The 4662-acre sanctuaryoccupies the southern three-quarters of Plum Island. More than 800 species of birds, plants and animals reside in its many ecological habitats, including beaches, sand dunes, salt pans, salt marshes, freshwater impoundments and maritime forests.
There are several observation areas that are excellent for spotting shorebirds and waterfowl, including herons and egrets. Large portions of the refuge are closed because they provide an important habitat for the endangered piping plover. Inland, there are freshwater impoundments, as well as an extensive swamp and forest. During spring and fall, you can observe migrating songbirds, including magnificent wood-warblers in the woods. In winter the refuge is a good place to see waterfowl, the rough-legged hawk and snowy owl.
Foot trails allow access to much of the area. Observation towers and platforms dot the trails at prime bird-watching spots.
