Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge provides an important stopover and wintering area for migratory birds.

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A banded piping plover feeds on invertebrates in the intertidal zone.
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A view of the ocean from land. In the distance is a water and rocky shore. In the foreground is a large rock formation and green vegetation
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Visit Us

If you are looking for colorful, easy to see birds, then Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge is the place to be. The refuge is home to the second largest wintering population of harlequin ducks on the Atlantic coast. The harlequins, named after the clowns they resemble, can be seen along the refuge’s rocky shoreline between November and March each year. By scanning the coastline, visitors may also see loons, eiders, and gannets. More than 200 bird species visit the refuge seasonally, and other occasional migrating travelers include the peregrine falcon, northern harrier, as well as snowy and short-eared owls.

Walking the nearly 3 miles of trails around Sachuest Point offers visitors the opportunity to experience several habitats where interesting animals and plants can be observed and photographed. The refuge includes 40 acres of salt marsh salt marsh
Salt marshes are found in tidal areas near the coast, where freshwater mixes with saltwater.

Learn more about salt marsh lands and steep rocky shorelines around the perimeter. Most visitors enjoy year-round birdwatching, and elevated observation platforms along the trails provide unobstructed views of the refuge. A short distance away at Third Beach is our recently restored salt marsh habitat, a new birding "hotspot" and a favorite of birders and non-birders alike. In addition, Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge is renowned for its fantastic saltwater fishing, and has an active night fishing permit system.

A stop at the visitor center is an ideal way to begin or end a trail walk. Volunteers, staff, and creative exhibits are available to visitors and provide another way to explore Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge.

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      Our Species

      Grey, white and black bird on sand in the foreground

      Size: 18 cm (7.25 in) in length. Color: Breeding season: Pale brown above, lighter below; black band across forehead; bill orange with black tip; legs orange; white rump. Male: Complete or incomplete black band encircles the body at the breast. Female: Paler head band; incomplete breast band....

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