Lake Thibadeau National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Lake Thibadeau National Wildlife Refuge
IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
Lake Thibadeau National Wildlife Refuge Location in the United States
Location	Hill County, Montana, USA
Nearest city	Havre, MT
Area	3,868 acres (1,565 ha) in 2010
Established	1937
Governing body	U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Website	Lake Thibadeau National Wildlife Refuge

Lake Thibadeau National Wildlife Refuge is a special place in Montana, USA. It covers about 3,868 acres, which is like 3,000 football fields! This refuge helps protect wildlife and their homes. It is located about 15 miles northeast of a town called Havre, Montana. It's part of a bigger area managed to protect wetlands, called the Bowdoin Wetland Management District.

What is Lake Thibadeau National Wildlife Refuge?

A National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area set aside by the government. Its main goal is to keep wild animals and plants safe. Lake Thibadeau is a unique type of refuge called an easement refuge. This means most of the land is still owned by private people. However, the owners have agreed to protect the land for wildlife.

Where is Lake Thibadeau Located?

Lake Thibadeau National Wildlife Refuge is found in Hill County, Montana. This area is in the northern part of the United States. The nearest city is Havre, Montana. The refuge's location is important because it provides a safe stop for many animals.

Why are Wildlife Refuges Important?

Wildlife refuges like Lake Thibadeau are super important for nature. They give animals a safe place to live, find food, and raise their young. Without these protected areas, many animals might lose their homes. They also help keep different types of plants healthy.

Protecting Animals and Plants

These refuges help protect many kinds of animals. This includes birds, mammals, reptiles, and insects. They also protect different types of plants that are important for the ecosystem. By protecting these areas, we help keep nature balanced.

What Kinds of Habitats are There?

Lake Thibadeau National Wildlife Refuge has a mix of different natural areas. These areas are called habitats. Different animals and plants need different types of habitats to survive. The refuge includes grasslands, marshes, and even some croplands.

Grasslands, Marshes, and Croplands

• Grasslands: These are open areas covered in grasses. Many animals like deer, small mammals, and ground-nesting birds live here.
• Marshes: These are wet, swampy areas with lots of water and special plants. Marshes are perfect homes for ducks, geese, and other water birds. They also support many insects and amphibians.
• Croplands: Even though it's a refuge, some parts are croplands. These areas can provide food for certain birds and other wildlife, especially during migration.

Who Manages the Refuge?

The Lake Thibadeau National Wildlife Refuge is managed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. This is a government agency in the USA. They work hard to make sure the refuge stays a safe place for wildlife.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages all National Wildlife Refuges. Their job is to protect and conserve wildlife and their habitats. They make rules for the refuge and work with landowners. They also help educate people about the importance of wildlife conservation.