New 335-acre sanctuary coming to Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge

Two male ring-necked ducks at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge in Decatur, Alabama (Tom Ress / Wheeler Wildlife Refuge Association)

Wintering waterfowl will have a new, dedicated sanctuary within Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge starting this migratory season, Nov. 15, 2026–Feb. 28, 2027, WNWR announced in mid-May.

Every winter, the 35,000-acre refuge becomes home to thousands of birds, including ducks, geese, sandhill cranes, pelicans, whooping cranes, bald eagles and more.

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Quick reference

Why is Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge creating a winter waterfowl sanctuary?

Northern shoveler ducks taking flight from an impoundment at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge in Decatur, Alabama — Northern shovelers at WNWR (Tom Ress / WWRA)

“This seasonal sanctuary is designed to give wintering waterfowl a peaceful, protected space during one of the most important times of the year. By reducing human disturbance, we’re helping these birds thrive and making your visits even more rewarding for photography, wildlife viewing and nature appreciation.”
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Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge winter waterfowl sanctuary details

A beautiful pair of mallards at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge in Decatur, Alabama — Mallards (Tom Ress / WWRA)

Here’s what we know:

Seasonal closure: The sanctuary area will be in effect from Nov. 15, 2026 to Feb. 28, 2027
Closed area: A 335-acre area + one-mile stretch of road through the Buckeye-Thorsen Arm Unit between HGH Road and JTT Road
Closed to: All public entry, including bikers + hikers
What will remain open: Access around the north side of the impoundment, including 20 miles of roads + trails in the surrounding area + 70 miles throughout the refuge

According to WNWR’s announcement about the sanctuary, more information will be available by late July in the 2026-27 Wheeler NWR Hunting Regulations & Permit brochure and on the Wheeler NWR website.