Huron Wetland Management District facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Huron Wetland Management District |
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IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
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 Huron Wetland Management District
Location in South Dakota
Huron Wetland Management District
Location in the United States
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| Location | South Dakota, United States |
| Nearest city | Huron, South Dakota |
| Area | 17,518 acres (70.89 km2) |
| Established | May 31, 1992 |
| Governing body | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Website | Huron Wetland Management District |
The Huron Wetland Management District is a special natural area in South Dakota, a state in the United States. It covers a huge space, about 17,518 acres, which is like 70 square kilometers! This amazing place is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. It's located in the middle of a famous area called the Prairie Pothole Region. This region is known for its many small wetlands, which are like natural ponds.
The district includes many lakes and special places called waterfowl production areas. These areas are important for birds that live near water. The Huron Wetland Management District helps protect these important habitats.
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What is the Huron Wetland Management District?
The Huron Wetland Management District was created on May 31, 1992. It stretches across eight counties in east-central South Dakota. Part of the district is near the Missouri River. The land here is mostly flat or gently rolling prairie. This area is perfect for many different kinds of wildlife.
Amazing Birds of the District
The Huron Wetland Management District is a very important stop for birds. Hundreds of thousands of birds fly through here every spring and fall. These birds are on their long journeys, called migrations. About half of these birds even build their nests here in the summer.
Common and Rare Birds
Many types of birds live in the district. Some birds stay all year, while others just visit.
- Ring-necked pheasants are very common here. They were brought to this area a long time ago.
- Sharp-tailed grouse are also often seen.
- Less common birds include the greater prairie chicken, wild turkey, and gray partridge.
Ducks and Water Birds
The district's wetlands are perfect for ducks and other water birds.
- The blue-winged teal is the most common duck you'll see.
- You can also spot mallards and northern shovelers.
- Many other duck species visit too.
- In spring and fall, huge flocks of snow geese fly through.
- Great blue herons and double-breasted cormorants also live here. They build their nests in groups called rookeries.
Protected Birds
The district is home to some very special birds that need protection.
- The whooping crane is an endangered species. This means there are very few left in the world.
- The interior least tern is also endangered.
- The piping plover is a threatened species. This means it could become endangered if we don't protect it.
Birds of Prey
You might also see powerful birds of prey flying overhead. These birds hunt other animals for food.
- Common birds of prey include the red-tailed hawk and Swainson's hawk.
- You might also spot a northern harrier or an American kestrel.
- The great horned owl hunts at night.
- Sometimes, even bald eagles and golden eagles are seen here.
Mammals of the Prairie
Many different mammals live in the Huron Wetland Management District.
- You can often see pronghorns, which are very fast animals.
- Both white-tailed deer and mule deer live here.
- Other common mammals include coyotes, badgers, beavers, and minks.
Aquatic Life and Other Animals
The many ponds and waterways are full of life.
- Yellow perch and northern pike are common fish species.
- These fish provide a lot of food for the birds.
- Amphibians like the leopard frog and Great Plains toad live here.
- The tiger salamander is also found in the district.
- You might even see a prairie rattlesnake, but they usually try to avoid people.
Fun Activities in the District
The Huron Wetland Management District allows some activities for visitors.
