Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge

Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area along Florida's Atlantic coast in Indian River County, covering 5400 acres of salt marsh, mangrove forest, and open water. The area stretches along the Indian River and provides habitat for more than 130 bird species as well as sea turtles and manatees.

Theodore Roosevelt declared the island the first National Wildlife Refuge in the United States in 1903 to protect birds from extinction through commercial feather hunting. This decision became the starting point for a nationwide system of refuges that today includes more than 560 locations.

The area takes its name from brown pelicans that nest on small mangrove islands and can be watched by visitors during breeding season. Volunteer educators regularly lead programs explaining how birdlife shifts throughout the year.

Two loop trails of 3 miles each wind through salt marsh and allow observation of birds and other wildlife throughout the year. Guided tours on an electric trolley can be reserved in advance and offer explanations of the flora and fauna along the route.

Paul Kroegel, a German immigrant, guarded the island for years on his own and later became the first paid ranger of the refuge. His initiative and personal commitment to protecting the birds inspired the government to build the entire nationwide system of wildlife refuges.

Location: Indian River County

Website: https://fws.gov/refuge/pelican_island

GPS coordinates: 27.81000,-80.44111

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:29