Note to Editors: Opportunities to view and film the large flocks of birds at Kern NWR should continue through March. For best results, coordinate with Refuge Manager David Hardt.
Bird Population Soars, Providing Spectacular Viewing Opportunities
For the first time in its 40-year history, the Kern National Wildlife Refuge -- the most important wintering area for waterfowl in the southern San Joaquin Valley -- was able to flood all 6,500 acres of its wetland habitat this winter. In past years, the refuge in northern Kern County, CA, has flooded between 2,200 acres and 5,600 acres.
The increased water supply has provided more abundant food and improved nesting conditions for many bird species. That has meant a marked increase in bird populations and species diversity.
