JHP_151117_0131Harem of Tule Elk in a field at San Luis National Wildlife Refuge, California

The San Luis National Wildlife Refuge (SLNWR) is part of the Federal Fish and Wildlife Services Division.  The first acres of land were purchased with funds from a duck stamp in 1966 and has since expanded to over 26,800 acres of diverse environments just north of Los Banos, CA.  The refuge lays in the San Joaquin River valley and the waters and tributaries of the river stretch throughout the refuge to create the largest area of California freshwater wetlands.   It is free to visit but be sure to check for open hours.

JHP_151117_0030Birds in the wetlands of San Luis National Wildlife Refuge, California.

Many species of waterfowl and migrating birds call this spot home throughout the year and particularly throughout the winter. There have been as many as 25 species of shorebirds at one time documented at the refuge.  The wetlands comprise more than a quarter of SLNWL, bring in lots of the migratory birds and provide much needed habitat for a variety of species and varieties of plants.  The above image shows a permanent marsh surrounded by bulrush (cattail).

  JHP_151117_0044Owl at San Luis National Wildlife Refuge, California

The other 3/4ths of the SLNWR is filled with grassland which is called the uplands.  These areas provide habitat for many mammals and predatory birds.  The above, I believe, is a short-eared owl that blends perfectly into its surroundings.

JHP_151117_0073_tonemappedTule Elk at San Luis National Wildlife Refuge, California

Tule Elk are one of the biggest highlights and success stories at the refuge.  The influx of white settlers at the turn of the 20th century almost completely wiped out the population from the assumed half million that dwelled in California only 50 years before to only 20-30.  In the 1970's an enclosure was built and 18 head were moved in to begin the repopulation throughout California, the only state in which they reside.  Today, there are about 4,000 individuals covering the state. This small (375-550 pounds) and non-migratory subspecies of elk can be seen daily by taking one of the three auto tour routes at the refuge. 

JHP_151117_0001-2Flowers of San Luis National Wildlife Refuge, California

"Unless someone like you

cares a whole awful lot,

nothing is going to get better.

It's not. "

- The Lorax -

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