Millions of shorebirds migrate from northern breeding grounds to southern wintering grounds each year, stopping at the refuge along the way!
Shorebirds to Return to the Refuge Soon
A conservation story by Carla Rich Montez. Photo of American by courtesy of California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
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Sanctuary period on Chautauqua ends on February 1. Refuge now open to regular public use.
Rules and Regulations
Iconic bird enjoys rebound at Chautauqua-Emiquon Complex,
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A wildlife conservation story by Carla Rich Montez. Photos courtesy of Jakob Cackowski
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Update: staging on parking lots will not be allowed this season. Follow the link for an introduction to waterfowl hunting on Chautauqua and Emiquon National Wildlife Refuges, including regulations and water level information. Photo: Grandparent and child hunting at sunset by USFWS.
Our public restrooms are closed in response to guidance from state and local public health officials. All other public areas at Chautauqua, Emiquon, and Meredosia National Wildlife Refuges remain open. Rules and regulations still apply.
From making trails to woodworking, there are plenty of ways to volunteer at your local refuge. We would not be here without you.
We provide regionally specific environmental education programs for school classes, continuing learners, and groups of all ages and sizes. Email us to make a reservation for your next trip.
Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge is managed as part of the Illinois River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge Complex.
The National Wildlife Refuge System, within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, manages a national network of lands and waters set aside to conserve America's fish, wildlife, and plants.
A conservation story by Master Naturalist Carla Rich Montez. Photo of two coyotes by Anna Weyers/USFWS.
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