Grulla National Wildlife Refuge, National wildlife refuge in Roosevelt County, New Mexico
Grulla National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area in New Mexico covering about 3,236 acres of flat terrain dominated by a central salt lake. This lake fills with water after heavy rains and creates essential habitat for migrating waterfowl and cranes passing through the region.
The area was transferred from the Bureau of Land Management to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 1969, establishing official protection. This handover marked the beginning of dedicated conservation efforts to preserve this critical stopover and wintering ground.
The name Grulla comes from the Spanish word for crane, honoring the sandhill cranes that gather here each winter in large groups. Watching these birds return in the evening is part of the local experience at this refuge.
Access is gained by traveling south on State Road 214 and then west on a local road toward the New Mexico state line. Binoculars are helpful for observing birds from a distance, and checking conditions ahead of your visit is recommended.
The salt lake basin sits at about 12,500 feet (3,800 meters) elevation and only forms after heavy rains, making this oasis particularly valuable for migrating birds. The temporary nature of the water means the best viewing happens right after heavy rainfall periods.
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