Cokeville Meadows National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cokeville Meadows National Wildlife Refuge |
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IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
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 Cokeville Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
Location in Wyoming
Cokeville Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
Location in the United States
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| Location | Lincoln County, Wyoming, United States |
| Nearest city | Cokeville, Wyoming |
| Area | 26,657 acres (107 km2) |
| Established | 1993 |
| Governing body | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Website | Cokeville Meadows National Wildlife Refuge |
The Cokeville Meadows National Wildlife Refuge is a special place in Wyoming, United States. It is a protected area for wildlife. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service looks after it. This agency is part of the U.S. Department of the Interior.
Contents
What is Cokeville Meadows National Wildlife Refuge?
This refuge covers a huge area. It is about 26,657 acres (106 square kilometers). Much of this land is made of wetlands. Wetlands are areas where the land is covered by water. These wetlands are found along the Bear River. The river stretches for about 20 miles (32 kilometers) through the refuge.
Why is This Refuge Important?
Cokeville Meadows is a very important place for birds. It is known as one of the best spots for redhead ducks. These ducks love the habitat here. It is also one of the best places in Wyoming for many other migratory birds. Migratory birds are those that travel long distances. They stop here during their journeys.
Birds You Might See
Many different bird species live or visit the refuge. You might spot the white-faced ibis. There are also snowy egrets and long-billed curlews. Other birds include the great blue heron and American bittern. The black-crowned night heron also makes its home here.
Birds of Prey
Powerful birds of prey also use the refuge. Bald and golden eagles can be seen here. Peregrine falcons also visit. These birds often nest in the refuge during spring and fall.
Visiting Cokeville Meadows
The Cokeville Meadows Refuge is quite new. Because of this, it is mostly closed to the public right now. There are not many visitor services available yet. However, there is one special spot. You can visit a wildlife viewing station. This is a great place to watch for animals.
How the Refuge is Growing
Less than a third of the refuge land is currently owned by the U.S. Government. The rest of the land will be bought from private owners. This will happen when they agree to sell their land. The refuge is managed by staff from the Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge.
Where is Cokeville Meadows Located?
The refuge is easy to find. It is right next to U.S. Route 30. You can find it about 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) south of Cokeville, Wyoming.
