Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge, National Wildlife Refuge in northern Idaho, United States
Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area in northern Idaho covering about 1,123 hectares (2,774 acres) with wetlands, meadows, riparian forests, and agricultural fields. The landscape provides food and habitat for wildlife across diverse ecological zones.
The refuge was established in 1964 by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to preserve migration habitat for waterfowl. It lies in Boundary County, northern Idaho, about 5 miles (8 km) from Bonners Ferry and 20 miles (32 km) from the Canada–United States border, bordered by the Selkirk Mountains to the west and the Kootenai River to the east.
The refuge hosts the Idaho Junior Duck Stamp Art Contest, where young artists engage with wildlife conservation through creative work. This event shows how the community connects artistic expression with environmental stewardship.
Visitors can explore the area through an auto tour route, several marked hiking trails, and a visitor center. Early morning is the best time to visit when wildlife is most active.
The area is home to over 200 bird species, making it an important watching spot for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The large variety of species gives visitors chances to spot different birds on each visit.
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