The common names of our area’s best-known shells are the angel wing (a clam that burrows deeply in the mud), the banded tulip (a snail shell shaped like an unopened tulip), and the lightning whelk (lightning-like color streaks). You’ll see shore birds nesting on mangrove islands, manatees and their calves grazing the sea grasses (from May through October) and dolphins enjoying the bay’s protected waters for raising their young.

Caution should be taken if shelling in Big Pass as currents can be fairly strong.

North Lido Beach’s less populated shore is another excellent location.

Guided Tour

Sarasota Bay Explorers - Offering sea life encounter cruises, guided kayak tours and a nature safari, the staff is friendly and informative on the history and wild life of the bay. The nature safari is (hands on find, your own creatures) while the sea life encounter is for those less interested in touching a creature. The biologist led experience provides interesting information and a cruise on the bay is a spectacular way to spend an afternoon.

Identifying your shells:

The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum has a great online shell guide that will help you recognize the various pieces in your collection. To browse shells commonly found in South West Florida, Click: HERE.

   
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