Meet the Team for Summer Camp 2023

Every year we look for energetic, fun, and kind camp counselors to share the magic of the ocean with campers and shape Counselors in Training into strong leaders. Some are returning this year; some are new, and we’re confident it will be one of the best crews to date. Learn a little bit more about them below:

Jaden Cabrera

Where are you from?

I was raised in Southwest Florida and spent much of my time learning about marine life at the beach.

What is your favorite sea creature, and why?

Jaden is returning for his 3rd year as a counselor!

My favorite sea creature right now is the gulper eel; they are so unique in how they vacuum in prey with their pelican-like mouths; I wish we understood more about them!

What are you most looking forward to this summer?

This summer, I look forward to playing Capture the Fish again.

You’re planning your next trip. Are you headed to the beach, mountains, forest, or desert?

If I had to plan my next trip, I would head to the beach.

  What is your favorite outdoor activity?

My favorite outdoor activity would have to be basketball, preferably in winter when it isn't too hot and humid.

If you had a theme song, what would it be?

If I had a theme song, it would be the song "Family of Me" from the hit 2006 film Over the Hedge.

Anything else you’d like to share?

Another thing that is good to know about me is that I enjoy eating apples and oranges.

Audrey Boren

Where are you from? 

Fort Myers, Fl

What is your favorite sea creature & why?

My favorite sea creature is the wonderful West Indian manatee! I have grown a strong love for them while working beside these beauties over the last few years. I love how docile and curious they can be in their environments. They live such peaceful lives, which is what I always strive to do for myself!

What are you most looking forward to this summer?

This summer, I am most looking forward to meeting and working with the kids of this camp. I am excited to be a role model for them and to share my love of the ocean with the younger generation. Working outside on an island that I have a deep passion for will be so much fun. I look forward to learning new skills that I can take with me for future endeavors. 

You’re planning your next trip. Are you headed to the beach, mountains, forest, or desert?

Born and raised in SWFL, I head toward the mountains on vacation. I love seeing the change in topography from what I am used to and experiencing different wildlife that we do not get down here. However, the deserts out West are set up for my next big trip!

What is your favorite outdoor activity?

My favorite outdoor activity is hiking. I love being out in nature and experiencing it on foot. I enjoy being able to stop whenever I want to analyze something that intrigues me, all while getting good exercise. It is nice to stop and look at the tiny creatures that are easily passed by and learn about new plants and animals while on the trails.

If you had a theme song, what would it be?

My theme song would be Pump It Up by Endor. The whole song says, "Don't you know? Pump it up. You got to pump it up." Those are the only words. But the beat that goes with the song is such a mood-setter that you cannot be in a bad mood when it comes on. It always gets my head bopping and puts a smile on my face!

Ethan Robbins

Where are you from?

Dayton, Ohio

What is your favorite sea creature & why?

Sea Horses. I think it’s cool how they can latch onto seaweed, coral, and so much more with their tails! 

What are you most looking forward to this summer?

I look forward to meeting and working with all the campers all summer.

You’re planning your next trip. Are you headed to the beach, mountains, forest, or desert?

The Mountains, I love to hike! 

What is your favorite outdoor activity?

I love canoeing and shelling. 

If you had a theme song, what would it be?

Second-Hand News by Fleetwood Mac. 

Anything else you’d like to share with us?

This will be my seventh year at sea school. For the past five years, I’ve been a CIT. I’m excited to see the counselor's perspective. 

Stella Camp

Where are you from?

I am from North Canton, Ohio.
What is your favorite sea creature & why?

My favorite sea creatures are octopuses; they are such amazing and intelligent creatures, and I'm lucky to share the earth with them.

What are you most looking forward to this summer?

I look forward to being outside and active daily; I can't wait to help campers learn about the ocean.

You’re planning your next trip. Are you headed to the beach, mountains, forest, or desert?

Most definitely, the beach

What is your favorite outdoor activity?

Probably hiking or snorkeling

If you had a theme song, what would it be?

Rock Lobster by the B-52s

Joe Uhlir

Joe’s returning as a counselor for his second year!

Where are you from?

Mentor, Ohio 

What is your favorite sea creature, and why?

Octopus because I love how unique and intelligent they have proven themselves.

What are you most looking forward to this summer?

I was a counselor last summer, and it was an absolute blast. I’m excited to see some familiar faces and meet new campers!

You’re planning your next trip. Are you headed to the beach, mountains, forest, or desert?

As much as I love a good relaxing beach day, I must say mountains. I love going on hikes in scenic places.

What is your favorite outdoor activity?

I love hiking. Great way to relax and explore but also burn some calories while I’m at it

If you had a theme song, what would it be?

I’d have to go with The Adults Are Talking as my theme song because it’s my favorite right now.

