Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge
IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge Location in South Dakota Show map of South Dakota Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge Location in the United States Show map of the United States
Location	Bennett County, South Dakota, United States
Nearest city	Martin, SD
Area	16,410 acres (66.4 km2)
Established	August 26, 1935
Governing body	U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Website	Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge

Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge is a very special place in South Dakota. It is a National Wildlife Refuge that protects nature and animals. This large area covers about 16,410 acres (66.4 square kilometers). The United States Fish and Wildlife Service takes care of the refuge.

Discover Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge

This amazing refuge was set up on August 26, 1935. In the 1930s, a group called the Civilian Conservation Corps helped protect the land. They did important work to save this natural area.

A Mix of Habitats

Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge has many different types of land. You can find wetlands, which are like marshy areas, and open meadows. There are also small groups of planted trees in the higher areas. This mix of habitats makes it a great home for many different kinds of plants and animals.

Part of the refuge has low walls called dikes. These dikes help keep some areas wet for a long time. This is very good for wildlife, especially for birds that travel long distances. The refuge is also next to the Nebraska Sandhills. Water from the Sandhills flows into the refuge in early summer.

Home to Amazing Animals

Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge is a busy place for birds! Since the late 1950s, people have seen 281 different kinds of birds here.

Birds of Lacreek

During spring and fall, many birds stop at the refuge on their long journeys. Sometimes, as many as 29,000 ducks and 37,000 geese visit! About 80 to 100 beautiful trumpeter swans stay at the refuge each winter.

You might also spot some rare birds. The endangered whooping crane lives here. The majestic bald eagle also makes its home in the area. Other birds of prey, like the red-tailed hawk, Swainson's hawk, and golden eagle, can be seen flying overhead. The ring-necked pheasant, which was brought to the area, is also very common.

Mammals and Fish

The refuge is home to many mammals too. You might see pronghorn, white-tailed deer, and mule deer. Other animals include coyotes and badgers.

The waterways in the refuge are full of fish. Some fish you might find are yellow perch and northern pike. These fish are an important food source for many of the local birds.

Visiting the Refuge

Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge allows some fishing and hunting. However, these activities are only allowed in certain areas and during specific times of the year. This helps make sure the wildlife is protected.