Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge is a unique wetland habitat where you can see and experience all types of wildlife located here on the Outer Banks. Located on Roanoke Island is where you'll find this great refuge that is a little over 152,000 acres of reserved & protected wetlands. Established on March 14th, 1984 this is one of the largest wildlife refuges located on the coast of North Carolina and is home to waterfowl & migratory birds, numerous endangered species, black bears, and other diverse wildlife. We at Joe Lamb Jr. & Associate wanted to share with you a few things to know before heading over to Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge to explore it.
Why a Wildlife Refuge?
Many people have questioned why there was a need for a wildlife refuge on the Outer Banks, and the answer is simple, to protect not only the wetlands but the wildlife too. Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge was set up to preserve the many endangered species known to the area, such as the American alligator, red wolf, and red-cockaded woodpeckers. While the red wolves have recently been re-established in the area, they are still endangered. Some of the documented efforts made during this re-establishment is increasing the total count of red wolves in 2011 from 89 to roughly a new population total of 130, current day numbers. To keep accurate data on the re-establishment project there are 10 known red wolves that are on active radio collars to keep up with any pack changes. How cool is that?! The mountains aren't the only place where you'll see a black bear, as it's common to see them on the coast of North Carolina. Protecting all the wildlife, whether they are native to the area or they've migrated to the OBX, this National Wildlife Refuge is the perfect place for them.
Visiting the National Wildlife Refuge
On regular occasions, the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge's Visitor Center would be open. Still, due to the safety measures that have been put into place, it is closed at the moment. However, the visitor center is typically open from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday - Saturday and 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm on Sundays. It is free to explore the visitor center, and it has many different exhibits that you may not get to see elsewhere. However, the land is open for all to explore as there are many various activities you can do there.
Activities You Can Do
If you're looking for some fun things to do while you're at the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge, there are plenty of available items. Wildlife Drive is where you will find the black bear, waterfowl and you may get to see the red wolves. Two trails are open for you to explore and hike for all the outdoor junkies in your group. If you're looking for more adventure, then maybe Habitat Geocaching is what you and the kids can do. Be sure to bring your camera as you can capture the beauty of the wildlife at the refuge.
After exploring the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge, head back to your Outer Banks vacation rental as you relax. We look forward to seeing you and your family on your next visit to stay with us and explore the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge!
Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates is one of the most trusted vacation rental managers in the local area by growing into a market leader in the Vacation Rental and Sales Industry. Joe Lamb Jr. and his family have played a vital and intricate role in the Outer Banks Community for decades.
Over the past 50+ years, Joe Lamb Jr. & Associates have worked diligently to help promote the Outer Banks for the amazing beach and family vacation destination that it is, helping to increase tourism in the area and grow our beautiful community.
