Klamath Marsh National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Klamath Marsh National Wildlife Refuge |
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IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
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 Klamath Marsh National Wildlife Refuge
Location in Oregon
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| Location | Klamath County, Oregon, USA |
| Nearest city | Klamath Falls, Oregon |
| Area | 40,885 acres (16,546 ha) |
| Established | 1958 |
| Governing body | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Website | Klamath Marsh NWR |
The Klamath Marsh National Wildlife Refuge is a special protected area in Oregon, USA. It was created in 1958 to be a safe home for migratory birds. These are birds that travel long distances each year. The refuge covers about 40,000 acres, which is a huge area!
It was first called the Klamath Forest National Wildlife Refuge. But since almost all of the big, historic Klamath Marsh is now inside its borders, it was renamed. This large natural marsh is super important. It gives birds a great place to nest, find food, and rest. The grassy areas around the marsh are also perfect for nesting and feeding.
Contents
What is a National Wildlife Refuge?
A National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area. It is managed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. Their main goal is to protect wild animals and their homes. These refuges help make sure that different kinds of animals can live safely. They also help keep nature healthy for everyone.
Home to Amazing Animals
Klamath Marsh is a busy place for many animals. It is especially important for waterfowl, like ducks and geese. You can also spot sandhill cranes and yellow rails. Many different shorebirds and raptors (birds of prey) live here too.
The pine forests next to the marsh are also full of life. They are home to the amazing great gray owl. You might even see large Rocky Mountain elk roaming through the trees. This refuge helps protect all these wonderful creatures.
Birds That Travel Far
Many birds that visit Klamath Marsh are migratory. This means they fly thousands of miles every year. They travel from their breeding grounds to warmer places for winter. The marsh gives them a safe spot to rest and refuel. It is like a giant rest stop on their long journey.
Life in the Marsh
The marsh itself is a rich ecosystem. It has lots of water plants and insects. These are perfect food sources for birds and other animals. The shallow waters are ideal for wading birds to hunt. The tall grasses provide cover for nests.
Exploring the Refuge
During the summer, you can explore parts of the refuge. One popular activity is canoeing in Wocus Bay. This is a beautiful part of the marsh. Canoeing lets you get close to nature. You can quietly watch birds and other wildlife. It is a great way to see the refuge's amazing scenery.
The refuge offers a chance to connect with nature. It helps us understand how important it is to protect wild places. It is a special spot where animals can thrive.
