Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Since its establishment in 1963, the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge has preserved open space and protected habitat for thousands of species of plants and animals. It is an important stop over for migratory birds and a wintering home for waterfowl. It has been recognized as a globally important bird area providing nesting habitat. It is also home to 14 state and federally listed threatened and endangered species including sea turtles, manatees and Florida scrub jays. Over the decades the refuge's popularity as a place to fish, hunt, bird, photograph and kayak has increased until today the Refuge hosts over 1.5 million visits each year.