Flora
and Fauna of the Refuge
While the John Heinz National
Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum is small in size, it is rich in
diversity of flora and fauna. The refuge is strategically
located at the confluence of the Coastal Plain and
the Piedmont Plateau. Plants and animals unique to each area mix
within refuge boundaries.
The refuge also lies at the boundary
between the northern and southern migratory ranges for birds
along the eastern (Atlantic) flyway, which accounts for the high number of
species (over 300) that have been recorded in and around the refuge.
Sadly, this unique mix of habitat
types was not taken into consideration
when, in the 20 years preceding the establishment of the refuge,
its wetlands were plundered in the name of "development." Many
plant and animal species vanished as dredging and filling
operations continued.
Today, though, in the care of the US Fish &
Wildlife Service, there has been a significant return of
wildlife species once thought to be forever lost to us. Over the last few years, we have
seen the return of nesting eagles and egrets, osprey, wild
turkeys, red foxes, clams, shad, and acres upon acres of wild
rice.
We invite you to explore with us all
that we have to offer!
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