Aransas NWR was originally established by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1937 as a “refuge and breeding ground for migratory birds and other wildlife…” The Refuge Complex is comprised of over 115,000 acres including the Blackjack Peninsula (Aransas proper), Matagorda Island, Myrtle Foester Whitmire, Tatton, and Lamar units. These areas provide vital resting, feeding, wintering, and nesting grounds for migratory birds and native Texas wildlife.
The Refuge is world renowned for hosting the largest wild flock of endangered whooping cranes each winter. Other native species you can see on the Refuge include the American alligator, javelina, roseate spoonbill, white-tailed deer, armadillo, and spectacular wildflowers. There are 7 walking trails and a picnic area.
The Visitor Center with interpretive displays, exhibits, auditorium, programs, informational pamphlets, binoculars-on-loan, bathrooms, nature store, snacks, and drinks is open 8:30 am - 4:30 p. m daily. Admission $5 per vehicle
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