In some places, the wilderness must be managed to protect the indigenous threatened or endangered species. Volunteers cut red maples to limit shade in areas inhabited by the bog turtle, to satisfy its preference for socializing in the sun. In other areas, habitat is left undisturbed, but local animal populations are monitored. Every winter, a team of volunteers is lead out on foot over the frozen swamp to service the 300 wood duck boxes maintained by the refuge. The swamp is a stopping point for about 250 migrating species of birds: the World Series of Birders has held competitions in the swamp on account of the variety of species.
