John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum

The John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum is located in Philadelphia and Delaware Counties, Pennsylvania, about 1 mile from Philadelphia International Airport. The refuge was established by an act of Congress in 1972 to protect the largest remaining freshwater tidal marsh in Pennsylvania, approximately 200 acres. When acquisition is complete, it will consist of 1,200 acres of varied habitats. Over the years, the refuge has become a resting and feeding area for more than 300 species of birds, 85 of which nest here. Fox, deer, muskrat, turtles, fish, frogs and a wide variety of wildflowers and plants are among the species that call the refuge home. The congressional mandate set forth for the refuge was to protect, preserve and enhance habitat; provide compatible outdoor recreation opportunities for the public; and promote environmental education.