Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge

Chincoteague NWR, Chincoteague, Virginia: Best known for the annual wild pony round-ups immortalized in Marguerite Henry’s children’s book Misty of Chincoteague, Chincoteague Refuge is equally important for its role as a home for endangered and threatened wildlife. Sand dune stabilization projects, which include protective fencing and native plant restoration, are key factors in providing habitat for endangered Delmarva Peninsula fox squirrels and piping plovers. In summer, refuge staff and volunteers take visitors on a wildlife safari to places not ordinarily open to the public. There is also a boat cruise around the island to watch shorebirds feeding and roosting.