Grasslands Wildlife Management Area facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Grasslands Wildlife Management Area |
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IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
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| Location | Merced County, California, United States |
| Nearest city | Los Banos |
| Area | 70,000 acres (280 km2) |
| Established | 1979 |
| Governing body | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Website | Grasslands Wildlife Management Area |
| Official name: Grassland Ecological Area (GEA) | |
| Designated: | February 2, 2005 |
| Reference #: | 1451 |
The Grasslands Wildlife Management Area is a very important natural area in California. It is found within the San Joaquin River basin. This special place protects the largest group of wetlands left in the Central Valley.
It includes about 70,000 acres (280 km2) of private wetlands. There are also 53,000 acres (210 km2) of land owned by the state and federal governments. The United States Fish and Wildlife Service has made special agreements to protect these private lands forever.
What is the Grasslands Ecological Area?
The Grasslands Wildlife Management Area is part of a much bigger region. This larger area is called the Grasslands Ecological Area. It covers over 160,000 acres (650 km2) in total.
Besides the private wetlands, it includes two national wildlife refuges. There are also four state wildlife areas. All these areas work together to protect nature.
Home to Amazing Birds
This area is super important for many different birds. It's a key stop along the Pacific Flyway. This is like a major highway in the sky for birds migrating across North America.
You can find 19 different kinds of ducks here. There are also 6 types of goose species. Many other wading birds and shorebirds also visit.
The Grasslands Ecological Area is officially part of the Western Hemispheric Shorebird Reserve Network. This means it's recognized internationally as a vital place for shorebirds.
When to Visit
If you want to see lots of birds, late winter and early spring are the best times. You can easily spot huge groups of migratory waterfowl. These are birds like ducks and geese. You'll also see many wading birds and shorebirds. It's a great place to observe nature!
