Edith G. Read Wildlife Sanctuary

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Located on the shore of the Long Island Sound, along a migratory flyway, this 179-acre sanctuary is home to a great diversity of marine life.

In winter months, the 85-acre lake, a mixture of salt and fresh water, hosts over 5,000 ducks. The sanctuary has been recognized by the national Audubon Society of New York as an Important Bird Area due to its significant habitats and flyway.

There are three miles of trails through forest and field. Along the half-mile of publicly accessible shore, the intertidal habitat harbors a wide diversity of plants and animals.

Maps and information are available at the nature center. The building also houses a small number of exhibits on the ecology of the area. Checklists of seasonally distinct bird species are also available.

Amenities
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Wheelchair accessibleParkingRest roomsDrinking waterDogs are not permitted at any time.Stay on trailsSwimming prohibited signNo campfiresNature studyBird sanctuaryPlease recycle
  • Admission and fees
    • County park pass is not required for admission.
    • Access to Read Sanctuary and kayak launch is possible by becoming a member of the Friends of Read Wildlife Sanctuary Inc., a non-profit group associated with the nature preserve. Members are issued a bar-coded membership card that allows access via the Playland parking lot. This access is for the sanctuary and launch only. Applications are available at the sanctuary or online at the Friends of Read Wildlife Sanctuary membership page.
    • Read Parking fee: effective May through October.
  • Directions: Playland Parkway, Rye, NY 10580
  • Nature Center hours: Closed on Friday, March 3. Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday, not available on Wednesdays due to field studies. Trails are open every day dawn to dusk.
  • Phone: (914) 967-8720
  • Restrooms: Portable potties available daily year-round. Main building available daily during regular park hours.
  • County parks map & guide
  • Museum
  • Service animals welcome.