Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge, Wildlife refuge in Ruby Valley, Nevada
Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area in northeastern Nevada covering wetlands, meadows, and grasslands at around 6,000 feet elevation. The Ruby Mountains form a natural boundary along the eastern edge of the refuge.
The area was protected in 1938 as a means to preserve the ancient lakebed that once filled this valley. This action reflected broader efforts to safeguard natural wetlands across the western United States.
Native American settlements throughout northeastern Nevada left evidence of their presence along the western section of the current refuge territory.
The South Marsh area allows wading and fishing from the shore from August through December, with motorboats limited to 10 horsepower. Visiting during fall and early winter offers the best opportunities for observing wildlife activity.
The refuge hosts over 200 bird species, with spring-fed marshes serving as nesting grounds for greater sandhill cranes and trumpeter swans. These two bird species rely on the refuge as a critical stopover during their seasonal movements.
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