Refuges, Flyways and Migratory Waterfowl

摘要

National wildlife refuges around the country provide important hunting opportunities for waterfowl hunters. In many parts of the country, refuges are premier hunting destinations for both local and out-of-state hunters. Whether or not you hunt waterfowl on a National Wildlife Refuge, undoubtedly, the ducks and geese you hunt have spent a part of their life cycle on a refuge. They may have been hatched or reared on a Waterfowl Production Area or national wildlife refuge. Or they may have stopped to rest and refuel at one of the refuges strategically located along one of the four flyways during their annual spring and fall migrations. Or maybe they use a refuge on the wintering grounds to rest, feed and establish pair bonds before heading back north to start the cycle all over again. All species of ducks, geese and swans have unique preferences for nesting, migration and wintering habitats. Collectively, they need food, cover and water in order to survive.