Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge |
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IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
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 Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Location in Nebraska
Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Location in the United States
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| Location | Garden County, Nebraska, USA |
| Nearest city | Alliance, NE |
| Area | 45,818 acres (185 km2) |
| Established | 1931 |
| Governing body | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Website | Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge |
The Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a special protected area in Nebraska, USA. It covers a huge area of about 45,818 acres (185 square kilometers). This refuge is famous for having the largest protected sand dunes in the entire U.S.
Imagine sand dunes that stretch for miles! Some of these dunes are covered with plants like shrubs and grasses, while others are just bare sand. Underneath the ground, there are hidden water sources called aquifers. These aquifers feed many small lakes and ponds in areas where the sand dunes dip low enough to meet the water.
The refuge was created in 1931. Its main goal was to protect the important wetlands and give a safe home to many different animals, especially birds that travel long distances.
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What Makes Crescent Lake Special?
Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a fantastic place for nature lovers. It's known for its amazing variety of wildlife.
A Haven for Birds
- Over 200 different kinds of birds have been seen here! This makes it one of the best places in the U.S. for birdwatching.
- You might even spot up to twenty pairs of Bald eagles. These majestic birds spend part of their year at the refuge.
- Many other migratory birds also stop here to rest and find food in the wetlands.
Amazing Mammals
The refuge is home to many interesting mammals:
- Pronghorn: These fast animals, often called "antelopes," roam the grassy areas.
- Deer: You can see both Mule deer and White-tailed deer.
- Other Animals: Keep an eye out for coyotes, bobcats, beavers, river otters, swift foxes, prairie dogs, and raccoons.
Fishing Fun
If you enjoy fishing, Crescent Lake NWR is a popular spot. Some of the fish you can catch include:
How to Visit
Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge is located about 28 miles (45 km) north of Oshkosh, Nebraska.
- From U.S. Highway 26: Turn north onto West Second Street. Follow the signs from there to reach the Refuge headquarters.
- From U.S. Highway 2: Turn south just east of Lakeside, Nebraska.
This refuge is managed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. It also helps manage the North Platte National Wildlife Refuge. Together, they form the Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge Complex.
