Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge |
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IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
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Carmans River Estuary as it flows through Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge
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 Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge
Location in New York
Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge
Location in the United States
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| Location | Long Island, New York |
| Nearest city | Shirley / Brookhaven (CDP) |
| Area | 2,550 acres (10.3 km2) |
| Established | 1947 |
| Governing body | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Website | Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge |
The Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge is a special natural area on the south shore of Long Island, New York. It's one of the few untouched river systems left on Long Island. This refuge helps protect the Carmans River Estuary, which is a vital place for many migratory birds that travel long distances.
In 1947, a kind person named Maurice Wertheim gave about 2,000 acres (around 8 square kilometers) of land to the United States government. This land then became the Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge. Its main goal is to keep this important river area safe for all the wildlife that lives there or passes through.
Contents
Discover Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge
The Wertheim Refuge is home to many different types of natural areas, called habitats. You can find oak-pine woodlands, open grasslands, and various kinds of wetlands. These wetlands include areas with fresh water, slightly salty water (brackish), and full salt water.
These different habitats are perfect for a wide range of animals. You might spot white-tailed deer, majestic osprey, busy muskrats, clever foxes, slow-moving turtles, jumping frogs, and many types of fish. The refuge is also a safe haven for waterfowl (like ducks and geese), shorebirds, powerful raptors, and beautiful songbirds.
Explore the Visitor Center
In 2012, something new opened at the Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge. The Long Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex built a new visitor center and headquarters right here. This building is a great place to learn more about the refuge.
Inside, you'll find an interactive exhibit hall. This means you can touch and explore things to learn about nature. There's also a special classroom for environmental education. This is where groups can come to learn about wildlife and conservation.
Amazing Animals of the Refuge
The Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge is bursting with different kinds of animals. It's especially famous for its birds. There are about 300 different species of birds that have been seen at the refuge!
Birds That Call It Home
During the colder months, up to 5,000 waterfowl spend their winter here. Many of these are black ducks, a type of duck that needs our help because their numbers are going down. Because the refuge is right on the coast, it's a perfect stop for birds during their long migrations. This includes many shorebirds, powerful raptors, and cheerful songbirds as they travel between their summer and winter homes.
