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Recreation

Nature Center - The Guam National Wildlife Refuge Ritidian Unit welcomes the public to visit the newly constructed Nature Center. Open from 8:30 – 4:00 p.m., visitors will experience what Guam may have looked and sounded like 500 years ago. The four 16-foot murals depict Guam’s natural environment before European contact.

Opportunities for observation and photography:

Marine Life – Marine life is evident throughout the refuge, from fossils on the cliff walls to the beautiful coral reefs that make up more than two thirds of the total refuge area.

Cultural Resources – Archaeological evidence of Guam’s pre historic Chamorro culture can be found throughout the refuge. Visitors can participate in forest and cave tours to view pictographs, ancient Chamorro pottery pieces and latte stones, which are the symbol of the Chamorro people.

Flora and Fauna – The forest at the Guam National Wildlife Refuge Ritidian Unit is made up of many different plants and trees some of which produce beautiful flowers and fruits. These forests support an array of wildlife, such as birds, insects, lizards and crabs.

Due to the introduction of the brown treesnake, many of Guam’s native birds have disappeared from the island; however, some very resilient bird species remain. The yellow bittern can be found foraging in the vegetation along trails and roads as well as in grassy fields. Seabirds such as great frigatebirds, white terns and brown noddies can be seen flying along the shoreline.

The refuge also hosts a very large population of native butterflies. The blue-banded king crow can be found in great numbers throughout the forest and along the beaches.

Visitors will also find geckos, skinks and crabs throughout the refuge in abundance.