Norman Bird Sanctuary, Protected nature area in Middletown, Rhode Island, United States.
Norman Bird Sanctuary is a protected nature preserve in Middletown, Rhode Island, spanning 325 acres with diverse habitats including meadows, woodlands, and freshwater ponds. Miles of walking trails wind through the property, connecting visitors to the varied landscapes and wildlife throughout the year.
The sanctuary was established through a 1949 bequest that transformed a working farm with roots in the early 1700s into a protected space. This conversion marked a shift from agricultural use to wildlife conservation and education.
The sanctuary serves as a gathering place where visitors and school groups experience wildlife up close and learn about protecting natural habitats. It has become central to the community's connection with the land and its creatures.
The site is located along Third Beach Road and offers trails suitable for different activity levels, from easy walks to more demanding hikes. Wear sturdy shoes and bring weather-appropriate gear, especially when exploring the wetter areas near the ponds and marshes.
A 1755 Colonial farmhouse stands on the property with distinctive five-bay architecture and a central chimney, now recognized by the National Register of Historic Places. This well-preserved building offers a direct window into the area's past.
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