San Luis National Wildlife Refuge Complex
Pacific Southwest Region

What to Expect at the San Luis National Wildlife Refuge Complex

San Luis NWR

Bugling Elk

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.

Merced NWR

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

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

 

Last updated: February 2, 2009