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St. Marks
National Wildlife Refuge
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 Refuge Overview: Situated along the Gulf Coast of northwest Florida, in Wakulla, Jefferson, and Taylor counties, St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge was founded in 1932 specifically for wintering migratory birds. Since its establishment, the refuge has grown to encompass 68,000 acres. Migratory Bird Conservation Funds, which include Federal Duck Stamp dollars, have been used to purchase 31,000 of these acres.
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Habitat: St. Marks National Wildlife refuge protects
a variety of habitat types, including upland forests, palm hammocks,
forested swamps, tidal beaches, fresh and salt water marshes,
and a pristine salt water estuary. Thousands of migratory birds
and waterfowl flock to St. Marks each year. Over 300 species
of birds have been sited on the refuge, including 19 species
of ducks, hawks, falcons, and eagles. Ninety-eight bird species
nest at St. Marks, making it a critical production area. Several
threatened or endangered species also find refuge at St. Marks,
including bald eagles, least terns, red-cockaded woodpeckers,
flatwoods salamanders, loggerhead turtles, and West Indian manatees.
The area is also crawling with a number of different mammal,
amphibian, and reptile species. |
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Recreation Opportunities: With
its abundant wildlife, St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge is an ideal
destination for bird watchers, photographers, and school groups.
Fishing and hunting opportunities are also available on the refuge.
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Additional Resources
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