Wildlife watching

Established for migratory waterfowl there are a variety of areas on refuge to observe the ducks, geese and shorebirds that call the refuge home. At our Visitor Center we have a small overlook with scopes and a bench for visitors to look out at Melton Pond. At the Fred Quintana Crane Lake Overlook, visitors can use the picnic area to watch the migratory birds using the lake. Please do not walk to the lake from the structure or pit toilet. The areas past the parking areas and structures is closed to the public. Visitors can also watch wildlife from the Auto Tour on State Hwy 281 and County Rd C22C, popular sights include the resident elk herd, birds of prey, and songbirds. Some areas of the refuge can be far from observation of the wildlife with the naked eye, so the refuge offers binocular rentals at the Visitor Center during its open hours. To learn more about rentals please call the refuge at 505-425-3581.