East End-Based Wildlife Refuge To Host Annual Winter Illuminated Nighttime Hike

On Saturday, January 28th, the Quogue Wildlife Refuge (QWR) is illuminating its forest trails for an enchanting winter gathering.

After the sun fades away for the day, participants may embark on QWR’s 4th Annual Light the Night, a serene winter self-guided hike through the Refuge’s lightly lit paths. Attendees will enjoy the great outdoors during the peaceful evening experience that will mostly likely include a few special sightings of the magnificent residents that call the QWR home.

“The Quogue Wildlife Refuge is a 305 acre non-profit Nature Preserve which houses rehabilitated wildlife, including owls and other native birds and mammals,” noted Kimberly Stever of Quogue Wildlife Refuge. “The 4th Annual Light the Night is a magical winter event and a great way for families to get out and enjoy nature!”

Attendees are asked to arrive between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m., and may stroll through the trails until 7:30 p.m. Since it is winter and it’ll likely be a bit brisk out, guests are invited to the Nature Center to warm up by the cozy fireplace with some hot cocoa and cookies.

Light the Night Winter Trail Walks is open to all ages. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children 12-years-old and under. It is recommended that you register for the Walk in advanced, but walk-ins are welcome.

“All of the funds raised support the Refuge’s daily operations,” added Stever.

Established in 1934, the Quogue Wildlife Refuge is home to diverse wildlife, some of which are permanently injured and rely human care to survive. Open all year round, QWR offers seven miles of trails that cover assorted habitats such as forests and ponds, as well as the ecologically rare Dwarf Pines in the Pine Barrens. Refuge Outdoor Wildlife Complex residents include a bald eagle, owls, falcons, hawks and other native New York animals. These treasured animals may be visited at the Refuge any time of the year.

Quogue Wildlife Refuge is located at 3 Old Country Road in Quogue. For more information, call 631-653-4771 or visit quoguewildliferefuge.org.