Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge Vero Beach Florida

When the great President Teddy Roosevelt learned that they were slaughtering hundreds of white egrets on Pelican Island, for their beautiful feathers to adorn women’s hats, it came into question, was there any law from preventing him from making the island a federal reserve?  When told there was nothing to stop him, he slammed his fist down on his desk and said, “I declare it!!”, and quickly signed the executive order. This was the 1st of 51 bird reserves he would create during his presidency.  Today, Pelican Island is a honor and a pleasure to visit the egrets and pelicans,   flourishing, diving and sunning their beautiful wings. Come join our feathered friends, sun bathe on the beautiful beaches, and enjoy guided boat tours..

Experience history and fun off Route 1.