The 4,333-acre Optima National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1975 under the authority of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act and is managed for resident wildlife and migratory birds.

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National wildlife refuges offer us all a chance to unplug from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with our natural surroundings. Optima National Wildlife Refuge offers wildlife-dependent recreation, including opportunities to watch and photograph wildlife and public hunting.

Location and Contact Information

      Our Species

      Optima National Wildlife Refuge is located in central mixed-grass prairie. Shortgrass prairie species such as buffalo grass, blue gramma, sandsage and yucca dominate the uplands of the refuge. 

      A brown, white and tan bird of prey flying overhead in front of a blue sky

      The Prairie Falcon is a large, light brown-colored falcon ranging from around 37-47 cm in length. Some distinguishing characteristics of this bird include a large, dark eye, square shaped head, a dark ear patch, and a white area around the eye. The dark colored feathers on the underside of the...

      FWS Focus

      Our Library

      Optima NWR Hunt Brochure

      Hunting regulations for Optima NWR