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Description:
Located 9 miles north of Atlantic City, this complex is composed of two separate Divisions, Barnegat in the north and Brigantine in the south. All public facilities, including the visitor center, are located at the Brigantine unit. Spring and fall migrations bring large numbers of waterfowl, wading birds and shorebirds to rest and feed here. The refuge's extensive wetlands also provide important wintering habitat for waterfowl, especially black ducks and Atlantic brant. Beaches and dunes provide nesting habitat for piping plovers, black skimmers and least terns. Occasionally peregrin falcons, bald eagles and osprey are seen. The refuge habitat consists of coastal salt meadows and marsh, open bays and channels, upland fields and woodlands. Water impoundments are managed to enhance habitat diversity.Recreation and Education-wildlife observation, study and photography; visitor center exhibits (8:00 am to 4:00 pm, weekdays); 8-mile loop drive; two short nature trails; environmental education by advance request; hunting - waterfowl and white-tailed deer; fresh and saltwater fishing; and shellfishing - crabbing and clamming. An entrance fee is collected at the Brigantine Division.
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