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Las Vegas
National Wildlife Refuge
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 Refuge Overview: Situated on the high plateau of northeastern New Mexico, Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge (Spanish for “the meadow”) lies at the intersection of the Great Plains, Rocky Mountains, and the Chihuahuan Desert. Migratory Bird Conservation Funds, which include Federal Duck Stamp dollars, have been used to purchase all of the refuge’s 8,672 acres.
John and Karen Hollingsworth/USFWS |
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| Wildlife and
Habitat: A variety of habitat types converge
at Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge, including native prairie
grasslands, marshes, ponds, timbered canyons (piñon pine
and juniper) and riparian areas. Over 270 species of birds can
be found on the refuge, with 80 of those species nesting there.
During the migration seasons, thousands of ducks come to Las
Vegas to rest and feed. Mallards, canvasbacks, widgeon, ruddy
ducks, northern shovelers, pintails, and gadwall are the most
common duck species sighted. Other wildlife, such as mule deer,
pronghorn, wild turkey, coyotes, and fourteen different species
of raptors, also inhabitant Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge. |
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Recreation Opportunities: With
its abundant wildlife, Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge is an ideal
destination for bird watchers, photographers, and school groups.
There are also limited dove and goose hunting opportunities on the
refuge.
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Additional Resources
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