Parkers Marsh Natural Area Preserve facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Parkers Marsh Natural Area Preserve |
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 Parkers Marsh Natural Area Preserve
Location in Virginia
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| Location | Accomack County, Virginia |
| Nearest city | Onancock |
| Area | 759 acres (307 ha) |
| Governing body | Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation |
Parkers Marsh Natural Area Preserve is a special natural area in Accomack County, Virginia. It covers about 759 acres (which is like 575 football fields!). This preserve is located right along the beautiful Chesapeake Bay.
It's a really important place because it has many different types of natural homes, called habitats. You can find sandy beaches, wet marshes, bushy shrublands, and green forests here. These different areas provide a safe home for many kinds of plants and animals.
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Discover Parkers Marsh Natural Area Preserve
Parkers Marsh is mostly made up of saltmarsh. This is a special type of wetland where salty water from the bay mixes with fresh water. It's a unique environment that many plants and animals need to survive.
Plants of the Preserve
In the higher, drier parts of the preserve, you might find plants like marsh elder and black cherry trees. These grow on old sand dunes. There are also tall loblolly pines. Some lower dunes are home to different types of grasses.
Amazing Animals You Might See
Parkers Marsh is a fantastic place for wildlife.
- Peregrine Falcons: These fast birds have been nesting here since 1998. They are known for their incredible diving speed!
- Saltmarsh Sparrows: This rare bird has also been seen nesting at the preserve. It's a special bird that relies on saltmarshes for its home.
- Northeastern Beach Tiger Beetle: On the sandy beaches, you might spot this unique beetle. It's considered a threatened species in the United States, meaning it needs protection to survive.
A Special Place for Birds
Parkers Marsh Natural Area Preserve is part of something called an "Important Bird Area" (IBA). The National Audubon Society, a group that cares about birds, gave it this special title. This means the preserve is very important for many different bird species.
The "Delmarva Bayside Marshes IBA" includes Parkers Marsh and other nearby natural areas. These places work together to protect birds and their habitats.
Visiting Parkers Marsh Preserve
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation owns and takes care of Parkers Marsh Natural Area Preserve. They work hard to keep it safe for nature.
You can visit the preserve, but it's a bit of an adventure! You can only get there by boat. There are no docks or special paths, so it's a true wilderness experience. If you plan to visit, it's a good idea to contact a state land steward first. They can give you tips and information to make your visit safe and fun.