Sanibel Sea School Hosts Camp Over the Holiday Break

Sanibel Sea School typically hosts week-long Winter Camps over the holiday break. This year was especially challenging to plan with the school’s main campus on Sanibel’s East End under construction, beaches on Sanibel closed, and limited program supplies post-Ian. Despite many hurdles, Sanibel Sea School — which is part of the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation — was still able to offer six days of camp both on and off Sanibel Island, engaging with 129 children. Campers learned a little marine biology, created works of art from nature, and made friendships to last a lifetime. Favorite Winter Camp traditions lived on as campers sipped hot coco each day and surfed in the chilly Gulf.

On Dec. 28 and Jan. 4, Captiva Cruises and Sanibel Sea School teamed up to offer “A Day on the Bay,” a full day charter to North Captiva aboard Captiva Cruises’ catamaran. The mornings were spent exploring both the bay and Gulf side of the island, nets in hand. Campers encountered ragged sea hares, sea stars, juvenile horseshoe crabs, tunicates, snails, and more. After lunch on the boat, campers headed back out for sand sculpture making, shelter building, and scavenger hunts!

“It was amazing to be out on the water with kids again,” said Marine Science Educator Joey Garofano. “Everyone had so much fun. You could feel the excitement and positive energy just to be together again.”

Dec. 28 was a day of firsts for everyone involved — it was the first charter for Captiva Cruises, the first re-imagined camp for Sanibel Sea School, and the first time many campers had seen each other since Hurricane Ian closed the Sanibel School. Both trips were offered for free in an effort to support island families.

In addition, the IMAG History & Science Center in Fort Myers generously offered space for Sanibel Sea School to host day camps on Dec. 29, 30, Jan. 5, and 6. IMAG is a unique, family-friendly destination featuring aquariums and animal exhibits, interactive displays, and activities. The Sanibel Sea School camps focused on a different marine creature each day while incorporating new experiences through IMAG. Campers learned about sharks, sea turtles, dolphins, and cephalopods. Each day was filled with ocean-themed games, art projects, and experiments.

“I was nervous to come back to help with camp at a different location” said Camp Counselor Joe Uhlir, a previous summer camp counselor who returned to volunteer over his winter break. “But I’ve learned that Sanibel Sea School isn’t always about the place — it’s about the people. As long as we’re together, it feels like sea school.”

These camps would not have been possible without the support of our community and generosity of Captiva Cruises and IMAG.

“Each day was proof that we are resilient, better together, and exemplary of the beauty behind collaboration,” said Youth Education Director Shannon Rivard. 

Sanibel Sea School's Newest Marine Science Educator: Austin Wise

Austin joined Sanibel Sea School full time last week after completing his summer position as a summer camp counselor. He will teach day courses, after school, homeschool, and more! Read a little bit about him here:

Where are you from?

 I was born and raised in Memphis, TN.

 Where did you go to school and what did you study?

 I spent my freshman year at the University of Missouri studying journalism and then transferred to Florida Gulf Coast University to complete a degree in marine science.

 What do you look forward to while teaching at Sanibel Sea School?

 I look forward to the possibility of inspiring future generations to care as much about marine life and the conservation of the ocean as I do. I am also looking forward to “lightbulb” moments, where I can visibly tell that the lessons I am teaching are understood and enjoyed.

What do you like to do in your time off?

In my free time, I enjoy playing lots of tennis, leisurely beach days, and quality time spent with my friends, no matter the activity.

What is your favorite sea creature?

 At the moment, my favorite sea creature would have to be the killer whale.

What's the best music for a weekend at the beach?

 The best music for a weekend at the beach has to be reggae/reggae rock. Throw on some Jack Johnson, Bob Marley or Sticky Fingers and you won’t hear a complaint from me!

 If you could visit any marine ecosystem on the planet, where would you go?

 I would love to visit the coastal waters of New Zealand in the hopes of spotting one of their orca populations.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about yourself?

Overall, I have about 4 years’ worth of outdoor camp experience, and throughout college I was involved in multiple research projects involving microplastics and Karenia brevis (red tide) concentrations in the water column.

Sanibel Sea School Welcomes a New Marine Science Educator

We are so excited to announce that we have a new marine science educator joining our team of ocean advocates. Annie Clinton is no stranger to Sanibel Sea School, however, she started her journey with us a a Summer Camp Counselor! As she transitions to full time you’ll find her leading day courses, homeschool programs, and more. Read a little more about her here:

Annie Clinton

Where are you from?

I am from Orlando, Florida. I’ve grown up used to Florida’s hot sun, afternoon thunderstorms, and creepy critters. My experiences from living on a lake and from visiting the ocean have shaped my career choices and the way that I view the environment.

Where did you go to school and what did you study?                                                                      

I went to Rollins College where I majored in Marine Biology and minored in German. I experienced a lot of hands-on activities both within the lab and field. It has been amazing to see a lot of the creatures I have learned about in the wild.

