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The Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge protects 2,550 acres of land and water on the south shore of Long Island.
Oak-pine forests, ponds, rivers, bays, fresh, brackish and saltwater marshes attract a wide variety of wildlife.
The Carmans River, a state-designated Wild and Scenic River, enters from the north, meanders through the refuge and empties into the Great South Bay, at the sourthern end of Wertheim. Yaphank Creek, Little Neck Run and Big Fish Creek join the Carmans River within the refuge boundaries.
Wertheim protects one of the last undeveloped estuaries on Long Island. The freshwater of the Carmans River mixes with the saltwater of the Great South Bay to form a critical area for wildlife. The environment supports a remarkable diversity and abundance of aquatic life.
Canoeists can pull off Carmans River at Indian Landing, and use the .75-mile nature trail. There is also a three-mile nature trail that starts by the refuge office.
Visitors can expect to see wildlife at any time, but viewing is best during early morning and while taking a quiet, observant walk or boat trip.
On the forest nature trails, visitors may view deer, fox, opossum, raccoon, squirrels, turkey and a tremendous variety of songbirds, from pine warblers to ovenbirds and scarlet tanagers.
The trail passes through an oak-pine forest with an observation blind overlooking a field and the Carmans River.
Wertheim is an important wintering area for concentrations of black duck and other waterfowl. The refuge serves as an important migration corridor for both water birds and land birds.
Outdoor Activities |
