These keys are unpopulated and are also designated as Wilderness within the Florida Keys Wilderness. The refuge was established to provide a preserve and breeding ground for native birds and other wildlife as well as to provide habitat and protection for endangered and threatened fish, wildlife, plants and migratory birds.
These keys remain uninhabited and are also classified as Wilderness within the Florida Keys Wilderness. The refuge was created to provide a sanctuary and nursery for native birds and other wildlife, which is similar to serving as a habitat and protection for endangered and threatened species.