Kirwin Birds
category : Birdwatching
Kirwin NWR consists of 10,778 acres of diverse wildlife habitat including 34 species of mammals, 31 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 197 species of birds. Most noted as a waterfowl refuge, Kirwin NWR is a birder's paradise. Visitors to the Refuge are often awed by the impressive numbers of waterfowl, waterbirds, and shorebirds that pass through this area during spring and fall migration.
Four federally listed and two State listed threatened and endangered birds use the Refuge. In addition, 28 birds of conservation concern use Kirwin NWR during migrations each year, and nine of these remain to nest on the Refuge. When conditions are perfect, the Refuge can support approximately 1 million ducks and geese. Hundreds of great blue herons and double-crested cormorants nest in the flooded timber under high water conditions, while endangered interior least terns nest in times of low water. Greater prairie chickens and black-tailed prairie dogs are also found on the Refuge.
An auto tour route takes you through a variety of Refuge habitats and provides the best opportunities for viewing and photographing wildlife. Hiking is permitted throughout the Refuge and on designated trails, providing a closer look at the Refuge. Bicyclists may ride on any roads open to vehicle travel.
A visitor center interpreting Refuge habitats and associated wildlife is located at the Refuge headquarters building. Walking trails are located at the Prairie Dog Town and at Crappie Point and interpret the plants and animals associated with native prairie. Kiosks are located throughout the Refuge interpreting various aspects of the Refuge and the Refuge's role in the National Wildlife Refuge System.
Admission: No entrance or user fees
Hours: Reservoir Open 24 Hours
Address: 4 miles west and 1 mile south of Kirwin, KS or 11 miles southeast of Phillipsburg, KS on State highway 9.
Phone: 785-543-6673
Our Email: kirwin@fws.gov
Our Website:www.npwrc.usgs.gov/resource/birds/chekbird/r6/kirwin.htm
Come visit us in Kansas, Kansas