The Ten Thousand Islands NWR protects habitat for some of the most unique species on the continent, including endangered manatees, wood storks and sea turtles. This interesting habitat, consisting of small islands interlaced with small coastal waters, also draws blue-winged teal, mottled ducks, ring-necked ducks and other species each fall. About 4,000 acres are open to hunting, accessible from a parking area at the northern end of the refuge. While hunters can walk into the hunting area, a boat offers the best access. Canoes and johnboats with a 25-horsepower or less motor are permitted. Taking time to learn the refuge is important for success. Only a small number of ducks use the hunting area, and savvy hunters learn the ducks' flight patterns so they can draw these birds into their decoys.
