Oaks and hickories and an understory of dogwoods are found in well-drained upland areas. Sweet gum, red maple, and beech have done well in poorly drained soils. Young trees among older stands of different species are growing where trees have fallen and created a gap in the leafy canopy that light can penetrate to nourish new growth. Most imposing of all the trees is a stand of tulip trees, among the tallest species in our Eastern forests. Their thick, straight trunks are easy to identify.
Dogwoods are the most numerous tree species in the understory throughout the Woods.
Spring wildflowers are abundant in this tract. Along the Stony Brook flood plain you will see beds of yellow trout lilies, light pink spring beauties, and purple violets. Mayapples carpet the uplands at this time, while wild yellow iris can be found in the wet areas of the Refuge. As noted, birds are by far the major wildlife attraction here. Normally, the Woods are home to some 42 species.