Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge, National Wildlife Refuge in Saginaw County, Michigan
Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge is a 9,870-acre protected area combining wetlands, forests, and rivers where the Bad, Flint, and Cass Rivers meet in Michigan's Lower Peninsula. The landscape contains diverse habitats that attract migratory birds and provide shelter for various wildlife species.
The refuge was established in 1953 by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to protect migratory bird populations and preserve critical wetland habitats. This creation was part of a broader effort to safeguard essential resting areas for birds traveling along major migration routes.
The Green Point Environmental Learning Center offers guided programs and exhibits that help visitors learn about local bird species and wetland ecosystems. Seasonal activities reflect what birds and animals are present at different times of year.
The refuge offers 14 miles of trails ranging in difficulty, including the Ferguson Bayou Trail with an observation tower and the Woodland Trail through hardwood forests. The best time to visit depends on your interests, as different wildlife appears in different seasons.
During peak migration in October, up to 25,000 Canada geese and 40,000 ducks gather here to rest before continuing south along the Mississippi Flyway. This seasonal concentration of massive bird populations makes the refuge a notable destination for birdwatchers seeking dramatic wildlife viewing opportunities.
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