Did you know that North Dakota has more wildlife refuges than any other state? There is an abundance of them across the prairie. One county, in particular, has four beautiful wildlife refuges that are well worth a visit, and more people should know about it. Take a look for yourself and see what it has to offer:
Stutsman County, located in central North Dakota, has four scenic wildlife refuges that are well worth a visit. Most are open to the public to visit and see why they are so beautiful, and important.
Brandon Jones/USFWS/Flickr
The wildlife refuges include the Arrowwood NWR, Chase Lake NWR, Half-Way Lake NWR, and the Edward M. Brigham III Alkali Lake Sanctuary.
Mostofa Ahsan/Google
Each refuge is centered around a lake, wetlands, or a combination of the two. They provide the perfect nesting grounds for thousands of birds and help keep their populations alive and well. They’re naturally gorgeous and great spots for taking photos.
Andy Zheng/Google
Chase Lake NWR is notable for the immense amount of white pelicans that spend the summers here nesting and raising their young. They are a majestic sight and a great reason to go see the refuge.
Rick Bohn/USFWS/Flickr
Tons of other bird species, from your average mallard duck to the elegant western grebe, shown below, can be found at these refuges and sanctuaries.
Neil Shook/USFWS/Flickr
Needless to say, if you’re into bird watching then this is the spot for you! Bird enthusiasts young and old, or even just people who enjoy some time spent outdoors, will love these refuges.
USFWS/Flickr
Most of them also have visitors centers for the public to experience. Information about the refuge and even museum-like exhibits can be found inside. It is both a visually beautiful experience as well as an educational one.
t adams/Google
With thousands of acres between all four refuges, Stutsman County is a great place to visit to see protected, pristine lands and many animals in their natural habitats. It’s worth a visit, especially in spring and summer.
Andy Zheng/Google
Learn more about each refuge by clicking the following links:
Brandon Jones/USFWS/Flickr
Mostofa Ahsan/Google
Andy Zheng/Google
Rick Bohn/USFWS/Flickr
Neil Shook/USFWS/Flickr
USFWS/Flickr
t adams/Google
Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge
Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge (including Halfway Lake NWR)
Edward M. Brigham III Alkali Lake Sanctuary
There’s no shortage of wildlife refuges here in North Dakota. Discover another awesome refuge right here.
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