What do you look forward to while teaching at Sanibel Sea School?                                             

I am looking forward to helping build a connection between students and the marine environment. Early experiences can greatly shape how people act in the future and the choices they make. It would be incredible to influence a love for our oceans that leads to choices that will impact our environment in a positive way.

What do you like to do in your time off?                                                                                         

I love to read, paint, go to the beach (of course 😊), karaoke!, wakeboard… the list goes on and on... I love trying new things.

What is your favorite sea creature?

My favorite sea creature is a jellyfish because I always seem to become so entranced by them. I love watching them when I am at an aquarium. They’re so elegant and their life cycles are so unique. Learning about them in college re-sparked my love for the marine world.

What's the best music for a weekend at the beach?                                                              

Whenever I go to the beach, I either must listen to Jimmy Buffet or Colbie Caillat. Those two artists will always be my go-to for beach music.

If you could visit any marine ecosystem on the planet, where would you go?                                

I think it would be incredible to go out into the large open ocean to swim with whale sharks. It seems so serene and peaceful, but also a bit frightening as you have this vast ocean beneath you.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about yourself?                                                            

Fun fact: I have never seen snow. I prefer warm days over cold. Florida is my forever home!

Seven New Ocean Warriors Conquer Sanibel Sea School’s Wahine Toa Week

From June 20-24, seven female teenagers participated in Sanibel Sea School’s Wahine Toa Week, an annual all-women paddling and survival week led by only female staff. “Wahine toa” is a phrase with Polynesian roots that translates to “woman warrior” or “female surfer.” Participants embodied this phrase through a week of paddling, orienteering, and camping overnight on an uninhabited island.

“This camp empowers women by pushing their physical limits and teaching them important life skills,” said camp leader Kimberly Bouwkamp.

Each day was purposely crafted to prepare them for Thursday’s overnight on an uninhabited island and strengthen their confidence in paddling. Campers explored Sanibel via stand-up paddleboard, perfected their strokes, learned how to navigate using maps and compasses, and got certified in CPR and First Aid through the Sanibel Fire Station and the American Heart Association. This week was a skill-builder, indeed.

On Thursday afternoon, it was finally time to put their new paddling skills to the test, despite the windy conditions. They were ready for anything — and the elements were not going to hold them back. The girls shared ready-to-eat meals, built a fire for roasting smores, soaked up the colorful sunset, and enjoyed some group bonding while being immersed in nature. The next morning, campers made their way to the Sanibel Causeway for breakfast, and then continued on the epic paddle to Fort Myers Beach. The wind was in their favor this time, and better yet, a large spotted eagle ray (Aetobatus narinari) cruised by their boards for part of the journey. The last stop of the day was well-deserved lunch at Dixie Fish Co. to wrap up the week! Congratulations to all the Wahine Toa Week participants!

Have Paddle, Will Survive Week at Sanibel Sea School

The summer held one last challenge before school started for some teenage campers at Sanibel Sea School. During the first week of August, campers participated in “Have Paddle, Will Survive,” a camp designed to push campers out of their comfort zones while learning survival skills both on and off the water. In the past, this camp was conducted via standup paddle board, but this year we decided to try sitting — in kayaks, that is.

Photo by Shane Antalick

Over the course of the week, campers got trained by American Canoe Association instructors and received an L1 Coastal Kayaking certification. Campers learned to maneuver their kayaks with ease and how to rescue themselves and others in an emergency situation.  

Off the water, campers learned not only how to build a proper fire, but how to light it using flint and steel — a challenge easier said than done. Another survival skill the teens learned over the week was how to navigate by compass — another tricky talent to master.

All the campers by the end of the week felt more confident in their paddling and survival skills and were ready to take on an ‘Amazing Race’ epic challenge. After spending the night under the stars at the SCCF Bailey Homestead, campers woke up to a series of challenges, including testing their kayak maneuvering skills, fire starting, resourcefulness and navigating.  After challenges concluded, the “survivors” were treated to lunch at Gramma Dots before saying their goodbyes to their new friends.  

Sanibel Sea School survivalists this year were up for every challenge. Will next year’s group measure up? We look forward to finding out.

Summer Camp at the Homestead Ends with Pollinator Week

From Aug. 1 to 5, Sanibel Sea School held its last week of summer camp at the Bailey Homestead Preserve celebrating pollinators! Pollination, the process of moving genetic material from one flowering plant to another, leads to the creation of seeds and fruit, making it an essential process for plants, wildlife, and people. More than 80% of plants require pollinators, like coffee, almonds, bananas, avocados, and more. Pollination even occurs in the marine environment with seagrasses.

Sea school campers learned all about the pollination process and the creatures we have to thank for most of the food we eat — like bees, birds, bats, and other insects.  We explored both land and sea to find as many pollinators as we could. Campers went on a scavenger hunt throughout SCCFs Native Landscapes & Garden Center, snorkeled in the seagrass, and even explored the Shipley Trail on a night walk!  

