Merced National Wildlife Refuge, Nature reserve in Merced County, United States
The Merced National Wildlife Refuge spans 10,200 acres of wetlands, native grasslands, vernal pools, and riparian areas in California's Central Valley.
Established in 1951 through the Lea Act and Migratory Bird Conservation Act, the refuge aimed to protect wintering waterfowl from nearby agricultural areas.
The refuge serves as a crucial winter destination for 20,000 cranes and 60,000 arctic-nesting geese migrating from Alaska and Canada each autumn.
Visitors can explore the reserve through a 5-mile auto tour route and four nature trails, which remain open from sunrise to sunset throughout the year.
The refuge maintains the largest concentrations of lesser sandhill cranes and Ross' geese along the Pacific Flyway during winter months.
Location: Merced County
Operator: US Fish and Wildlife Service
GPS coordinates: 37.27045,-120.72268
Latest update: March 9, 2025 13:33
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