Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge

Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge is located in Milton, Delaware approximately 22 miles from Dover to the southeast. It is close to the shore of Delaware Bay. In 1963 the state worked to establish a refuge for migratory birds with the Migratory Bird Conservation Act. Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge is primarily for the protection of birds that exist along the Atlantic Ocean. Freshwater improvements have been made in the area in order to provide clean water to the traveling birds.

A few endangered and threatened species of birds inhabit the area like bald eagles and the peregrine falcon. Delmarva fox squirrels are also common in the refuge. Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge is 10,000 acres with woodland, grassland, salt and fresh water marshes, bottomland forest area, ponds, scrub brush, and agricultural lands. There is also a seven mile long creek. Roughly 267 bird species, 35 reptiles and amphibian species, and 36 mammals inhabit the area.

The refuge is open 30 minutes before sunrise and 30 minutes after sunset. This provides guests with beautiful views of the sun and the parkland. Photography, fishing, wildlife observation, hiking, and environmental education are all a part of a visit to Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge.