The Great Swamp Wildlife Refuge's 6,800 acres are dedicated to the preservation, restoration, and enhancement of all species of animals and plants that are endangered or threatened with becoming endangered. The refuge is required to consider endangered species in developing and implementing management activities.

Management activities for threatened and endangered species are highly varied. They range from habitat enhancement to captive propagation, transplantation, predator control, applied research, population monitoring, and law enforcement. Habitat management practices for endangered and threatened species include: protection from disturbance, prescribed burning, silviculture, grazing, water level management and control of exotic vegetation. Population management practices include: nest site protection, predator control, transplanting, captive propagation, disease control and control of exotic animals.

Since the arrival of the Pilgrims in 1620, over 500 species and subspecies of plants and animals have become extinct. The Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is another crucial link to the success of national conservation efforts.

• Come out in the early morning dawn dampness or early evening dusk for optimal bird and wildlife viewing.