the island consists of a combination of sand dunes and salt marshes, woods and meadows, in addition to the salt pond. this mix of habitats supports a wide array of wildlife, mainly shorebirds and wading birds. john's head is a significant nesting area for gulls, eiders, and guillemots. there are two small campsites available for public use (advance permission required for their use by larger groups), and a trail leads to the island's high point.