Conboy Lake National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Conboy Lake National Wildlife Refuge
IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
Sandhill cranes on the refuge
Conboy Lake National Wildlife Refuge Location in Washington (state)
Location	Klickitat County, Washington
Nearest town	Trout Lake, Washington
Area	7,071.70 acres (2,861.82 ha)
Established	1964 (1964)
Governing body	U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Website	Conboy Lake National Wildlife Refuge

The Conboy Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a special place for nature lovers. It's located in southern Washington state, on the eastern side of the Cascade Mountains. This refuge sits right at the base of the huge Mount Adams, which is over 12,000 feet (3,743 meters) tall!

This amazing wildlife area covers about 7,071 acres (2,862 hectares). It was created on what used to be the lakebeds of Conboy and Camas lakes. Early settlers drained these shallow, marshy wetlands. Today, the refuge is a mix of different habitats. You'll find conifer forests, open grasslands, shallow wetlands, and even some deep water areas. These different environments make it a perfect home for many kinds of animals.

What Animals Live Here?

The Conboy Lake National Wildlife Refuge is bursting with wildlife! It's a safe haven for many mammals. You might spot a raccoon or a deer quietly moving through the trees. Look closely, and you could see a clever marten or a powerful elk.

• Mammals:
  • Coyotes
  • Muskrats
  • Skunks
  • Cougars (also known as mountain lions)
  • Beavers
  • Porcupines
  • River otters
  • Many small rodents

Birdwatching Paradise

If you love birds, this refuge is a fantastic place to visit. Over 150 different kinds of birds have been seen here! It's a busy spot for birds that are migrating or looking for a place to nest.

• Special Birds:
  • The majestic Bald eagle
  • The graceful greater sandhill crane

Amphibians, Reptiles, and Fish

Beyond mammals and birds, the refuge is also home to many amphibians, reptiles, and fish. These creatures play important roles in the wetland ecosystem.

• Unique Amphibian:
  • The Oregon spotted frog is a very special amphibian found here. It's considered a "species of concern," meaning it needs extra protection to help its population grow.

Visiting Conboy Lake Refuge

The Conboy Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a wonderful place to explore nature. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery and learn about the local wildlife.

• Things to Do:
  • Hiking: You can hike the Willard Springs trail. It's a great way to get up close with nature.
  • Wildlife Observation: You can watch animals from the county roads that go around and through the refuge. Remember to observe from a distance so you don't disturb the animals.

Sandhill Crane Colts

Each spring, something truly special happens at the refuge. Baby sandhill cranes, called "colts," are born! You might be able to see them near the refuge headquarters or from nearby roads.

• Observing Colts:
  • When they are very young, colts can be hard to spot. Adult cranes try to hide their babies from predators.
  • It's super important to watch them from far away. Your presence should never make the birds feel unsafe. This helps ensure the young cranes can grow up strong and healthy.