Buck Key Preserve

Buck Key Preserve is a beautiful, undeveloped barrier island located near Captiva Island in Florida. It offers a pristine natural environment rich in wildlife and accessible only by water.

350
Acres Protected
N/A
Miles of Trails
N/A
Annual Visitors
1970
Year Established

About Buck Key Preserve

Buck Key Preserve is an uninhabited barrier island in Lee County, Florida, part of the Pine Island Sound Aquatic Preserve. It spans approximately 350 acres and is a critical habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. The preserve is famous for its mangrove forests, salt marshes, and seagrass beds, which provide essential breeding grounds for fish and supporting habitats for bird species like ospreys, herons, and pelicans. Historically, the area has been significant for indigenous peoples and early settlers, although it remains largely untouched by development to this day. Key recreational activities include kayaking and canoeing, allowing visitors to navigate the intricate water trails and experience the serene environment. Birdwatching is particularly popular due to the diverse avian population. Buck Key is only accessible via boat, which adds to its charm and lessens human impact on its pristine environments. The preserve offers a rare opportunity for solitude in nature, attracting those who crave an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Highlights

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Mangrove waterways perfect for kayaking and canoeing.

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Diverse birdlife, including ospreys and herons.

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Pristine salt marshes and seagrass beds.

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Untouched natural landscapes offering solitude.

Notable Natural Features

Mangrove Tunnels

Navigate these intricate waterways surrounded by towering mangroves.

Salt Marshes

Explore the thriving ecosystems that support diverse wildlife.

Seagrass Beds

Critical habitats for marine life, viewable under clear waters.