Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge |
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IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
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 Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge
Location in the United States
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| Location | Alabama and Georgia, United States |
| Nearest city | Eufaula, Alabama |
| Area | 11,184 acres (45.26 km2) |
| Established | 1964 |
| Visitors | 325,000 (in 2005) |
| Governing body | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Website | Eufaula NWR |
The Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge is a special place where nature is protected. It covers a huge area of 11,184 acres (about 45 square kilometers). This refuge is located in both Alabama and Georgia. It sits right along the Chattahoochee River on Walter F. George Lake, which is also known as Lake Eufaula. Most of the refuge, about 7,953 acres, is in Alabama. The rest, about 3,231 acres, is in Georgia.
The Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge was created in 1964. It was set up with help from the United States Army Corps of Engineers. They manage the Walter F. George Lock and Dam and most of Lake Eufaula. Many people visit the refuge each year. In 2005, over 325,000 visitors came to explore this amazing natural area.
Amazing Animals at Eufaula Refuge
The Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge is home to many different animals. It helps protect animals that are rare or in danger. One example is the wood stork, a large wading bird.
The refuge has many types of natural areas for animals to live in:
- About 4,000 acres (16 square kilometers) are open water.
- About 3,000 acres (12 square kilometers) are wetlands.
- About 2,000 acres (8 square kilometers) are woodlands.
- About 1,000 acres (4 square kilometers) are croplands.
- About 1,000 acres (4 square kilometers) are grasslands.
These different habitats provide shelter and food for many animals. You can find migratory waterfowl and other birds here. Other animals living in the refuge include raccoons, white-tailed deer, quail, beavers, red and gray foxes, doves, bobcats, hawks, armadillos, owls, rabbits, squirrels, river otters, turkeys, and coyotes. You might also spot reptiles like alligators and copperheads, along with amphibians, insects, and various fish.
Fun Things to Do at the Refuge
There are many fun activities you can do at the Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge. Lake Eufaula is a great spot for boating and fishing.
If you like to explore, you can drive along a seven-mile (11 kilometer) auto-tour trail. This trail lets you see different parts of the refuge from your car. There are also two observation towers where you can get a better view of the wildlife and landscape. A walking trail is available for those who prefer to explore on foot.
Right next to the Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge, on the Alabama side of the river, is Lakepoint State Park. It's near the city of Eufaula.
