minute boat ride through a tunnel of mangroves while a qualified volunteer guide provides visitors with non-stop information. The Conservancy is currently experiencing a $33 million expansion, but that should not interfere with one's visit. Their gift shop is an ideal place to buy truly special gifts for friends back home.
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