Parker River National Wildlife Refuge

Parker River National Wildlife Refuge
IUCN category IV (habitat/species management area)
View from the top of the dunes trail, center of refuge
Map of the United States Show map of Massachusetts Parker River National Wildlife Refuge (the United States) Show map of the United States
Location	Plum Island (Massachusetts), United States
Nearest city	Newburyport, Massachusetts
Coordinates	42°44′43″N 70°48′28″W / 42.74528°N 70.80778°W / 42.74528; -70.80778
Area	4,662 acres (18.87 km2)
Established	1942
Governing body	U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Website	Parker River National Wildlife Refuge

Parker River National Wildlife Refuge is a wildlife sanctuary encompassing the majority of Plum Island in northeastern Essex County, Massachusetts, 5 miles southeast of Newburyport. It was established in 1942 primarily to provide feeding, resting, and nesting habitats for migratory birds. Located along the Atlantic Flyway, the refuge is of vital stopover significance to waterfowl, shorebirds, and songbirds during migratory periods.

In 1985, The Trust for Public Land added 12 acres to the refuge. Besides providing habitat for birds and wildlife, the pristine coastal habitat is enjoyed by visitors who come to swim, hike, surf, fish, and birdwatch.^[1]