Shells and Shelling

Finding, collecting, and identifying seashells is one of the most popular pastimes on Sanibel Island and the area’s beaches. Many people like to clean, shine, and display their treasures. Facebook pages and websites abound that are dedicated to the crafts and artwork that can be made with shells.

Experienced shellers will usually provide anyone who asks with tips and tricks of their hobby. Again, Facebook pages and websites, books and field guides, and the Bailey Matthews National Shell Museum are all good sources of information. I will share a few of my best tips here.

The best locations to start, of course, are the beaches of Sanibel Island, Fort Myers, and Captiva Island. The best time of day or night to find shells is at low tide for that particular area. Conditions around a full moon can create what are called negative low tides, when more of the beach and the floor of the Gulf are exposed. Also, the hours and days immediately following a storm bring many beachcombing finds ashore as high winds and heavy rain result in powerful waves.

A word to the wise: “LIVE” SHELLS—that is, those still inhabited by the animals that create them and use them as homes—ARE PROTECTED BY LAW. DO NOT REMOVE THEM FROM THEIR PREFERRED HABITAT. Photograph them if you wish. Handle them gently, if you must, but please, RETURN THEM QUICKLY TO THE PLACE YOU FOUND THEM. Unoccupied shells are the ones you can legally collect, and as of this writing, there is no limit to the number of those you are allowed to take.

Tips for cleaning, identifying, and transporting shells will be covered in more detail in subsequent blogs. Happy Hunting!