Coronavirus (COVID-19) Notice
Although most refuge lands and outdoor spaces have remained open for the public to enjoy, we encourage you to:

  • Check local conditions on this website and call ahead for current information
  • Follow current CDC safe practices by maintaining a safe distance between yourself and other groups
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
  • Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
  • Most importantly, stay home if you feel sick


Features

  • FamilyFishingDerby2-Millsxrotate

    Ducks Unlimited Fishing Derby

    Every year in September Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge and Ducks Unlimited put on a fishing event that is fun for the whole family.

    Learn More

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    Open Roads Days

    "Open Roads Days" events are held throughout the year to provide opportunities to fish and observe wildlife.

    2020 Mackay Island Calendar of Events

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    Wings Over Water

    Wings Over Water occurs every year in the fall and offers an assortment of ways to experience the wildness and uniqueness of the area.

    Wings Over Water

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    Monarchs Getting Ready to Migrate

    As fall approaches the migratory generation of monarchs will emerge.

    Report Your Sightings

Featured Wildlife

American Black Duck

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American black ducks migrate to Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge in the fall from their breeding grounds in eastern Canada. They arrive in October and remain until February.

Learn More

Snow Goose

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Snow geese migrate to Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge in the fall from their breeding grounds on the tundra in northeastern Canada. They arrive in October and remain until February. They reside in the moist soil units and marshes on the refuge and in the Bay and River surrounding the refuge.

Learn More
Take a Sneak Peek

Take a Virtual Tour of Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge

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There's nothing like experiencing this refuge in person, but take a sneak peek to give you a hint of what's in store for you here!

Virtual Tour of Mackay Island

About the Complex

North Carolina Coastal Plain National Wildlife Refuges Complex

Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge is managed as part of the North Carolina Coastal Plain National Wildlife Refuges Complex.

Read more about the complex
About the NWRS

National Wildlife Refuge System

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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.

Learn more about the NWRS
Follow NWRS Online