The wetland regions in South Texas are unique habitats filled with amazing flora and fauna. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service manages multiple wildlife refuges along the coast to protect these fragile ecosystems. They offer excellent recreational opportunities such as fishing, hunting, bird-watching, and nature walks. Here are three of the best that are close to Richmond. Just watch out for those gators! 

Brazoria 

The closest refuge to Richmond, Brazoria offers three different walking trails with docks for fishing. There’s also a 7.5-mile driving route through the park for those who prefer to view wildlife through the comfort of their vehicle. Wildlife includes 400 species of birds, 95 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 130 species of butterflies and dragonflies.

Anahuac

Anahuac Refuge features multiple walking trails, an auto-tour loop around Shoveler Pond, and a butterfly garden. The area features plenty of gators, a high diversity of bird and butterfly species, and mammals including coyotes and bobcats.  

McFaddin

McFaddin Refuge is a perfect habitat for blue crab, and crabbing is a popular recreational activity here. Other wildlife includes river otters, bobcats, gray foxes, coyotes, and of course, the American alligator. The refuge is a primary wintering location for a variety of ducks and geese. Shorebirds and wading birds also migrate here in the hundreds of thousands. 

For more awesome destinations and happenings in and around Richmond, peruse the Olympus at Waterside Estates blog.