Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge |
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IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
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 Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge
Location in Washington (state)
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| Location | Grays Harbor County, Washington, United States |
| Nearest city | Hoquiam, Washington |
| Area | 1,471.38 acres (595.45 ha) |
| Established | 1990 |
| Governing body | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Website | Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge |
The Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge is a special place in Washington State. It is found inside Grays Harbor, right where the Chehalis River meets the ocean. This river has the second largest watershed in Washington. The refuge is very important for many birds. It is one of four main spots where migrating shorebirds stop to rest and eat. Up to one million shorebirds visit here each spring and fall.
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What is Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge?
The Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge was created in 1990. It is managed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. This group works to protect wildlife and their homes. The refuge covers about 1,471 acres. It is a safe place for many different animals.
A Special Home for Shorebirds
Grays Harbor is known around the world for its importance to shorebirds. It is part of the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network. This means it is a very important place for these birds. Even though the refuge is only a small part of Grays Harbor, it hosts half of all the shorebirds that stop there. These birds gather in the estuary to feed and rest.
The Pacific Flyway
The Grays Harbor Refuge is a key stop on the Pacific Flyway. This is like a superhighway in the sky for birds. It is a major migration route. Birds use this route to travel between their breeding grounds and their winter homes. Many birds fly thousands of miles each year. They need safe places like Grays Harbor to rest and refuel.
Amazing Birds!
Many different kinds of birds use the Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge. About 24 species of shorebirds visit this area.
Most Common Shorebirds
The most common shorebirds you might see are:
Other shorebirds that are often seen during migration include:
Other Wildlife
It's not just shorebirds that call this refuge home! Many other animals live here or visit. You might spot:
- Peregrine falcon
- Bald eagle
- Northern harrier
- Caspian tern
- Great blue heron
- Different kinds of songbirds
- A variety of waterfowl (ducks, geese, etc.)
Visiting the Refuge
The Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge has a special boardwalk. This walkway makes it easy for people to visit. It helps visitors learn about the refuge and its wildlife. Many people travel through this area on their way to the Olympic Peninsula. The boardwalk gives them a chance to stop and enjoy nature.
