Camas National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Camas National Wildlife Refuge |
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IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
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 Camas National Wildlife Refuge
Location in the United States
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| Location | Jefferson County, Idaho, United States |
| Nearest city | Hamer, Idaho |
| Area | 10,578 acres (42.81 km2) |
| Established | 1937 |
| Governing body | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Website | Camas National Wildlife Refuge |
The Camas National Wildlife Refuge is a special protected area in southeastern Idaho. It was created in 1937 to provide a safe home for many kinds of wildlife. About half of the refuge is covered by lakes, ponds, and marshlands. The other half has grassy areas, sagebrush uplands, meadows, and farm fields. Camas Creek flows right through the middle of the refuge.
This refuge is managed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. They work hard to keep the land and water healthy for all the animals. They use different methods to help wildlife, especially birds.
Contents
What Animals Live Here?
The Camas National Wildlife Refuge is home to many different animals. You can find several types of mammals living here.
Mammals of the Refuge
Some of the mammals you might spot include coyotes, pronghorn (which look a bit like deer), and even large animals like moose and elk. Smaller creatures like porcupines, white-tailed deer, cottontail rabbits, muskrats, and weasels also make their homes here. Each animal plays an important role in the refuge's ecosystem.
How the Refuge is Managed
Managing the water and land is very important at Camas Refuge. The people who run the refuge use special methods to help the wildlife.
Water Management
Water is key for the animals, especially for birds that nest here. The refuge has a big system of canals, dikes, wells, and ponds. They also use structures to control how much water is in different areas. This helps create the perfect watery homes for nesting waterfowl (birds that live near water).
Land Management
To keep the land healthy, the refuge uses different techniques. They might cut hay in some fields. They also use something called a prescribed fire. This is a carefully planned fire that helps clear out old plants and allows new, healthy ones to grow. This helps keep the habitat good for animals.
Food for Wildlife
The refuge also grows small grain crops in some areas. These crops provide extra food for birds like geese and cranes. This helps them stay healthy and also stops them from eating crops on nearby private farms.
A Haven for Birds
Camas National Wildlife Refuge is especially famous for its many birds. It's a very important stop for birds traveling long distances.
Bird Migration Hotspot
During spring (March-April) and fall (October), the refuge becomes a busy highway for migrating birds. At these times, you might see as many as 50,000 ducks and 3,000 geese resting and feeding here.
Swans and Other Birds
Hundreds of beautiful Tundra and trumpeter swans also visit during their long journeys. This makes the refuge a popular spot for people who love to watch swans. You might also see Short-eared owls and long-billed curlews, which are birds with very long, curved beaks.
Rare Sightings
Sometimes, birdwatchers even spot rare songbirds in the cottonwood groves within the refuge. These are exciting moments for bird enthusiasts!
