Located on the southeast side of Kaua`i, Huleia NWR lies adjacent to the famous Menehune Fish Pond, a registered National Historic Landmark. The Huleia Refuge is approximately 241 acres, and was established in 1973 to provide open, productive wetlands for endangered Hawaiian waterbirds. The refuge is located in a relatively flat valley along the Huleia River bordered by a steep wooded hillside. This land was used for wetland agriculture including taro and rice, but is managed today as a refuge for wildlife. Thirty-one species of birds, including endangered Hawaiian stilt (ae'o), coot ('alae ke'oke'o), moorhen ('alae`ula), and duck (koloa maoli) can be found here. Of the 31 species, 18 are introduced, and there are no native mammals, reptiles or amphibians here. It is believed however, that the Hawaiian hoary bat ('ope'ape'a) might live in this area. In order to protect the endangered species that live in Huleia National Wildlife Refuge, it is closed to the public but can be viewed at an overlook maintained by the State of Hawai`i at the Historic Menehune Fish Pond. For more information: Mike Hawkes, Refuge Manager Kaua`i National Wildlife Refuge Complex P.O. Box 1128 Kilauea, Hawai`i 96754 (808) 828-1413 (808) 828-1414 fax E-mail: mike_hawkes@fws.gov Kaua`i National Wildlife Refuge Complex Kilauea Hanalei Main Hawaiian Islands NWRs Top of Page