Mathews Brake National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mathews Brake National Wildlife Refuge |
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IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
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 Mathews Brake National Wildlife Refuge
Location in the United States
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| Location | Leflore County, Mississippi, United States |
| Nearest city | Sidon, Mississippi |
| Area | 2,418 acres (9.79 km2) |
| Established | 1980 |
| Governing body | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Website | Mathews Brake National Wildlife Refuge |
The Mathews Brake National Wildlife Refuge is a special place in west-central Mississippi. It covers about 2,418 acres (that's over 978 football fields!). This refuge was created in 1980 to protect nature. It's part of a bigger group of wildlife refuges called the Theodore Roosevelt National Wildlife Refuge Complex.
The most important part of the refuge is Mathews Brake itself. A "brake" is a natural area of wooded wetland, like a forest that's often wet or flooded. Mathews Brake is the biggest one in Leflore County. Every winter, more than 30,000 ducks come here to find food and shelter!
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Discover Mathews Brake National Wildlife Refuge
Mathews Brake National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area where animals and plants can live safely. It's managed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, which works to conserve wildlife and their homes.
What is a Wildlife Refuge?
A national wildlife refuge is a special area set aside by the government. Its main goal is to protect wild animals and their natural homes. These places help make sure that different kinds of animals have safe places to live, eat, and raise their young.
Home to Many Birds
Mathews Brake is a very important stop for many birds that travel long distances. These are called "Neotropical migratory birds." They fly between North and South America each year. About 200 different kinds of migratory birds use the refuge during their journeys.
One special bird that lives here is the prothonotary warbler. This small bird builds its nest in holes in trees. While it might be hard for this bird to find homes in other places, Mathews Brake has lots of perfect spots for it among its wooded waters.
How the Refuge Helps Birds
The people who manage the refuge work hard to keep the brake healthy for birds. They control the water level to help certain plants grow. These "moist-soil plants" are a great food source for ducks and other birds. They also protect the oak trees around the edges, which provide food and shelter.
Other Habitats at the Refuge
Besides the main brake area, the refuge has other types of habitats. There are about 422 acres of "bottomland hardwoods." This means forests that grow in low, wet areas, often along rivers. There are also about 186 acres of young hardwood tree plantations, which are like young forests that have been planted.
Fun Activities at the Refuge
Many people enjoy visiting Mathews Brake National Wildlife Refuge. The most popular activities are hunting and fishing. These activities are carefully managed to make sure they don't harm the wildlife or the environment. They also help people connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors.
