Here you are on an island. Much of it has changed but the various townships on the island have made special considerations for preserving public space and setting aside areas of untouched land so that local wildlife and foliage can continue to grow and thrive. Many people that come to Long Beach Island not only come to enjoy the beaches and a good meal but to experience the ocean, sand and dunes in a way that reflects their love and awe of mother nature and the natural environment. The island has two major state preservations. Smaller trails and pockets of natural growth and change can be seen throughout LBI. The preserved areas are great opportunities to observe local birds that come to the area. Each year the preserve in Holgate closes for the breeding of the piping plovers which once were endangered but now have been heartily coming back in population. There are ducks that are rare and can be seen during the colder months on the shores of LBI and the snowy owl visits the preserves during the winter months. Year round seals and horseshoe crabs are spotted along the shores. With some patience (and sometimes the help of binoculars) dolphins, skates and even some whales appear in view.