Havasu National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Havasu National Wildlife Refuge
IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
Havasu National Wildlife Refuge Location in the United States
Location	Mohave County, Arizona / San Bernardino County, California, U.S.
Nearest city	Needles, California
Area	37,515 acres (151.82 km2)
Established	1941
Governing body	U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

The Havasu National Wildlife Refuge is a special place for animals and nature lovers. It's located along the lower Colorado River in Arizona and California. This refuge helps protect homes for amazing animals like desert bighorn sheep and the tiny, endangered southwestern willow flycatcher.

The refuge covers about 30 miles of the river. It stretches from Needles, California, all the way to Lake Havasu City, Arizona. A beautiful and natural part of the Colorado River, called the 20-mile-long (32 km) Topock Gorge, flows right through the refuge.

Amazing Animals of Havasu

Many different kinds of animals live in the Havasu National Wildlife Refuge. You might spot a fast peregrine falcon flying overhead. On the ground, you could see a clever coyote or a shy fox.

The refuge is also home to strong desert bighorn sheep. You might even see a speedy greater roadrunner or a quiet bobcat. Sometimes, a powerful cougar might be around too.

• Thousands of bats fly out of old mines at night.
• Rare razorback sucker fish swim in places like Beal Lake.

Why People Love to Visit

A big river in a hot, dry area is like a magnet for both wildlife and people. Lots of visitors come to the refuge every year. They enjoy boating through the stunning Topock Gorge. Many people also love watching waterbirds at the Topock Marsh. Others like to hike in the Havasu Wilderness Area.

A special group of people helps support the refuge. This non-profit group works with the refuge staff. They help with events and get money to support projects. They also raise funds for nature education programs. Plus, they volunteer their time to help the United States Fish and Wildlife Service keep the refuge running smoothly.

Places to Explore

Fivemile Landing: Your River Adventure Start

To help visitors enjoy the Colorado River, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lets a private company run a special spot called Five-Mile Landing. This 35-acre (14 ha) area has boat ramps. It's a great place to launch your boat or canoe. You can also find campsites and RV spots here. There's even a store for supplies. Five-Mile Landing is located at Topock Marsh in the northern part of the refuge.

Topock Marsh: A Birdwatcher's Dream

The Topock Marsh is one of the best places to watch birds. It's a large wetland area in the Lower Colorado River Valley. This valley stretches between Hoover Dam and the Colorado River Delta. Many different kinds of birds stop here during their long journeys.

Catfish Paradise: Fish Fun

Catfish Paradise is a cool spot at the southern end of the Topock Marsh. It's a great place for fishing! Many types of fish and other water creatures live here.

• You can find Bullfrogs jumping around.
• Fish like Carp, Sunfish, and Crappie swim in the water.
• There are also Channel Catfish, Largemouth Bass, and Tilapia.