About the Moosehorn NWR

     Moosehorn NWR was established in 1937 for migratory bird conservation.  This refuge (of the more than 530 NWR in the USA) is the only refuge charged with American Woodcock research that has resulted in development of significant management techniques for woodcock. To this end, more woodcock have been banded at Moosehorn than anywhere else in the Atlantic Flyway and perhaps in North America.

     The Moosehorn consist of two divisions.  The Baring Unit that includes over 20,000 acres and the Edmunds Unit that includes over 8,000 acres.  There are over 15 miles of hiking trails and over 50 miles of dirt roads open for visitors to walk, bike, snowshoe or cross-country ski on.  Come and enjoy!

     Refuge management efforts are aimed at the forest, open and shrub lands, and wetlands to ensure favorable habitat conditions for resident and migratory wildlife.  More than 220 species of birds have been recorded here.  Wetland enhancement has provided good habitats for waterfowl, rails, and other birds and mammals associated with wetlands.  More duck are banded at Moosehorn NWR in late summer than anywhere else in Maine. 

© Andy Slater

How to get there . . . The Moosehorn Headquarters is located off Route 1, southwest of Calais about 3 miles South on the Charlotte Road.

           © Andy Slater

Located in Washington County, Maine 

known as the "Sunrise County" where American greets the sun.

© Alana Ranney wwwlafinephoto.com 

Woodcock Program

© © Alana Ranney

© Alana Ranney

Nesting Bald Eagles

                                © Andy Slater

The refuge has nesting bald eagles that can be viewed from a viewing platform just off Route 1 southwest of Calais.

                                            © Andy Slater

                                  © Andy Slater

© Andy Slater