Treat yourself with a visit to the Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) during National Wildlife Refuge Week, October 14-20, 2018. Enjoy the soul-stirring sights and sounds of nature. Celebrate America’s wildlife heritage and see what wildlife refuges are doing to conserve it. Discover Maui’s largest lowland wetland and the creatures that call it home. All activities are free and visitors should meet at the Visitor Center.
Here’s what Kealia Pond NWR has planned to help you celebrate National Wildlife Refuge Week:
Tuesday, October 16th GUIDED BIRD WALK at 9am: Whether you are an experienced birder or just a beginner, you will enjoy the variety of birds that live in or migrate through the refuge. Visitors are encouraged to bring binoculars, water, and sturdy walking shoes.
Wednesday, October 17th HAWAIIAN HOARY BAT presentation at 1pm: Learn more about Hawaii’s endangered and only terrestrial mammal and how information gathered at Kealia Pond is helping inform biologists about this elusive species.
Thursday, October 18th GUIDED BIRD WALK at 9am: It’s a great time to learn more about the refuge and the migratory and native birds. Visitors are encouraged to bring binoculars, water, and sturdy walking shoes.
Saturday, October 20th SATURDAY AT THE REFUGE: Kealia Pond NWR refuge and visitor center will be open to the public from 9am-2pm. Join us for a guided bird and wetlands walk at 10am or a Hawaiian Hoary bat presentation at 12pm. Stroll through the native pollinator garden to see greenery that attracts bees, moths, beetles and butterflies or enjoy walking the wetland paths to quietly observe nature. This family-friendly event also features crafts for keiki, wildlife viewing opportunities, and a visitor center with interpretive displays.
Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday to Friday. Visitor center hours are Monday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. and Tuesday through Friday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., closed on federal holidays. The Kealia Coastal Boardwalk is open seven days a week from sunrise until 7 p.m, including federal holidays. For more information contact Courtney Brown at courtney_brown@fws.gov or (808) 875-1582.
