Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge

Welcome back, everyone! I’m trying my best to get back up to speed on some backlogged articles that have built up on me. This one today is going to be about a trip I took at the end of September to Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge in Shirley, NY.

It was still pretty warm for as close to Fall as the days were growing and Steven and I had decided to take a quick trip after work one night since the prior weekend had been a washout. By the time we reached the park, it was already slightly after 5 pm and the sky was starting to lose its sunny glow but we were determined to make the most of the time we had. When first pulling into the parking area, which is very large with plenty of parking spaces, you are greeted by a large red building which is the Complex Headquarters as well as the US Fish and Wildlife services. Out front, there are several areas to read up information on the park, conservation, flora and fauna as well as handouts and park maps. We eagerly approached the trail, not wanting to waist a moment of sunlight.

The trail entrance is marked with a map, an area to pick up more information handouts, as well as an observation area. Before heading out on our trail we took the opportunity to enjoy the magnificent vista of the viewing area which allows for a peek into both a dense area of woods as well as an otherwise hidden view of the Carmans River. A Hooded Merganser groomed itself on a submerged log at the far side of the shimmering water and American Robins echoed their calls throughout the woods. A sprawling shadow spread across the shore as a Great Blue Heron sored overhead and we headed back to the trailhead to begin our hike.

Knowing that we were short on time we decided to follow the shorter of the two trails, the Black Tupelo Trail. The Trail is named for a very special type of tree living within the refuge. “The black tupelo, or black gum, is a tree of great importance in these woodlands. Though it is not the dominant tree type in this oak/pine woodland, its presence still provides numerous benefits to wildlife. As one of the oldest species of tree in this area, capable of living well over 650 years, each tree can have a large and lengthy impact on its surroundings. These trees are identifiable by their simple oblong leaves about 5 inches long and light brown deeply furrowed bark. The black tupelo is one of the first trees to start changing colors in the fall; scientists believe this early color change helps alert birds to their newly ripening fruit. The small, ovoid, fleshy fruit is one of the first berries to ripen and provides an important food source to migrating birds and overwintering residents. Its flowers are an important source of nectar and pollen for honey making bees.”-US Fish and Wildlife Services.

Again American Robins seemed to flood the forest from every tree and every shrub. A Dark-eyed Junco sat quietly alone nestled within the tangles of a brambly bush alongside the trail. I found myself trying to come up with the perfect way of describing this park as I walked, but there were so many aspects to speak of. You managed to feal isolated shortly after setting off down the trail and yet the trails were beautifully maintained and studded with benches to rest upon. There were thousands of trees and yet the sun managed to find its way in to light the paths and create an air of security. Blue Jays shrieked as they hopped from one branch to another, watching us as we walked along on our way towards Indian Landing, the pinnacle of this particular trail. Indian Landing is an area where the trail loops along the shore accessing the Carmans River allowing for some breathtaking views and some great wildlife viewing opportunities! As we grew closer enormous nests, presumably those of Osprey, topped baron trees and nesting poles and a lone Merlin, a lifebird for me, rested atop a twisting broken branch.

Finally, we turned the corner or thick brambles into the clearing of Indian Landing. The view was breathtaking and otherworldly despite its limited size, like a hidden respite for our eyes alone. The sun was continuing to lose its fight to the growing shadows and hints of pink washed through the clouds above the glistening water. An American Black Duck glided silently across the still mirrored surface as a Northern Harrier cut through the sky. Blue Claw Crabs toiled away in the shallows at our feet and a pair of mallards landed from the horizon. We stood silently watching every rusting leaf and drifting stick, waiting for the next arrival. A Great Egret took to the sky from beyond the wall of reeds and a Double-Crested Cormorant drifted out from its cover along the shore. Despite our longing to stay there was still a looming long walk back and a rapidly setting sun hanging over our heads and we forced ourselves to take one last look and get back moving. A Red-Bellied Woodpecker drilled at a tree along the start of the trail back and only a few steps along a large White-Tailed Deer and fawn emerged from the shrubs and froze, staring at us as we walked.

Our walk back to the park entrance was far more about beating out the setting sun then it was about taking photos… sadly. But we did manage to spot a few more deer, an American Robin, and a Mourning Dove. By the time we reached the original viewing platform, it was nearly dark, but I could not resist one last look before leaving.

Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge truly is one of the highlights of Long Islands outdoors. Every time I go here there is something new to see and a new story to tell. It is a park that has the ability to always allow you to feel alone in the wilderness no matter how many other people are around. The park is well kept and isolated enough to truly allow for some peace and quiet without having to travel far from home. After years of birding, I am always excited to report on a trip that involves a Lifebird for me but this park truly is one that deserves to be recognized and visited, there really isn’t another place like it on the island. Until next time my friends, Happy Birding.

For more Long Island Birding content, visit my Facebook Page!

•