Fox River National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Fox River National Wildlife Refuge |
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IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
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Fox River National Wildlife Refuge, April 2012
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 Fox River National Wildlife Refuge
Location in the United States
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| Location | Buffalo, Marquette County, Wisconsin, United States |
| Nearest city | Endeavor, Wisconsin |
| Area | 1,054 acres (4.27 km2) |
| Established | 1979 |
| Governing body | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Website | https://www.fws.gov/refuge/fox_river/ Fox River National Wildlife Refuge] |
The Fox River National Wildlife Refuge is a special place in Marquette County, Wisconsin, near the town of Buffalo. It covers about 1,054 acres (4.27 km2) of land and water along the Fox River. This refuge is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the same team that looks after the famous Horicon National Wildlife Refuge.
This area is very important because it protects different kinds of natural homes, called habitats. These include wet areas known as wetlands and higher, drier land called uplands. The refuge helps keep these habitats healthy for all the animals and plants that live there.
Contents
What is the Fox River Refuge?
The Fox River National Wildlife Refuge was created in 1979. Its main goal is to protect and improve the natural environment. This means making sure that the plants and animals have safe places to live and grow. The refuge is a quiet spot where nature can thrive, away from too much human activity.
Protecting Habitats
The people who work at the refuge focus on bringing back and taking care of the original habitats that used to be common along the Fox River. These include:
- Oak Savanna Upland: This is a type of grassland with scattered oak trees. It's like a mix between a forest and a prairie.
- Sedge Meadow Wetland: These are wet, grassy areas where plants like sedges grow. They are often flooded or very damp.
By restoring these habitats, the refuge helps many different kinds of wildlife.
Helping Wildlife Thrive
A big part of the refuge's job is to manage the animal populations. They pay special attention to animals that need large, natural wet areas, like marshes. One of the most famous birds found here is the greater sandhill crane. These tall, graceful birds rely on big, undisturbed wetlands for nesting and feeding. The refuge makes sure they have the space and resources they need to survive.
The refuge also works hard to protect animals that are in danger. These are called endangered or threatened species. An endangered species is one that is at risk of disappearing forever. A threatened species is one that might become endangered soon.
One important animal protected at the Fox River Refuge is the Blanding's turtle. This turtle is considered threatened in Wisconsin, meaning its numbers are getting low. The refuge provides a safe home for these turtles, helping them to survive and hopefully increase their population.
Visiting the Refuge
While the main goal of the refuge is to protect nature, it also offers some opportunities for people to visit. These activities are carefully planned so they don't disturb the wildlife. You might be able to:
- Enjoy outdoor recreation, like bird watching or hiking.
- Learn about nature through environmental education programs.
These public activities are designed to help people appreciate and understand the importance of wildlife and their habitats. They are always done in a way that keeps the animals safe and the environment healthy.
