Keālia Pond National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) is a sanctuary for many species that are native and endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. Home to the endangered ae‘o (Hawaiian stilt) and ‘alae ke‘oke‘o (Hawaiian coot), the NWR provides nesting, feeding and resting habitat. In winter months, these inhabitants are joined by over 30 species of waterfowl, shorebirds, and migratory ducks who come from as far away as Alaska and Canada, and occasionally from Asia. There are a lot of things to do: view wildlife, head out on the trails, photograph nature, visit the visitor center, connect children with nature, educational and interpretive programs, and volunteer service projects. More info: Keālia Pond National Wildlife Refuge | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (fws.gov)
1st Saturday: A free, inclusive event for all ages! Attend a guided “walk-and-talk” native pollinator garden and wildlife exploration with NWR staff. Borrow binoculars to enhance the birding experience! the first exploration is at 9:30am and second exploration is at 1:30pm. You can also explore on your own: the coastal boardwalk, wildlife viewing ponds, and visitor center where you will find create native bird and plant themed-crafts and other educational activities.
Keālia Pond National Wildlife Refuge hours
- The Keālia Coastal Boardwalk is open daily from 6:30 am to 7:00 pm, including federal holidays.
- The Visitor Center is open Monday-Friday and 1st Saturday of each month from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm, unless it is a federal holiday.
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