Seasonal Highlights at Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge

Spring

Beginning in April thousands of migrating waterfowl stop to rest and refuel at several of the refuge wetlands--the only wetlands around for 50 miles. By May, most of the songbirds are starting to arrive.

USFWS Photo

They are also dependant on the riparian corridor for refueling on the abundant insect populations. Some birds, like the black-chinned hummingbird, stay behind to nest here but many will continue north to their breeding grounds. Long-eared and great-horned owls young are beginning to learn how to fly while the red-tailed hawks and ospreys are just beginning to nest.

Summer

Young of all species begin to be visible after they get old enough to be able to escape from predators and start foraging with their parents. If you’re lucky you’ll see river otter young on Butch Cassidy wetland or the river; elk calves crossing the river with their mothers; or sage thrashers feeding their raucous young. The best time to observe wildlife is in the early morning during the hot summer months.

Fall

As the cottonwoods begin to turn a brilliant yellow, birds begin their return trip through Browns Park NWR on their way to wintering grounds in the southern United States, Central and South America. Elk are bugling within the valley while the other animals try to put on fat to survive the winter or the flight to wintering grounds.

Winter

The Flaming Gorge Dam releases a constant flow of water throughout the winter which keeps the Green River from freezing as it had in the past. This riverine habitat draws bald eagles here to fish all winter long. The refuge also provides critical habitat for wintering mule deer, elk, and pronghorn. Geese and several species of waterfowl spend their time on the Green River. Rough-legged hawks migrate from the far north to spend their winters here, too. Keep your eyes open for river otter tracks sliding in the snow on hills as well.