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583 Third Beach Road. Middletown, RI 02842 401-846-2577 info@normanbirdsanctuary.org [Refuge, Habitat, and Facilities] [Programs, Trails, Tours, and Membership] [Trail Map] [Identifying Bird Songs] [Related Books] [Official Site] |
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The Refuge, Habitat, and Facilities | |
THE REFUGEEstablished in 1949 at the bequest of Mabel Norman Cerio, the Norman Bird Sanctuary preserves and manages 450 acres of land known throughout the region for the beauty of its geographical features and the diversity of its natural habitats. The protection of native plant and animal communities and the preservation of unique land forms found in the refuge are our foremost concerns, but also important is the sharing of this natural resource with our visitors. We maintain a trail system for public use and offer programs in nature study. Through educational programming we hope to enhance your appreciation and knowledge of the natural world. |
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HABITATThe Norman Bird Sanctuary maintains a variety of natural habitats which, in turn, support an abundance of wildlife species. Nearly 30 acres of the Sanctuary's 450 acres are maintained as hay field. Pheasant, nesting song birds, rabbit, and fox are found here. Old fields in various stages of regrowth make-up a second major ecotype. Woodlands are the most prominent plant community. Four craggy ridges made of erosion resistant rock break these woodlands into isolated valleys.
Each Ridge is unique in its topography and plant forms, but all support thriving lichen colonies, dwarfed junipers, and offer numerous picturesque overlooks of ocean and ponds. Beyond the ridges, the land slopes down to brackish marsh. |
FACILITIESThe Sanctuary barn, built over 125 years ago, houses offices, a visitor reception area, Sanctuary store, natural history displays (in progress) and rest rooms. The 'Ed Shed' is our classroom and meeting area. Use of this Building is welcomed by other groups. Call for more information and a fee schedule. |
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Related Books(The Tomorrow Fund, A Rhode Island based Nonprofit Charity For Kids with Cancer, Gets a Portion of Each Book Sold) | |
Click to Order! |
Walks and Rambles in Rhode Island: A Guide to the Natural and Historic Wonders of the Ocean StateWalks and Rambles in Rhode IslandBy Ken Weber A Rhode Island hikers resource for over ten years, Walks and Rambles provides descriptions of forty natural areas including maps, driving directions, and descriptions of sights on the trail. Other important information such as degree of difficulty, time, and best time of year to visit are described as well, making Walks and Rambles a knapsack necessity. The Norman Bird Sanctuary is featured on page 163. |
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More Walks and Rambles in Rhode Island:More Walks and Rambles in Rhode IslandBy Ken Weber If you enjoyed his original Walks and Rambles in Rhode Island, you'll enjoy this companion book with forty additional walks described. These walks include more of the hidden gems of Rhode Island you wouldn't want to miss. |
