|
The Pablo National Wildlife Refuge, an easement refuge, situated on tribal lands of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai tribes three miles south of Polson, preserves critical waterfowl habitat. It is a great area for bird-watching and nature photography.
The refuge covers 2,500 acres of water, marsh and upland grassland. The terrain is rolling and interspersed with pothole wetlands.
Fishing for yellow perch and largemouth bass is popular. Ice fishing is permitted after the waterfowl hunting season has ended and the refuge reopens.
Waterfowl numbers vary during the year. The most numerous nesting species are Canada geese, mallards, and redheads. Pintail, American widgeon, shoveler, blue and green-winged teal, ruddy duck, gadwall, common merganser, loon and coot are also present. There is an active bald eagle nest.
In 1996, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks released 19 trumpeter swans here to reestablish a breeding population.
Common mammals include muskrat and striped skunk. Mink, badgers and porcupines have also been observed.
A portion of the refuge is closed year-round to minimize disturbance to birds and nesting areas.
The entire refuge closes during hunting season. The refuge is closed to hunting.
Outdoor Activities |
