Daniel R. Davis Sanctuary

Welcome to the Daniel R. Davis Sanctuary, a hidden gem nestled at 16 Mount Sinai-Coram Road in Coram, New York. This unique park offers visitors a chance to explore Long Island’s remarkable glacial legacy and discover its rare and fascinating community of plants and animals. As you traverse the 1.4 miles of trails, open from dawn to dusk, you will journey into the heart of a landscape shaped by ancient natural forces.

The sanctuary is a living testament to Long Island’s glacial past, where eight to ten thousand years ago, retreating ice sheets left behind a distinctive environment. The soil here is pure, sugar-like sand, nutrient-poor and acidic, posing a challenging habitat for most plants. Yet, the resilient pine barrens community thrives, featuring pitch pines, scrubby oaks, and blueberries among other acid-loving flora.

As you hike, you’ll notice boundary ditches, relics from the 18th century used by settlers to demarcate property lines before modern surveying instruments were available. The sanctuary’s history is rich with contributions from the Erhardt family, beginning with the donation of its first 40 acres by Mrs. John G. Erhardt and her brother Charles J.R. David in 1964, with further additions in subsequent years.

Observe the unique adaptations of the pitch pine, a tree that embodies survival in harsh conditions. These trees produce flammable oils and resins that encourage wildfires, aiding in their own regeneration. Look for trees with charred bark—evidence of nature’s renewal process. The sanctuary’s periodic fires prevent taller oaks from overtaking the pine barrens, preserving this unique ecosystem.

While bird life is sparse due to the environment’s lack of ecological variety, this scarcity helps maintain the sanctuary’s distinct character. Instead, keep an eye out for small mammals and reptiles that burrow into dirt mounds for shelter. You’ll also find reindeer moss, a shrubby lichen that resembles tiny antlers, carpeting the forest floor.

Owned by The Nature Conservancy, the Daniel R. Davis Sanctuary is part of a network of nearly 1,500 preserves across the United States, protecting wildlife and natural systems while connecting people to the wonders of the natural world. Come and experience the serene beauty and ecological significance of this remarkable sanctuary.