McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge |
|
|---|---|
|
IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
|
|
 |
|
 McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge
Location in Oregon
|
|
| Location | Umatilla County, Oregon |
| Nearest city | Pendleton |
| Area | 1,836.5 acres (743.2 ha) |
| Established | 1991 |
| Visitors | 50,000 |
| Governing body | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Website | McKay Creek NWR |
The McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge is a special protected area in Eastern Oregon, United States. It sits between wide-open plains and the Blue Mountains. This refuge is a safe home for many different kinds of animals and plants.
It is especially important for rare and endangered species. It also provides a vital resting and breeding spot for birds that travel long distances. Because this area is quite dry, the refuge's wetlands are super important. They offer a unique home for wildlife that need water to survive.
Contents
About McKay Creek Refuge
The McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge was created in 1991. It covers about 1,836 acres of land. The United States Fish and Wildlife Service manages this important area. They work to protect the wildlife and their homes.
A Home for Wildlife
The refuge has different types of natural areas. These include watery places like the creek and reservoir. There are also dry, grassy areas called shrub-steppes. Along the creek, you'll find "riparian zones." These are green areas right next to the water.
These different habitats support many animals. The watery areas are perfect for waterfowl, like ducks and geese. They come here to rest and find food, especially in winter. The surrounding dry lands and green creek banks are home to small mammals. You might see mule deer, many kinds of songbirds, and birds that hunt, like hawks.
Birds of the Refuge
Many amazing birds live at McKay Creek. Osprey build their nests in the tall cottonwood trees. These large birds are known for catching fish. In the fall and winter, you might even spot bald eagles flying overhead.
During late summer, the water levels drop. This creates exposed mud flats. These muddy areas are a feast for shorebirds that are migrating. They stop here to find food before continuing their long journeys.
History of the Name
The McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge, along with the creek and reservoir, is named after Dr. William C. McKay. He was an early pioneer who settled near Pendleton, Oregon. Dr. McKay made his home near the mouth of McKay Creek around 1851.
The local native people knew this spot by the name Houtama. Dr. McKay passed away in 1893. His name lives on through this important natural area.
Visiting the Refuge
The refuge is located about five miles south of the city of Pendleton. Because it's easy to reach, many people visit each year. Around 50,000 visitors come to the refuge annually. Most of them visit during the warm summer months.
There are many ways to enjoy the refuge. You can drive through certain areas or go for a walk. Many people enjoy having a picnic here. It's a great place to watch wildlife and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Some visitors also come for upland bird hunting, which is allowed in certain areas. They might look for pheasant and quail.
