Refuge biologists collaborate annually with Alaska Department of Fish and Game to conduct intensive aerial surveys (IAS) during the summer months to monitor bear population, density and composition on several stream systems within the Refuge. IAS involve flying a small aircraft low over the Refuge and counting the number of bears spotted. There is only a short window of time in May each year that IAS can be completed between when bears emerge from their dens and when green-up occurs and plants obscure the line of sight from the air.

Programs

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

Facilities

a kodiak brown bear sow with three large cubs stand on the banks of a lake
Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge
Homeland of the Alutiiq Sugpiaq peoples, Kodiak Archipelago is located in the Gulf of Alaska, 30 miles from the nearest mainland coast, across the notoriously temperamental Shelikof Strait. Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge spans almost two million acres and covers more than 2/3rds of Kodiak Island,...
National Wildlife Refuge
Kodiak,AK

Partners

Latest News

Sandhill Cranes flying over the Refuge from a distance.
Migratory Species
Migratory Bird Annual Status Reports 
Annual migratory bird population status reports are posted each year in mid to late August. Highlighted species include waterfowl, American woodcock, mourning dove, band-tailed pigeon, and sandhill Crane. The annual Migratory Bird Hunting Activity and Harvest Report is also included.
Migratory Bird Program Daher Kodiak survey plane in front of the International Federal Pavilion at EAA AirVenture convention
Our People
USFWS at EAA AirVenture
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Branch of Aviation Management showcased the captivating field of aviation and conservation at the world's largest aviation celebration. The Service’s booth stood out in the International Federal Pavilion by educating and inspiring the public about the essential...
Greater sandhill cranes fill the land and air at Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge in Colorado
Science and Technology
Using Cutting-Edge Technology to Monitor Sandhill Cranes
The Platte River in Nebraska is renowned worldwide for one thing – sandhill cranes. As part of our federal responsibility to conserve and manage sandhill cranes, our Migratory Bird Program has a robust monitoring program in place. And now, in a collaborative effort with our partners, we are using...