Hains Point is bound by the Washington Channel to the north and Potomac River to the south, making it an ideal spot for wildlife. Unlike many areas of the National Mall and Memorial Parks, Hains Point has a variety of shrub and herbaceous habitats. These different habitats provide food, cover, and corridors for wildlife, making it important in the urban ecosystem and the most species rich area at the National Mall and Memorial Parks. Hains Point is a favorite spot for bird watching in DC, with over 250 different species of birds observed. The area is home to ground hogs, raccoons, red foxes, with the occasional sighting of a coyote. It is also a hot spot to a variety of reptiles including five-lined skinks, snapping turtles, Eastern rat snakes, and Eastern copperheads. Although Hains Point is an urban park, visitors can help protect the area by following tips that are practiced throughout the National Park Service:
Watch wildlife at a safe distance and do not feed the wildlife, this includes common urban wildlife like squirrels and mallards. All wildlife is protected. Feeding wildlife can put you at risk for zoonotic diseases (Zoonotic Diseases Health & Safety (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov))
Wildlife Proof Trashcans
NPS Photo
Keep wildlife wild and put trash in wildlife proof trash cans and close the lid.
Monofilament Line Recycling Container
NPS Photo
Recycle monofilament and other fishing tackle in provided containers, this keeps it out of waterways and keeps wildlife safe.
