Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge |
|
|---|---|
|
IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
|
|
 |
|
 Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge
Location in the United States
Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge
Location in California
|
|
| Location | Sacramento County, California, United States |
| Nearest city | Elk Grove, California |
| Area | 17,641 acres (71.39 km2) |
| Established | 1994 |
| Governing body | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Website | Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge |
The Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge is a special place for wildlife located just south of Sacramento, California. It was created in 1994 to protect important natural areas. This refuge is part of the Sacramento-San Joaquin delta, which is like a highway for thousands of migrating birds. Many different kinds of waterfowl, shorebirds, and other water birds come here to rest and find food.
Protecting Nature
The Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge works hard to protect rare natural areas. It also helps keep important farmlands safe. This is very important because the area is growing quickly with new cities and changes in farming. The refuge uses new and smart ways to partner with different groups to achieve its goals.
Different Habitats
The refuge has many different types of natural homes for animals, called habitats. These include:
- Wetlands: Some wetlands are wet all year, and others are wet only during certain seasons. These are like watery playgrounds for many birds.
- Riparian Forests: These are forests that grow along rivers and streams. They provide shade and homes for many creatures.
- Grasslands: These are open areas covered in grasses. They are important for birds and insects.
- Freshwater Lakes: The refuge also has some of the last remaining freshwater lakes in the central valley of California.
Who Lives Here?
These different habitats are home to many animals. They support huge numbers of birds that migrate, meaning they travel long distances. The refuge is also a major "rookery." This is a place where many birds, like great blue herons, gather to build nests and raise their young. There's also a warm water fishery, which means fish live in the waters here.
Some very special animals that are endangered (meaning they are at risk of disappearing forever) or threatened (meaning they could become endangered) also benefit from the refuge. These include:
Visiting the Refuge
More and more people visit the Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge every year. In 2001, over 8,500 people came to explore! Even though the refuge doesn't have a big visitor center or many restrooms, people still love to come.
Volunteer Guides
Local volunteers are a big help at the refuge. On weekends, they spend their time guiding visitors. They lead groups through the grassy areas and along the waterways lined with trees. These volunteers teach people about the amazing wildlife and nature found right in their own backyard. It's a great way for everyone to learn about protecting our planet.
This article incorporates public domain material from websites or documents of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.
