The Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge is a 2,088 acre refuge on the banks of the Rio Grande that was established in 1943 for the protection of migratory birds. Santa Ana is a reminder of the semitropical thorn forest that once dominated the area. The refuge is home to almost 400 species of birds and 300 species of butterflies. Bobcat, coyote, armadillo, long-tailed weasel and Mexican ground squirrel are a few of the mammals found on the refuge. The endangered ocelot and jaguarundi are also present but rarely seen. There are 12 miles of foot trails and access roads that are open to hiking and a seven mile wildlife drive that is open on weekends during the summer.
The Visitor Center is open seven days a week (except Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year's Day) from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
The entry fee is $3 per vehicle but entrance to the refuge is free on the first Sunday of each month. (956) 784-7500
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