“The highlight of the week was the night walk, when we set up a white sheet with lights to attract nighttime pollinators like moths,” said Marine Science Educator Kimberly Bouwkamp. “I especially enjoy experiences like this where everyone is nervously excited. Being out in nature at night is totally different, and for our some of our campers, it’s their first time doing so. It’s fun to watch their reactions to new sounds, smells, and creatures!”

 Campers played hands-on games to gain a better understanding of how pollen is passed, conducted a flower dissection, and made tie dye in the shape of a bullseye to demonstrate how some insects see flowers. And there was plenty of swimming and surfing in the Gulf, of course.

Each week, camp ends with a surf paddle race on Friday morning. Campers spend the week honing their paddling skills in surf teams and then put them to the test in a relay race. The Purple Pollinators won the surf paddle race and were the last team of the summer to place their surf bracelet on the coveted Golden Conch surf paddle trophy at the Bailey Homestead campus.

 Sanibel Sea School will continue to offer summer camps at their Flagship campus on Periwinkle Way through the end of August.

Let’s Go Fishing Week

From June 13 to 17, Sanibel Sea School hosted nine teens for “Let’s Go Fishing Week” at the Bailey Homestead on Sanibel. Fishing is more than catching and conquering—it involves the practice of understanding fish behavior, habitat, and learning how to read the water.

Fishing is an art form and yet another way we connect with nature. During this week-long camp, teens learned about fish biology, fishing gear, techniques, and what’s needed to be successful in the art.

On Tuesday, campers had a guest instructor, Capt. Ben Biery, from Sanibel-based Cast About Charters. Biery gave a tutorial on rod and reel fishing and then led campers through an afternoon of casting along the Sanibel Causeway. Campers tested out a spot located near the east end of Island B. Species caught included gag grouper, pin fish, mackerel, gulf toadfish, and pufferfish! All were safely released.

Photo by Shane Antalick

After mastering rod and reel, campers took on fly fishing with the help of local experts from the Sanibel FlyFishers Club. Campers spent the morning learning about different flies and how they mimic nature. The fly they tied this year was the “Squgly” which can be used to catch snook, jacks, redfish, tarpon, trout, and more!

Next, they practiced casting on dry land to hone their skills before hitting the water in the afternoon. After lunch, campers ventured to the Sanibel River for some inland freshwater flyfishing using their very own flies. The “Squgly” proved to be successful and campers were able to land blue gills, tilapia, and cichlids.

As a Mind Your Line partner, Marine Science Educator Joey Garofano also shared the importance of removing fishing gear and monofilament from the environment to protect local wildlife. He also assigned campers nightly research topics to report back on when they returned to camp each day: favorite species, cultural fishing methods, fishing techniques that align with each campers’ heritage.

“Campers got really into their roles as both fisher people and historians,” reported Garofano. “Throughout the week there was also a friendly competition to see who could catch the most fish—campers would yell fish on with every bite they had.” Cumulatively, they caught over 120 fish! It was a week full of laughter and many great fishing stories.

A Pinch of Fun & A Dash of Claws - Spider Crab Week at Sanibel Sea School

Decapod or 10-legged crustaceans were the area of focus from June 13 to 17 during Sanibel Sea School’s Island Skills Summer Camp at the Flagship Campus. Two of those ten appendages are typically claws, or chelae, which are modified for different uses dependent on the species. Claws are used for feeding, defense, communication, mate attraction, burrowing, and more. After repeated observations of crabs using their claws in the field, campers learned how to make educated guesses about diet, defense strategies, and behavior.

Spider crabs were this week’s celebrity creature with the most effort focused on finding them. Two commonly found local species are the portly spider crab (Libinia emarginata) and the longnose spider crab (Libinia dubia). Using handy nets & snorkels, campers were also able to find stone crabs, hermit crabs, and multiple species of swimming crabs. A mud walk through the mangroves provided the perfect setting to observe fiddler crabs and mangrove tree crabs!

“The highlight of this week was definitely the mud walk,” said Marine Science Educator Brianna Machuga. “We were able to observe male fiddler crabs waving their oversized claw to attract mates. Campers were definitely pushed out of their comfort zones in knee-deep mud but we ended the walk with a nice dip into the bay to clean off.”

In addition to exploring all of Sanibel’s diverse habitats in search of crustaceans, counselors led campers through plenty of games and hands-on activities. In one experiment, campers used tweezers, claw crackers, hair clips, chopsticks, and pipe cleaners to try to pick up different “prey” items like gummies, sand, cotton balls, and shells.

Each tool represented a different claw shape from species like spider crabs, stone crabs, swimming crabs, and mole crabs while the prey items represented fish plankton, algae, bivalves, and gastropods. Campers determined what the likely prey of each crab was based on the success of each “claw.”

