Fern Cave National Wildlife Refuge, National Wildlife Refuge near Paint Rock, Alabama
Fern Cave National Wildlife Refuge is a nature preserve in Alabama containing an extensive underground cave system with over 12 levels connected by deep canyons and vertical shafts, extending approximately 450 feet down and spanning more than 15 miles of passages. The 199-acre property offers visitors hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities throughout its accessible areas.
The refuge gained federal protection in 1981 to safeguard endangered gray bats and American hart's-tongue ferns from mounting environmental pressures. This designation marked a turning point in efforts to preserve this underground habitat and the rare species that depend on it.
The site functions as an educational center where visitors learn about bat conservation through materials provided by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. People come here to understand the connection between protecting caves and supporting the species that depend on them.
The main cave entrance remains closed to visitors to protect the species inside, but well-marked trails and observation areas are available throughout the property for exploring on foot. Visit during warmer months when wildlife is more active and plan to spend several hours walking the grounds.
The cave system supports the largest winter colony of gray bats anywhere in the country, hosting over 1.5 million of these animals annually. This massive gathering in one location makes it one of North America's most important bat habitats.
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