Colorado state wildlife areas facts for kids
The Colorado state wildlife areas are special places in Colorado where people can enjoy nature and wildlife. These areas are managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, a part of the State of Colorado government. There are over 300 of these areas, covering a huge space of more than 860 square miles (2,230 km2)! They are used for things like hunting, fishing, watching wildlife, and protecting important natural habitats.
Getting Ready to Visit: Licenses You Need
If you want to visit a Colorado state wildlife area, you need to have a valid fishing or hunting license. This rule started on July 1, 2020. The cheapest license is a fishing license, which cost $38 in 2020. If you enter a state wildlife area without a license, you could get a fine of $139.50. The Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission created this rule to help with their budget.
Discovering Colorado's Wildlife Areas
Colorado has more than 300 state wildlife areas! These places are spread all over the state. They offer many chances to see different kinds of animals and plants. You can also enjoy activities like fishing and hunting. Some areas are also important for protecting special habitats.
Here are just a few examples of the many state wildlife areas you can find:
- Adams State Wildlife Area
- Adobe Creek Reservoir State Wildlife Area at Blue Lake
- Alberta Park Reservoir State Wildlife Area
- Alma State Wildlife Area
- Almont Triangle State Wildlife Area
- Bodo State Wildlife Area
- Bosque Del Oso State Wildlife Area
- Cherokee State Wildlife Area (which has several units like Lone Pine and Rabbit Creek)
- John Martin Reservoir State Wildlife Area
- Mount Evans State Wildlife Area
- Pikes Peak State Wildlife Area (which is a special place for bison)
- Pueblo Reservoir State Wildlife Area
- Tamarack Ranch State Wildlife Area
Many of these areas are named after lakes, rivers, or local landmarks. Some are also called "State Fish Units" because they are places where fish are raised. Others are "Watchable Wildlife Areas" where you can easily observe animals in their natural homes.
To see a full and current list of all the state wildlife areas in Colorado, you can visit the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife website: Colorado State Wildlife Areas.