Summer Camp Kicks Off With Octopus Week at Sanibel Sea School

From June 6 to 10, Sanibel Sea School held its first week of summer camp at the Flagship Campus on the east end of the island. The week was titled “Armed with Brains – Octopus Week” as it focused on how octopuses came to be so intelligent. Campers learned about different forms of animal intelligence, how scientists measure and study those forms, and dove deep into cephalopod anatomy with a squid dissection.

“At first, campers were really hesitant about the dissection. But, once we started learning about how each part of the body works they were fascinated and wanted to do more,” said Marine Science Educator Dana Donkle. “By the end of it, they were so excited about anatomy! That transformation from nerves to wonder is one of the best parts of my job.” 

Seine nets and dip nets were used all week long to explore for creatures. Snorkeling was top-notch as calm clear water allowed campers to see the bottom easily. Campers even adventured out after dark for a night snorkel to see if they could find the elusive octopus. Unfortunately, an octopus was never sighted but many other exciting mollusks were discovered, such as sea hares and lightning whelks.

Counselors conducted lots of tests and trials on the beach to learn about memory and problem solving. Staff even turned Sanibel Sea School’s campus into a giant maze overnight! Coconuts were a perfect test subject for tool use – campers experimented with different strategies to see which was most effective for coconut opening.

Campers scoured the beach for coquinas and other small shells to create a mosaic octopus to take home. And of course, there was plenty of surfing in the Gulf!

Dune Life

By Mason Goss, Ed.D.

Most are drawn to the water’s edge when we venture to the beach.  The waves, shells, and cool water are magnets for our senses.  Countless birds search for mollusks and crustaceans’ that scurry and burrow in along the waterline. The ocean just looks alive!

All appreciate the “beach life,” but the area above the wrack line (high tide line) is often overlooked. Dunes are another magnificent habitat; home to a diverse group of hardy animals and plants.  In addition to being home to various living beings, this habitat is important to us because it helps prevent erosion.

Sanibel beach dunes. The vast vegetation assists with erosion while providing important habitat.

Sanibel and Captiva dunes thrive due to resilient vegetation like Beachberry (Scaevola plomieri), Bay Cedar (Suriana maritima), Sea Grape (Cocoloba uvifera), Sandspur Grass (Cenchrus spinifex) Railroad Vine (Ipomoea pescaprae), Dune Sunflower (Helianthus debelis), Sea Oats (Uniola paniculate), and Cabbage Palm (Sabal palmetto). This vegetation holds the sand in place and keeps sand from blowing or washing away.  Hiding in, on, and under these tough plants is a vast array of life.  Look closely and you may see a Mallow Scrub-Hairstreak (Strymon istapa), a Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura), Marsh rabbit (Sylvilagus palustris), Ghost Crabs (Ocypode quadrata), and maybe even a Gopher tortoise, (Gopherus Polyphemus).

Mallow Scrub-Hairstreak (Strymon istapa) on a Sea Grape.

A resident of the Sanibel sand dunes. Marsh rabbit (Sylvilagus palustris).

The life within the sand dunes can be as exciting to the senses as the life found in and near the water’s edge.  Look, listen and smell.  You may be surprised by what you discover!

The other side of the islands

By Mason Goss, Ed.D.

Residents and visitors alike are drawn to our pristine beaches and the warm Gulf waters.  Winter and Spring are busy times for our beaches.  There are thousands of migratory birds, sea turtles and plenty of human visitors to our beaches.   The beautiful shells, bird life and warm water attract people from around the world. 

Have you ever stopped on your beach sunrise run or sunset walk and wondered about the the “other side” of the island?  Sanibel and Captiva could not be what they are without the important plant and wildlife residing on the bay side of the island.  Unique in their own way, the bay side waters of Sanibel and Captiva include San Carlos Bay, Pine Island Sound, and the terminus of the Caloosahatchee River.  These form what is called an estuary, or a partially enclosed coastal body of brackish water with one or more rivers flowing into it. The Caloosahatchee Estuary is the proper term for the bay waters surrounding our islands.  These waters are essential to a balanced and healthy ecosystem. 

Missing from the bay side of the islands are vast open beaches.  Instead, one finds dense mangals, or forests of mangrove trees.  Locally, red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle), black mangrove (Avicennia germinans) and white mangrove (Laguncularia recemosa) thrive in the calm bayside waters of the Caloosahatchee Estuary.  Not only do these lush and hardy trees create accretion and silt build-up helping to slow erosion, their roots provide habitat for marine life and their canopy is home to birds and other wildlife. Further, the extensive root systems act as filters and substrate for such filter feeders as the eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica) or the ivory barnacle (Amphibalanus eburneus).

Take a paddle on the bay coastline and discover the wonders of the mangrove forest.  You’ll witness a quieter yet essential coastal ecosystem in action.  Mangroves are home to resting birds, skittish fish, and various crustaceans working together in a splendid balance of nature.  Go and see the other side!

