What to Expect at the San Luis National Wildlife Refuge Complex
Bugling Elk - USFWS Photo
Good viewing opportunities
with two auto tour routes open every day with observation platforms
at Elk Route, Sousa Trail, and Winton Marsh Trail. There is also
an additional trail, open February-September, to the historic river
crossing settlement known as Chester.
- Feb-Mar Elk bulls
shed their antlers. Males regrow a new set each year in the spring.
- April-May Cows crop
(give birth to) calves.
- March-May Bulls in-velvet
(growing antlers). Vernal pools in flower.
- April-July Spotted
calves until weaned.
- July Bulls polish
antlers and begin bugling.
- Aug-Oct Harems defended
(rutting season).
- Nov-Feb Waterfowl
and crane numbers attheir peak.
Scenic auto tour route
and two foot trails, accompanied with observation platforms
by the entrance and at the Meadowlark Trail parking area.
Cananda Geese in flight - USFWS Photo
- Vernal Pools can be
found north of Sandy Mush Road, also on State Park, West Bear
Creek, and on Freitas.
- Vernal pools are most
colorful as wildflowers bloom in spring following the evaporation
of winter rains.
- Fairy shrimp and tadpole
shrimp attract ducks, cranes, Ibis, and shorebirds.
Migratory
birds peak at different times:
- Shorebirds August
and May
- Ducks Nov-Feb
- Geese Dec-Feb
- Swans Jan-Feb
- Cranes Nov-Feb
- Ibis Sept-May
- Pelicans Sept-May
- Curlews Sept-May
