Oyster Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Marine wildlife sanctuary in Nassau County, United States.
Oyster Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area spanning 3,200 acres of marine habitats that includes salt marshes, tidal flats, and estuarine waters. The refuge stretches along Long Island's north shore and contains interconnected ecosystems.
The refuge was established in 1968 when the Town of Oyster Bay donated the land, securing the area surrounding the historic Sagamore Hill estate. This founding marked a key step in protecting the regionally important marine environment.
The waters maintain the last commercial oyster farming operation on Long Island, an activity that has shaped the local coastal identity for generations. Visitors can still observe this working tradition in the shallow bays.
The refuge is accessible only by boat, and visitors need a Town of Oyster Bay permit to enter the shallow water areas. The best time to explore is during calm conditions with good visibility for wildlife viewing.
Between October and April, winter surveys record over 20,000 waterfowl gathering in these waters, including black ducks, scaup, and canvasback species. This seasonal concentration makes it a favored destination for birdwatchers from the region.
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