Wertheim National Wildilfe Refuge

Welcome to Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge, a saltwater marsh oasis located on Long Island’s south shore not far from the bustling Big Apple.

Refuge History: The land that is now Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge has a long history. Before the arrival of European settlers Native Americans such as the Unkechaug tribe whaled and fished in the waters here. In 1667, the whaling industry took off when European settlers paid the Unkechaug’s for every whale that they killed. Fire’s at Fire Place Neck and Long’s Point helped guide the Whaling Vessels here. Soon the land fell into the hands of Cecile and Maureen Wertheim who managed it as a private hunting reserve. In 1947, the Wertheim Family donated the land to the Fish and Wildlife Service and an additional parcel was acquired in 1974 under the Migratory Bird Conservation Act and Refuge Recreation Act. In 1998 a 128 acre parcel was added and an additional 19 acre parcel was added in 1999.

Flora and Fauna: Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge helps protect the home of numerous plant and animal species. Some of the plants that grow inside the refuge boundaries include pines, black oaks, white oaks, red oaks, lowbush blueberries, honeysuckles, dogwoods, and many others. Some of the wild animals who call this place home include deer, foxes, squirrels, raccoons, bats, box turtles, milk snakes, and many birds such as ospreys, seagulls, mockingbirds, warblers, blue jays, Carolina wrens, flycatchers, and many others. Please treat their home with respect.

For the lover of the outdoors Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge boasts numerous fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities. Come on out and have a blast!