The Refuge is located 180 miles east of Tutuila in American Samoa. Rose Atoll is one of the smallest atolls in world, with 21 acres of emergent land and 1,600 acres of lagoon. There are two low, sandy islands--Rose and Sand. The primary reef-building species at the atoll is coralline algae, giving the atoll its rose-colored hue. giant clams, nesting seabirds, sea turtles, and rare species of fish in American Samoa.   Endangered humpback whales, pilot whales, dolphins, endangered hawksbill, and threatened green sea turtles have been seen at Rose Atoll.  The atoll supports the most important seabird colony in the region, since approximately 97% of the seabird population of American Samoa resides on Rose. The two islands provide important nesting and roosting habitat for 12 species of federally protected migratory seabirds.
The refuge is closed to the general public

Rose Atoll National Wildlife Refuge is closed to general public access to protect and preserve the unique and diverse native species, biological communities, and the cultural heritage tied to them. Entry by Special Use Permit or accompanied by Refuge staff only.

Location and Contact Information

      REPORT VIOLATIONS

      Law enforcement issues should be referred to the refuge manager.  

      You may also report violations to our "TIPS" line 1-844-FWS-TIPS (379-8477).

      About Us

      Rose Atoll National Wildlife Refuge is 180 miles of  Pago Pago Harbor, American Samoa, and the only atoll in the Samoan Archipelago. Rose Atoll, like Jarvis Island, are the only national wildlife refuges located south of the equator. The atoll itself is made up of a coral and coralline algal reef, with two tiny islands, Rose and Sand Islands. Rose Island is 17 acres with a maximum elevation of 10 feet, while Sand Island is approximately seven acres, but can change in size and shape in response to weather. 

      What We Do

      The mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System is to administer a national network of lands and waters for the conservation, management and, where appropriate, restoration of the fish, wildlife and plant resources and their habitats within the United States for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.

      Our Species

      Rose Atoll National Wildlife Refuge is home to numerous species of unique wildlife. The coral communities of Rose include about 100 species that are distinctive and different than other islands in Samoa. The biodiversity of the atoll teems with fish, sea turtles, and seabirds. 

      A teal parrotfish swims next to some coral. It has pink lines running across its face.
      Image Details

      Get Involved

      There are many ways to support your national wildlife refuges. There are non-profit organizations that support wildlife and restoration projects within the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument. Volunteer opportunities can also be found at volunteer.gov.