Gray seals are less common but are present year-round, usually on the outer islands. Harbor porpoises, finback and minke whales, and endangered right whales occasionally explore the bays seeking the rich supply of fish and invertebrates providing by ocean upwellings near islands and ledges. On Petit Manan Point and some of the larger islands deer, bobcats, foxes, coyotes, porcupines, snowshoe hares, beaver and raccoons are common. Moose and black bear are also sometimes seen. Managing for Wildlife Habitat protection is the most important management goal for these refuges, but refuge staff also actively manage certain areas and populations for key species in need of help.
Biologists monitor population trends and nesting success for many species.
On Petit Manan Point blueberry fields are burned on a three-year rotation to keep areas open for courting woodcock and to provide a food source for deer, whimbrels, ruffed grouse and a variety of songbirds. Hayfields are mowed periodically for similar purposes. Some of the freshwater marshes on the Point are managed to provide optimum waterfowl habitat. The water level in former cranberry bogs is raised or lowered to create additional food and nest sites. Nest boxes are placed in the marshes, providing safe, dry nest cavities for wood ducks and hooded mergansers as well as songbirds.