Description:Quivira National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) was established in 1955 to provide wintering habitat and a migration stop for migratory birds moving up and down the Central Flyway. In 1999, Quivira NWR reached its present size of 22,135 acres. The name "Quivira" comes from a Native American tribe living in the area when the explorer, Coronado, visited in 1541. It is believed to mean "raccoon eyes" in reference to tattoos around the eyes of the Native Americans resembling a raccoon's mask.
For years, the marshes of Quivira NWR have attracted thousands of migrating waterfowl. These marshes, together with a wide diversity of other habitats, provide food, cover, and protection for wildlife. Wetlands, large and small, are present throughout the Refuge, which includes approximately 7,000 surface acres of slightly to moderately saline water. Fall flights of thousands of Canada geese, ducks, and other migratory birds such as sandhill cranes and shorebirds use these areas as they pass through the Refuge on their annual migrations.
Directions:To reach Quivira NWR from Wichita, Kansas, and points east, take K96 west to Hutchinson. Take Highway 50 west approximately 14 miles to Highway 14 north. Go 5 miles north to 4th street, turn left and go 17 miles west to the Refuge headquarters.
From Great Bend and points north, take Highway 281 south to 70th Street, and then head east 13 miles to the Refuge headquarters.
From Pratt and points south take Highway 281 north past St. John to 70th Street. Take 70th Street east 13 mil List of Activities
Autotouring
Fishing
Hiking
Hunting
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Address| Quivira National Wildlife Refuge |
| RR 3, Box 48A |
| Stafford, KS 67578 |
| Phone 620-486-2393 |
| Email quivira@fws.gov |
| Map of Quivira National Wildlife Refuge
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