Wolf Island National Wildlife Refuge facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Wolf Island National Wildlife Refuge
IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
American oystercatchers at Wolf Island National Wildlife Refuge, February 2014
Wolf Island National Wildlife Refuge Location in the United States
Location	McIntosh County, Georgia, United States
Nearest city	Darien, Georgia
Area	5,126 acres (20.74 km2)
Established	1930
Governing body	U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Website	Wolf Island National Wildlife Refuge

The Wolf Island National Wildlife Refuge is a special protected area for animals and plants. It is located about 12 miles (19 km) off the coast of Darien, Georgia. This refuge was created on April 3, 1930. Its main goal is to protect birds that travel long distances (called migratory birds) and give them a safe place to live.

About Wolf Island Refuge

This refuge is made up of Wolf Island and two smaller islands, Egg and Little Egg. These islands are "barrier islands," meaning they help protect the coast from storms. More than 75% of the refuge's 5,126 acres (20.74 km²) is covered by a saltwater marsh. A saltwater marsh is a wet, grassy area where fresh water mixes with salty ocean water.

Home for Wildlife

In 1975, Wolf Island National Wildlife Refuge was named a National Wilderness Area. This means it is a very wild place where nature is left untouched. The main reason for this protection is to keep migratory birds safe. It also helps protect animals that are in danger of disappearing, like the loggerhead sea turtle and the piping plover.

Rules for Visitors

Because Wolf Island is a wilderness area, there are no special buildings or places for visitors. This helps keep the area wild and natural. You can enjoy some fun activities in the salty waters around the refuge, like fishing and crabbing. However, all the beach areas, marshlands, and higher ground (upland areas) are closed to the public. This is to make sure the animals and their homes are not disturbed.