Jamaica Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Gateway National Recreation Area
Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn, NY 11234
(718) 318 4340
http://www.nps.gov/gate/

This major refuge encompasses 9,155 acres of diverse habitats, including salt marsh, upland field and woods, several fresh and brackish water ponds, and an open expanse of bay and islands. It is internationally renowned as a prime birding spot where thousands of water, land and shorebirds stop during migration.

Over the years the refuge has been managed carefully to support a large variety of animals, and new animals and plant life have also been introduced.

This is a great place for individuals and families to observe wildlife. As well as shorebirds, raptors will be found here, as will many different mammals such as opossum, various bats, jackrabbit, muskrat, chipmunk, and others. The last mink was sited here in 1974, though there may still (hopefully) be a few. Reptiles, like turtles and many varieties of snakes also call Jamaica Bay home. 

Trails, benches, blinds and gardens make it quite human-friendly. A Visitor Center provides maps, guides, trail brochures, and a display room. Park Rangers give interpretive talks and lead nature walks on a year-round basis. Evening walks, birding workshops, and many other activities are offered on a seasonal basis.

Though a popular place for school programs, many are conducted by naturalists brought in by the school itself.

Teachers interested in conducting a program here should call the Chief Ranger for details. The possibilities are almost unlimited here, and the chances of being "crowded out" are slim. With admission being free, the cost is low, and any programs delivered by refuge personnel will either be free or very reasonable priced.