Dauphin Island is a barrier island located three miles south of the mouth of Mobile Bay in the Gulf of Mexico.  Entry to the island is made by crossing a three mile long high rise bridge which was opened in July, 1982.   An automobile ferry from the eastern shore also offers an entry point on the eastern end of the island. The island is approximately 14 miles long and 1 ¾ miles wide at the widest point.  The eastern six miles are inhabited while the western 8 miles are undeveloped and privately owned.  It is estimated that 1,300 permanent residents call Dauphin Island home.  The number of residents soars during vacation and holiday times.  The entire island has been designated as a bird sanctuary, and thousands of visitors come to experience the annual migrations.  Dauphin Island is the first landfall encountered by many birds as they migrate north from South America, and as a consequence many species can be found resting there before continuing their journey.