Go wild when you explore the wildlife at the parks and wildlife preserves located a few steps away from Block Island rentals. Block Island, off the coast of Rhode Island, is teeming with plant and animal life that gives vast opportunities for wildlife viewing. Step out of your Block Island vacation home early in the morning to explore parks and refuge located in and around the island.
Block Island National Wildlife Refuge
Block Island is noted for having the largest concentration of migratory songbirds in the entire state. With over 70 species visiting the area each fall, the Block Island National Wildlife Refuge becomes the habitats for these birds along with multitude of other animal species. Managed by the Rhode Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex, it also strives to raise awareness among the public with regards to environmental conservation and wildlife preservation. This 127-acre wildlife refuge is home to various animal species, including the endangered American burying beetle, the last of its kind.
Rodman's Hollow
A vast 230-acre outwash basin with glaciers, Rodman's Hollow stands in the southwestern part of the island. This preserve is known for having the largest population of the endangered bushy rockrose. It also serves as a habitat for shadbush, bay berry and arrow wood. The preserve is run and managed in cooperation with the Block Island Conservancy, Town of New Shoreham, Nature Conservancy and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management.
North Light
North Light is one of the lighthouses in the island that not only works as an interpretive center and tourist attraction but is also a good place to view wildlife. This is because the path that leads to this destination, the National Wildlife Sanctuary Trail, is an ideal hiking trail for bird watching and wildlife viewing.
Settler's Rock
Settler's Rock is located near a cobble beach on the island. Here, you'll find a rock that has a plaque marks indicating the landing site of European settles in the 1660s. Aside from being a famed historical landmark, Settler's Rock is also a quiet place where you can hang out and watch birds and other animals.
Arcadia Management Area
Arcadia has the largest management area that covers a total of 13,817 acres. Most of the area is dominated by lush forests while the rest of the preserve is covered with evergreens and fresh water wetlands such as shrub wetlands, marshes and swamps, among many others. Aside from songbirds, you will also see a variety of game bird species like wild turkey, bobwhite and ring-necked pheasant.
Trustom Pond Refuge
This pond refuge, with its 640 acres of habitats such as fields, shrubs, wooded forests, ponds and swamps, is home to over 60 species of wildlife. It is also one of the last east coast nesting sites for the endangered piping plover. It is closed from April to August, which is the nesting season, to avoid disturbing the birds.
If you are planning to have a wonderful vacation in Block Island, visit Vamoose.com to search for rental homes based on your price range, location and personal preference.