Auction features final Sprankle pin
The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge (DDWS) reported that each year the most desired, most treasured auction item at its Go Wild for “Ding” fundraiser has been a bird feather pin carved and signed by world-famous wildlife sculptor Jim Sprankle. The winner becomes a member of the exclusive Flock of the Feather, which meets for special celebrations. This year, the prize was even more special because “Feather Jim” carved it before his passing in September as the final Sprankle feather: a roseate spoonbill feather. On Feb. 4, one lucky bidder took home the final remembrance of beloved Feather Jim — this one specially framed so it can be opened to remove the feather to wear. The DDWS extended a thank you to Sanibel Art & Frame for designing and creating the unique frame.