US Fish and Wildlife Service

Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge

US Fish and Wildlife Service
Tamarac Refuge Wildlife
Transitional habitats provide a haven for a diversity of wildlife species and some are at the extreme edge of their range in Minnesota. Although native wildlife is important, priority is given to migratory birds and threatened and endangered species.

The forests and waters of Tamarac are home to an expanding bald eagle population and sightings are common during the breeding season. A nesting population of trumpeter swans are now present following a reintroduction program that began in 1987. The numbers of wild turkeys are likewise increasing due to reintroduction efforts. Migration of songbirds, especially neotropical migrants, can be spectacular in mid May. Waterfowl migration is best experienced in late fall, when dabbling ducks and geese are passing through and rafts of diving ducks may be seen on Tamarac's larger lakes.

Visitors look forward to the possibility of sighting white-tailed deer, porcupine, beaver, raccoon and fox. The more fortunate may even catch sight of elusive residents such as black bear, river otter, fisher, moose or timber wolf.

It is always a treat to see wildlife in their natural surroundings. You may have better success if you follow some of these suggestions:

---Always respect wildlife. Use of binoculars or a spotting scope will help you get a better view without getting too close and disturbing wildlife.

---Observe wildlife during their peak activity hours which are around dawn and dusk.

---Your vehicle is a good blind. Drive slowly and watch for movement. Use your ears as well as your eyes.

---Wear clothes that blend in with the habitat. Avoid using scented soaps, shampoos or perfumes prior to your visit to the woods. Use of insect repellent is recommended during the summer season.

---Hike quietly and into the wind, keeping the sun at your back. Freeze when you spot wildlife and use vegetation as a screen.

---Be observant. Look for clues of their presence such as tracks or scat. Pay close attention to where vegetation changes, such as the edge of a field or marsh.

---We encourage visitors to share wildlife sightings with others by recording them at the visitor center.

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