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CAUTION: BIRD NESTING SEASON

Birds are sensitive during the nesting season. Vegetation clearing, ground disturbance, heavy wake near shorelines and other site construction and recreational activities can destroy eggs or nestlings or cause nest abandonment. If you encounter an active nest, leave it be and give it space until young hatch and depart the area. Do not destroy eggs, chicks, or adults of wild bird species. Learn about the laws that govern migratory birds in Alaska including possible exceptions for subsistence gathering. More information on avoiding waterbird harassment and timing recommendations for construction activities to minimize impacts to nesting birds.

Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge is nestled within the Upper Tanana River Valley, the abundant wetlands and forests of the Refuge welcome thousands of birds and people crossing the border into Alaska each year. The public lands and waters of the Upper Tanana offer opportunity for people to enjoy natural resources made available by great migrations. Great migrations rely on healthy and balanced systems. The public lands and waters of the Upper Tanana offer year round opportunities for being outdoors and enjoying and living from these resources.

Visit Us

The Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge is a “must see” on your list of stops in Alaska. If you are driving into the state from the south on the Alaska Highway, you can’t miss it! As soon as you cross the border, the Refuge boundary is adjacent to the south side of the highway for almost 65 miles. Find your adventure with us!

Location and Contact Information

      What We Do

      Our Organization

      A bright blue sky obstructed by fluffy white clouds reflected off of a stream shot from inside a kayak
      The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages an unparalleled network of public lands and waters called the National Wildlife Refuge System. With more than 570 refuges spanning the country, this system protects iconic species and provides some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities on Earth.
      Program
      Washington,DC

      Our Species

      • Tetlin Refuge supports at least 42 species of mammals.
      • The Refuge provides habitat for 30 resident and 96 migratory bird species that stop and breed on the refuge.
      • There are 15 species of fish known to occur on the Refuge.
      • Only one amphibian, the wood frog (Rana sylvtica), is found in on the refuge.

      Our Library

      a line drawing of a sea otter holding her pup
      Conservation in Color: Alaska's Wildlife
      Download these digital coloring pages created by Alaskan artists to learn more about wildlife and conservation, while creating works of art.
      Library Collection
      18 Items

      Projects and Research

      We have several active projects. The Lynx Project is a collaboration between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the University of Alaska Fairbanks, and the National Park Service. We are also studying humpback whitefish and are involved with regional efforts to detect, manage, and control invasive species invasive species
      An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.

      Learn more about invasive species       in Alaska.