Clear Lake National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Clear Lake National Wildlife Refuge |
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IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
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 Clear Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Location in the United States
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| Location | Modoc County, California, United States |
| Nearest city | Tulelake, California |
| Area | 46,460 acres (188.0 km2) |
| Established | 1911 |
| Governing body | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Website | Clear Lake NWR |
The Clear Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a special protected area in northeastern California, United States. It's like a safe home for many wild animals and plants. This refuge covers about 46,460 acres (188 km²). It was created in 1911 to protect important wildlife.
A big part of the refuge is a large lake, covering about 20,000 acres (81 km²). Around the lake, there are over 26,000 acres (105 km²) of dry land. This land has different types of plants like tough grasses, low sagebrush, and juniper trees.
Contents
What Animals Live Here?
The Clear Lake National Wildlife Refuge is home to many amazing creatures. It's a great place for birds and other animals to live safely.
Birds of the Refuge
Small, rocky islands in the lake are perfect places for birds to build their nests. Many birds come here to lay eggs and raise their young.
- American White Pelicans: These large, beautiful birds have huge pouches under their beaks. They use them to scoop up fish from the water.
- Double-crested Cormorants: These dark-colored birds are expert divers. They swim underwater to catch fish.
- Other Colony-Nesting Birds: Many other birds also gather in large groups, called colonies, to nest on the islands. This helps keep their eggs and chicks safe.
Land Animals
The dry areas around the lake are also full of wildlife. These uplands provide food and shelter for different animals.
- Pronghorn: These are the fastest land animals in North America. They look a bit like deer but are a different species.
- Mule Deer: You can often spot these deer with their large ears, which look like a mule's ears.
- Sage Grouse: These unique birds are known for their fancy mating dances. They rely on the sagebrush plants for food and cover.
Water for the Region
The Clear Lake Reservoir is very important for the area. It provides water for farms in the eastern Klamath Basin. The Bureau of Reclamation manages the water levels in the lake. This makes sure there is enough water for both the wildlife and the farms.
Visiting the Refuge
The Clear Lake National Wildlife Refuge is mostly closed to the public. This is to protect the animals and their homes. It helps keep the refuge a quiet and safe place for them.
However, there are a few exceptions. During specific state hunting seasons, people can hunt a limited number of pronghorn and waterfowl. This is carefully controlled to make sure animal populations stay healthy.