Sanibel Sea School Welcomes Two New Seasonal Marine Science Educators

We are so excited to announce that we have two marine science educators joining our team of ocean advocates. Our new educators are here just in time to help us kick off our busy spring and summer seasons. You’ll find them leading programs for kids and families and sharing their love for the ocean. Tiara and Savanna bring their teaching experience from all over the United States to our little sandy bucket school here on Sanibel. Read a little more about them below.

Tiara Burton

Where are you from?
I'm from Minneapolis, Minnesota!

Where did you go to school and what did you study?
I went to school at Boston University studying Biology with a focus in Ecology and Conservation

What do you look forward to while teaching at Sanibel Sea School?

I'm looking forward to helping students dive headfirst into marine science as we learn about Sanibel's ecosystems and the fascinating creatures that live in them. Many of my favorite memories in school are from field trips and hands-on learning experiences where I got to see, smell, touch, and hear about the plants and animals I was excited about. So to have the opportunity to give those same experiences to others is very special to me, and I intend to make learning as fun as possible!

What do you like to do in your time off?

I like drawing, yoga, anime, scary movies, and taking long walks on nature preserve trails trying to see if I can spot anything interesting :). In the summers in Minnesota I can often be seen swimming or kayaking in the state's numerous lakes, streams, and rivers or doing anything that lets me be in or near the water.

What is your favorite sea creature?

Right now I am fascinated by sea slugs! They come in so many different colors and sizes, it's hard not to find these little guys incredible.

What's the best music for a weekend at the beach?

You can never go wrong with Spotify's curated playlists! I'm partial to R&B, myself so would probably put on some Jhene Aiko, Masego, or Omar Apollo.

If you could visit any marine ecosystem on the planet, where would you go?

I've always dreamed of snorkeling in Belize...who wouldn't?

Is there anything else you'd like to share about yourself?

A goal of mine is to get SCUBA certified by 2024 so that I can take my love for snorkeling to a whole other level! 

Savanna Wilkinson

Where are you from?

I’m from West Des Moines, Iowa.

 Where do you go to school and what do you study?

I'm a sophomore at Florida International University and I'm studying Marine Biology.

 What do you look forward to while teaching at Sanibel Sea School?

I'm most looking forward to teaching the many different kinds of subjects and creating art with students!

 What do you like to do in your time off?

On my time off I enjoy nature journaling, shelling on Sanibel's beaches, and crafting.

 What is your favorite sea creature?

I really like angel fish and corals! 

 What's the best music for a weekend at the beach?

Anything by Fleetwood Mac, ABBA or the like.

 If you could visit any marine ecosystem on the planet, where would you go?

To Antarctica! I would want to go for a chilly dive to look for the colorful invertebrates.  

Is there anything else you'd like to share about yourself?

I have a cat named Ross and a bearded dragon named Mochi.

Animal Ingenuity in Action

Bombs Away!

By Mason Goss, Ed.D.

The extreme tides and winds of winter push many creatures ashore.  Varieties of shells and other sea creatures are exposed to the elements and predators.  Immediately after winter cold fronts, it is not unusual to find numerous types of live shells, sea sponges, sea whips, and even the occasional small octopus washed up on the beaches of Sanibel and Captiva.

One resident of our local waters seems to cover island beaches during the winter season.  The variegated urchin (Lytechinus variegatus) is the red or purple spiny spherical object found in the swash zone.  This beautiful creature is an echinoderm and related to the commonly-sited sand dollar.  The variegated urchin is not poisonous, but they can be sharp!  Understandably, some people affectionately refer to sea urchins as the “porcupines of the sea.”

Variegated Sea Urchin (Lytechinus variegatus)

Similar to the local buffet restaurant, local beaches offer vast delicacies to shorebirds and other coastal predators such as raccoons.  If out early in the morning or after dark in the evening, one may observe raccoons gorging on washed up sea life.

At virtually any time of day during our winter storm season, an interesting type of animal behavior can be observed on local beaches from our avian friends.  Specifically, Herring Gulls (Larus argentatus), display their aerial acumen and ingenuity in the manner they feed on washed up urchins.  The Herring Gull does not simply try to peck at the urchin to access the soft animal tissue within the hard shell, called the test.  These clever birds have discovered that they can get to the edible portion of the urchin by softening or cracking the test.  They gather an urchin in their beak, take flight, and then drop the sea urchin from dozens of feet above.  The birds then swoop down and munch on the exposed animal. 

A Herring Gull (Larus argentatus) preparing its next meal!

The next time you are at the beach, stop and observe.  If you look closely, you are bound to see examples of the web of life in action.  One messy and easily observed interaction between avian and marine life is the unique relationship between Herring Gulls and variegated urchins.  Enjoy watching nature in action. Oh, and watch your head.  There may be flying urchins in the forecast!

Winter: Sanibel’s Sandy Search Season

By Mason Goss, Ed.D.

