Beavertail Cactus. Photo credit: USFWS

Refuge Quick Facts

When was it established?  February 14, 1941
How big is it?   25,768 acres
Why is it here?   As a refuge and breeding area for migratory birds and other wildlife.

Imperial National Wildlife Refuge protects wildlife habitat along 30 miles of the lower Colorado River in Arizona and California, including the last unchannelized section before the river enters Mexico.

The river and its associated backwater lakes and wetlands are a green oasis, contrasting with the surrounding desert mountains.