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U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Return to Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge

Outer Island Unit

Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge
Approximate address for Thimble Islands ferry and Stony Creek boat ramp:
Branford, CT 06405-5707

Outer Island, located off of the coast of Branford, is the southernmost of the Thimble Islands. It was privately owned until 1995 when Elizabeth Hird donated it to the refuge to protect the island’s natural resources and provide access for education and research. This five-acre island, composed of granite outcroppings, boulder and cobble beaches in the intertidal zone, and small salt marshes, provides habitat for migratory birds, marine life and is an important pollinator stopover site.Outer Island is especially popular with families, schools and local day camps. PRO TIP: When visiting Outer Island or other island units, plan your visit at lower tides in order to explore and find creatures in the intertidal zone.Additionally, the island education lab has a Blue Goose Passport stamping station for visitors who would like to obtain an ink stamp for their refuge passport booklets. 

Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge
733 Old Clinton Road
Westbrook, CT 06498-1760
Get directions
860-399-2513
shaun_roche@fws.gov

Refuge Headquarters is located at the Salt Meadow Unit: 733 Old Clinton Road, Westbrook, CT 06498 Fax: 860-399-2515

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