description Swanquarter NWR Overview
Swanquarter National Wildlife Refuge is a federally protected coastal area in Hyde County, North Carolina, established in 1932. It encompasses marshes, islands, creeks, and open water along Pamlico Sound, providing habitat for migratory waterfowl, wading birds, fish, and other coastal wildlife. Managed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, it is primarily a wildlife conservation area, with public access shaped by sensitive habitats and water based geography.
insights Ranking position
Swanquarter NWR ranks #95 of 108 in the Swamp ranking, behind Irrawaddy Delta Swamps, ahead of William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge.
help Swanquarter NWR FAQ
Where is the Swanquarter National Wildlife Refuge located?
The refuge is a federally protected coastal area located in Hyde County, North Carolina. It spans a vast area of marshes and islands along the shores of the Pamlico Sound.
When was Swanquarter NWR established?
The wildlife refuge was officially established in 1932. It was created primarily to provide a safe, undisturbed habitat for migrating waterfowl, particularly the lesser snow goose.
What kind of wildlife can be seen at Swanquarter NWR?
The refuge is a critical habitat for migratory waterfowl, wading birds, and shorebirds, as well as various fish and shellfish. Visitors often spot great blue herons, egrets, and various species of ducks in the brackish marshes.
Can the public access Swanquarter NWR?
While large portions of the refuge are closed to the public to protect the sensitive marsh ecosystem, there are designated areas for public use. Visitors can access the area by boat for fishing and birdwatching, and there is a designated fishing pier at Bell Island.
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