Long Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex

Long Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex spans seven refuges and two sub-units across multiple habitat types including beaches, ponds, bogs, marshes, grasslands, and forested areas. The network protects connected landscapes that support diverse wildlife throughout the year.

Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1947 as the foundation of this protection system. The complex has since expanded to encompass multiple areas protecting crucial migration corridors for birds.

The visitor center displays ecosystems and wildlife through dioramas and educational exhibits. Regular programs help people understand how different habitats support the animals living on Long Island today.

Visitors can walk on marked trails through different forest areas and observe or photograph birds in their habitats. The site offers different activities depending on the season, so timing your visit can enhance the experience.

The refuge sits in the middle of a heavily developed urban area yet provides essential resting and wintering areas for hundreds of bird species. This balance between built environment and wild space makes it an important refuge within densely populated surroundings.