Most are familiar with the tradition of some of our northern Ocean Tribe friends called a “polar plunge.”  It may seem silly to think about a cold-water swim when looking at sunny skies, palm trees and iguanas.  However, island winters can bring cold water and air temperatures and excellent beach combing.

For many visitors to Sanibel and Captiva, the wintertime feels a lot like summer. With temperatures that reach as high as 75-80 degrees in January and February, it is difficult to fathom that we are in the midst of winter. 

January and February tend to be the coolest months of the year on the islands.  Air temperatures average 75 degrees and Gulf water temperatures average 65 degrees.  This may not sound cold, but with prevalent cold fronts and northern breezes, one can become quite chilly out on the water or along the beaches.  If brave enough to immerse yourself in the local waters, remember that your body loses heat 25 times faster in the water.  Hypothermia is a real concern even here in Florida!

A cold winter sunset - Sanibel

The cooler air and water temperatures shouldn’t discourage you from visiting our beaches. Animals who live in the ocean feel this change in temperature too! Between December and February, we discover various types of washed up sea creatures on our beaches. We find a variety of urchins, sponges, sea stars, crabs, clams, scallops, egg casings, tunicates, and sometimes even an octopus! When there is a sudden drop of temperature in our waters, we call this a “cold snap.” Creatures are sensitive to these low temperatures and will find it harder to move, or stick to the ocean floor. Lethargy in organisms caused by cold temperatures, combined with higher winds in the winter, results in a large variety of sea life washing ashore. This makes for a perfect beach walk! One can discover creatures that you normally wouldn't see.

A lightning whelk egg casing washed up on the wrack line.

Do not be too upset about seeing the dead creatures lining the beaches. This is a natural phenomenon and it occurs every winter. These washed up creatures actually help support life on land. Stranded sea life serves as a tasty treat for shorebirds, crabs, and decomposers on our wrack lines. Sometimes you will see living creatures washed up and still alive. These creatures await the next high tide and a natural return to the ocean.

 Bundle up and go see what you can find! Enjoy your sandy search.

Sanibel Sea School Hosts The Art of Fishing Camp

Fishing is more than just hooking a fish on a line – it involves the practice of understanding fish behavior, habitat, and learning how to read the water. It is truly an art form that requires patience and responsibility. In the last week of July, Sanibel Sea School hosted a week-long camp to learn about fish, fishing gear, and the techniques needed to be successful in the art of fishing.

Twelve fishing campers kicked off the week with a lesson on fishing from a biological perspective. They studied seagrass habitat ecology, fish identification, as well as some basic fish biology. Campers also practiced tying important fishing knots and learned how to be a responsible fisherperson using fishing etiquette.

On Monday afternoon, campers had a guest instructor, Captain Ben Biery, from Sanibel-based Castabout Charters. Biery gave a tutorial on rod and reel fishing and led campers through an afternoon of casting along the shoreline.

After mastering the rod and reel, campers took on fly fishing. With help from The Sanibel Fly Fishers, campers spent Wednesday morning tying their very own flies. Campers learned about different flies that mimic what specific fish eat and were able to create their own fly to take home. Afterwards, they practiced casting on dry land to hone their casting skills before hitting the water in the afternoon.

At the end of the week, campers ventured to the Sanibel River for some inland, freshwater fishing. Each camper was successful at catching a fish, including bass, bluegill, and also invasive tilapia and cichlids.

“We know that people enjoy the ocean in different ways, which can be through beachcombing, swimming, and even fishing,” said fishing camp coordinator Kealy McNeal. “Since so many people enjoy fishing, we like to teach campers to fish responsibly and to understand fishing from a biological perspective.”

As a Mind Your Line partner, McNeal also shared the importance of removing fishing gear and monofilament from the environment to protect local wildlife. “Birds can become entangled in monofilament, so it is crucial to teach young fisherfolk best fishing practices and the importance of properly discarding fishing gear.”

Sanibel Sea School hosts Calusa Week at Summer Camp

From July 19th through July 23rd, Sanibel Sea School held Calusa Week at their Flagship campus on the east-end of the island. Campers celebrated the Calusa tribe by honing their waterfolk skills, building their own rafts and shelters, weaving palm fronds, and even making tools out of natural materials.

The Calusa people lived in Southwest Florida until the mid-18th century and used the ocean as a primary resource. Evidence suggests that the Calusa did not practice agriculture but instead lived off of the ocean and made their living sailing, fishing, and crafting tools out of mollusk shells.

Artifacts also suggest that the Calusa hollowed out cypress logs to make canoes – some even 15 feet long. To become immersed in how the Calusa used to traverse the waters around Sanibel, campers paddled canoes around San Carlos Bay and even had a few canoe races.

“Calusa week is our most popular week of summer camp,” said Director Nicole Finnicum. “Campers just love learning the history of the Calusa in Southwest Florida and really enjoy paying homage to the tribe by retracing their steps through the activities.” 

