description Patuxent Research Refuge Overview
Patuxent Research Refuge is a National Wildlife Refuge in Maryland located between Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, established in 1936 by executive order of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. It is the only unit of the National Wildlife Refuge System specifically created to support wildlife research, and historically housed the Patuxent Wildlife Research Center. The refuge encompasses forest, meadow, and wetland habitats along the Patuxent River watershed.
help Patuxent Research Refuge FAQ
Where is Patuxent Research Refuge?
The refuge is in central Maryland between Washington, D.C., and Baltimore. It includes forest, wetlands, and open habitat around the Patuxent River basin.
When was Patuxent Research Refuge established?
President Franklin D. Roosevelt established it by Executive Order 7514 on December 16, 1936. It was created specifically as a wildlife experiment and research refuge.
Why is Patuxent Research Refuge unusual among US wildlife refuges?
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service describes Patuxent as the only National Wildlife Refuge established specifically to support wildlife research. Research has included Whooping Crane rearing, DDT movement through food chains, and the effects of sound and light on diving ducks.
What wildlife can visitors see at Patuxent Research Refuge?
The refuge protects large areas of unbroken forest used by species such as the Scarlet Tanager and Wood Thrush. The [U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service](https://www.fws.gov/refuge/patuxent-research/about-us) says the refuge welcomes more than 200,000 visitors per year.
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