For the Bird Watcher: Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge in Arkansas

From Dardanelle take Rte. 7S and turn left on Cty. Rte. 155, Arkansas

This 7,050-acre sanctuary is actually an island that was formed in 1954 when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers cut a new channel for the Arkansas River across a deep bend in the old channel.

Located on a main flyway of migrating birds, the refuge, with its ponds and lakes, is a wintering home for some 5,000 Canada geese and at least 35,000 ducks. Up to 40 bald eagles can be seen sojourning here from Nov. to Mar. Permanent residents include herons, egrets, gulls, and terns. More than a quarter of the refuge is farmed, and a portion of each year’s crop of corn and wheat is left in the fields for the birds.

You can observe most of the refuge by following the eight-mile self-guiding all-weather drive. Fishing is good, and boat ramps are located on Lodge Lake, Long Lake, and Old River Channel.

–Open year-round. Fee charged.

www.fws.gov/southeast/HollaBend
(479) 229-4300

Did you know?
The Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge marks the northern extreme of the American alligator’s habitat.