A federally listed threatened species, sensitive joint‑vetch, is found within the refuge boundary.  Sensitive joint-vetch is a rare plant found only in freshwater tidal marshes.  Bald eagles, delisted in 2007, nest and roost in significant numbers throughout the refuge boundary area.  In fact, the state’s largest wintering roost for bald eagles is located within the refuge boundary.  

Shorebirds, neotropical migrant songbirds, raptors, and marsh birds rely on the Rappahannock River’s corridors during the spring and fall migration periods.  With help from partners and volunteers, refuge staff are restoring native grasslands and riparian forests along the river and tributary streams to provide additional habitat for these species.   Focus species and species groups for management include bald eagles, forest-interior dwelling species such as wood thrush and Acadian flycatcher, and grassland nesting birds such as grasshopper sparrow and northern bobwhite.