Big Boggy National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Big Boggy National Wildlife Refuge |
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IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
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Location | Matagorda County, Texas, United States |
Nearest city | Bay City, Texas |
Area | 5,000 acres (20 km2) |
Established | 1983 |
Governing body | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
Website | Big Boggy National Wildlife Refuge |
The Big Boggy National Wildlife Refuge is a special place in Texas, USA. It's a protected area for wildlife. You can find it along the coast in southeastern Matagorda County. It's south of the towns of Bay City and Wadsworth. This refuge is right next to a bay, which is protected by a barrier island from the Gulf of Mexico.
The Big Boggy National Wildlife Refuge was created in 1983. It covers about 5,000 acres (20 km2) of land. Most of this land is made up of salt marsh. This is a type of wetland where salty water from the ocean mixes with fresh water.
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What is the Big Boggy National Wildlife Refuge?
The Big Boggy National Wildlife Refuge is mainly a home for birds. It's a safe place where many different bird species can live and thrive. The refuge is not always open to the public. It opens for specific activities, like waterfowl hunting season.
Why are Wildlife Refuges Important?
Wildlife refuges like Big Boggy are very important. They help protect natural habitats. These habitats are where animals find food, water, and shelter. Without these protected areas, many animals might lose their homes.
Protecting Coastal Wetlands
The Big Boggy National Wildlife Refuge is part of a larger group of protected areas. Along the Texas coast, there are three main national wildlife refuges. These are Brazoria, San Bernard, and Big Boggy. Together, they form a huge area of coastal wetlands. These wetlands are super important for many animals.
Home to Many Birds
These three refuges provide a safe haven for over 300 different kinds of birds. This includes many types of waterfowl, shorebirds, and migratory birds. Migratory birds are those that travel long distances each year. They stop at places like Big Boggy to rest and find food.
Who Manages the Refuge?
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages the Big Boggy National Wildlife Refuge. This government agency works to protect wildlife and their habitats across the United States. They make sure the refuge stays a safe place for all the animals that live there.