When you think of Long Island, perhaps beaches, wineries, and lighthouses spring to mind. But did you know it's also home to a wealth of wildlife and offers an array of incredible animal encounters? Let's discover some of Long Island's best-kept animal secrets.

Sweetbriar Nature Center

Sweetbriar Nature Center in Smithtown is a wildlife preserve offering rehabilitation to injured wildlife. Their mission includes educating the public about Long Island's native plants and animals. A visit here will give you the chance to see birds of prey, reptiles, and mammals.

The Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium

Located in Cold Spring Harbor, the Fish Hatchery & Aquarium boasts two aquarium buildings and eight outdoor ponds. Discover freshwater fish, frogs, turtles, and other aquatic life as you explore this local treasure.

Holtsville Ecology Site and Animal Preserve

The Holtsville Ecology Site and Animal Preserve is a unique park featuring a zoo with about 100 injured or non-releasable wild animals, including goats, bears, and bald eagles.

Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation

The Riverhead Foundation dedicates itself to preserving marine life on Long Island. They offer seal cruises and provide an opportunity to adopt a seal or sea turtle, assisting with their care and eventual release back into the wild.

Long Island Game Farm

Offering up-close and personal interactions with animals, the Long Island Game Farm has been a favorite spot for families since 1970. Here, you can pet kangaroos, feed giraffes, and learn about various other animals from around the world.

Atlantis Marine World

Atlantis Marine World in Riverhead gives a deeper insight into marine life with its fascinating exhibits, interactive sea lion shows, and even shark diving experiences!

These are just a few of the ways you can experience Long Island's wilder side. Each visit supports these organizations' efforts to protect and preserve our local wildlife. So why not plan a day of adventure and animal encounters that will create lasting memories and help preserve Long Island's incredible biodiversity?