The Shell Factory closed its doors for good on September 29, 2024. This historic, roadside attraction encompassed a gift shop, restaurants, an arcade, a fun park, and a Nature Park that housed over 400 animals.

Since closing its doors, The Shell Factory worked tirelessly to rehome its 400+ animals. Now, they are all safe and sound in their new homes. This massive undertaking was made possible through Shell Factory employees and venues across America who pitched in to save the animals. Some animals traveled as far as Michigan while others stayed close to home.

A few Southwest Florida venues stepped up to keep some of the former Shell Factory residents local. Nan’s Ranch, a sanctuary that works with Lee County Jail inmates, rehomed opened their doors to two ring-tailed lemurs, two coatimundi, a three-banded armadillo, and a bare-eyed cockatoo.

Blossom & Brie, a farm and event venue in North Fort Myers, happily rehomed Moo , a 13 year-old, 1,600 lb steer.

The Wonder Gardens in Bonita Springs adopted Rita, a Keel-billed toucan, Dusty, a Moluccan cockatoo, a blue-crowned pigeon, a violet tiraco, and five aquatic turtles.

So many SWFL residents grew up visiting the Nature Park at the Shell Factory, and some have been fortunate enough to bring their children or grandchildren there to have the same experience. The closing of the Shell Factory was an emotional announcement for those who have visited. Keeping some of the Nature Park’s animals locally will help keep a little piece of the Shell Factory alive here in SWFL.

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