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San Bernard
National Wildlife Refug
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 Refuge Overview: Part of the Texas Mid-Coast National Wildlife Refuge Complex (along with Brazoria and Big Boggy National Wildlife Refuges), San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge preserves important fresh and saltwater marshes and ponds along Texas’s southeastern gulf coast. The three refuge complex provides critical resting and foraging habitat for wintering waterfowl and neotropical songbirds. San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge alone protects more than 56,000 acres, including nearly 30,000 acres purchased with Federal Duck Stamp dollars.Gary Zahm/USFWS Photo |
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| Wildlife and
Habitat: The vast marshes and protected ponds
of San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge are a haven for thousands
of snow geese and other waterfowl that come there each year to
rest and feed. Bottomland forests and willow trees attract high
numbers of prothonatory and northern parula warblers eager to
rest from their long journey north. This warbler “fallout” occurs
when warm, moist air off the Gulf of Mexico collides with cold
air from the main land, creating torrential rains and high winds
that cause these migrating birds to drop to single locations
where trees and shrubs can provide rest and protection. In all,
some 237 species of migratory birds and 29 million individuals
pass through San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge each year. |
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| Recreation Opportunities: Though
most of the refuge is closed to public use in order to provide
sanctuary for migrating birds, opportunities still abound for outdoor
recreation at San Bernard. Designated units are open for fishing
and waterfowl hunting, and a 3-mile auto tour route and several
hiking trails provide great opportunities for wildlife viewing
and photography. |
Additional Resources
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