Established June 1, 1944, this barrier beach island refuge extends south from the elbow of Cape Cod. It consists of three islands: a portion of Morris Island, accessible by causeway, and north and south Monomoy Islands accessible by boat only. Most of the Monomoy Islands are designated as Wilderness Area. The Refuge is managed as a wilderness area for migratory birds, including the threatened piping plover. It is a major staging area for the endangered roseate tern. Harbor and gray seals haul out on refuge beaches in winter. The use of these areas for recreational purposes may not violate their primary purpose as a bird sanctuary.
