description Chincoteague NWR Overview
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1943 and occupies the Virginia portion of Assateague Island, along with nearby barrier-island and marsh habitats. Managed primarily for migratory birds, it contains beaches, dunes, maritime forest, freshwater impoundments, and salt marshes. The refuge also provides habitat for the Virginia herd of feral ponies commonly called Chincoteague ponies, which are managed separately by the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company.
insights Ranking position
Chincoteague NWR ranks #37 of 108 in the Swamp ranking, behind Loktak Lake, ahead of Green Swamp.
help Chincoteague NWR FAQ
Is Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge on Chincoteague Island?
Most of the refuge lies on the Virginia portion of Assateague Island, immediately east of Chincoteague Island. Visitors generally reach it by road from the town of Chincoteague.
Are the famous Chincoteague ponies inside the wildlife refuge?
The Virginia herd lives on the southern part of Assateague Island, including refuge land, and is managed by the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company. The ponies are distinct from the Maryland herd managed by the National Park Service.
What birds is Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge known for?
The refuge is managed primarily for migratory birds and supports snow geese, shorebirds, herons, egrets, and waterfowl. Its freshwater impoundments are actively managed to provide feeding and resting habitat.
When was Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge established?
The refuge was established in 1943. It now protects beaches, dunes, salt marshes, maritime forest, and freshwater wetlands on and around Assateague Island.
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