Campers also spent time crafting using only materials from nature. They learned how to weave plates out of coconut palm fronds and built tools using sticks, rocks, and twine that they made using fibers from cabbage palms. Campers even built a raft made from palm fronds and bamboo and was held afloat by coconuts.

On Wednesday night, campers continued their island explorations into the evening for a nighttime snorkel. Campers snorkeled in the illuminated water under an almost full moon, finding shrimp, hermit crabs, and sea hares.

Sanibel Sea School rotates through different marine-inspired themes each year, but because Calusa Week is so special to campers and staff, this is the only theme that is repeated every year in July.

Sanibel Sea School has Wet Week of Camp during Tropical Storm Elsa

The first week of July for Sanibel Sea School campers proved to be a wet one. Tropical Storm Elsa passed by the Sanibel coast line on Tuesday and Wednesday morning, creating windy and rainy conditions for the summer camp. With winds forecasted to be near 40mph, Sanibel Sea School staff decided to close camp for the day on Tuesday.

“We’ve never had to cancel camp as a result of a tropical storm or hurricane before,” said Director Nicole Finnicum. “Usually the larger storms come later in the season after camp is over.”

Despite the one-day cancellation, campers were able to be out and about around Sanibel the rest of the week. The rain passed by Wednesday afternoon and campers were back out on the bay surfing in no time.

While out on the beach exploring post-Elsa, campers enjoyed finding many shell treasures and beach debris. They even found a pygmy octopus washed ashore! After a quick look at the octopus’ eight legs and allowing it to crawl atop the camper’s hands, it was safely released back into the sea.

“Since I’ve been on Sanibel, I’ve only ever seen one other octopus wash ashore and it was also after a tropical storm,” said Education Programs Manager Shannon Stainken. “They are not uncommon around Sanibel, they are just very elusive.”

On Thursday night, Plankton Week campers embarked on a night snorkel in search of bioluminescent plankton. As the sun set over the horizon, campers donned their snorkels and began combing through the dark water and seagrass. Some highlights included a batfish, comb jellies, and even a few seahorses!

Sanibel Sea School Receives Grant from Kiwanis Club

Sanibel Sea School recently received a grant from Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Foundation to support summer camp scholarships.

Sanibel Sea School is proud to never turn anyone away from their programs due to financial constraints and believes everyone should have access to an ocean education. Each year, thousands of dollars in scholarships are granted to families in need to attend summer camp.

“We are so thankful for the generous support from the Kiwanis Club because this allows us to share the ocean with people who otherwise wouldn’t be able to experience our programs,” said Sanibel Sea School Director Nicole Finnicum. “This funding means a lot to us after an especially challenging year.”

The scholarship policy is simple, the school just asks that people “pay what they can” and the school is happy to cover the rest, which is funded by generous donations and grants from individuals and organizations like the Kiwanis Club. Scholarships are offered in full and partial amounts and can be applied to any program.

Sanibel Sea School offers scholarships to local, working families on Sanibel, as well as to landlocked families in Ft. Myers. The educators also offer multiple after-school programs to local childcare centers in Ft. Myers, free of charge, where many of the students come from low income families.

Sanibel Sea School Hosts First Week of Camp at Bailey Homestead

Sanibel Sea School officially launched summer camp at the Bailey Homestead on June 21. During “Look it’s a Sea School of Snook,” week, counselors set up their home base under the pavilion on the grounds in the Bailey Homestead Preserve.  

“Campers are really enjoying the experience at the Homestead,” said Marine Science Educator Brianna Machuga. “Setting up our home base at the Homestead has a true remote camp feel to it where we are completely immersed in the nature of Sanibel.”

The inaugural week of camp at the Homestead was all about the iconic Southwest Florida fish, the snook. To learn about snook and other fish, campers did lots of seining and cast netting to get an up-close look at different fish adaptations. A few camp activities highlighted the prominent, black, lateral line that snook exhibit and focused on its function to detect movement and vibrations in the water. Finally, each group took a quick bus ride over to Bunche Beach where they donned snorkels to search for snook hiding in the tangled mangrove roots.

Just like any regular Sanibel Sea School camp, campers at the Homestead visit the beach daily for games, activities related to the theme, and surf paddle practice. Located about a mile from the Flagship campus, the Bailey Homestead offers a perfect remote camp location with a shaded pavilion, access to nature trails, and is just a short drive to the beach.

“Our camp at the Homestead is just another great example of how joining forces with SCCF was a natural fit,” said Sanibel Sea School Director Nicole Finnicum. “Our partnership with SCCF has not only made our administrative operations more efficient, but also has enhanced our summer camp offerings.”

Sanibel Sea School hosts about 30 campers at the Homestead and that are split up into smaller, separate day groups for COVID safety. Each group is led by a lifeguard-certified counselor that is assisted by several counselors in training. Weekly camps at the Homestead and at our Flagship campus will continue throughout the summer.