Description
Quivira National Wildlife Refuge was created in 1955 and in 1998 the refuge reached its present size of 22,135 acres (89.58 km2). The Refuge is bisected by Rattlesnake Creek and has two shallow lakes, Big Salt Marsh and Little Salt Marsh, that have attracted migratory birds and animals for centuries. Twenty-one miles of canals have been constructed to create additional marshland. The Refuge has 34 wetlands from 10 to 1,500 acres (6.1 km2) in size totaling 7,000 acres (28 km2). The wetlands have high salt levels.
Quivira also has about 13,000 acres (53 km2) of sand dunes covered with prairie grasses. The sand prairie has species from both the eastern Tallgrass prairie and the western Shortgrass prairie or steppe. About 1,500 acres (6.1 km2) of the Refuge is wooded with trees such as cottonwood, black locust, and eastern redcedar. Another 1,200 acres (4.9 km2) of Refuge land is farmed with winter wheat and milo. A portion of the crop is left in the fields for wildlife. Cattle are also grazed on part of the Refuge to simulate grazing by bison, which are no longer present. Bison grazing was a traditional component of the ecology of the region.
Two roads, one 14 miles (23 km) and the other 4 miles (6.4 km) in length, afford opportunities for wildlife viewing. A 1.2-mile (1.9 km) nature trail passes through wodlands, grasslands, and across a marsh on an elevated boardwalk. Birdhouse Boulevard is a 1,000-foot (300 m) wheel-chair accessible trail lined with birdhouses. A wildlife observation tower is located on the south side of Little Salt Marsh. Two photography blinds and a spotting scope aid in observing wildlife. Hunting for small game and waterfowl is permitted on 8,000 acres (32 km2) of the refuge. A "Kid's Fishing Pond" is located near the Visitor Center which has interpretative displays. Fishing is permitted in the marshes. Bicycles and horses are permitted on established trails and roads. Boats of any kind are prohibited.
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