Home to the largest wintering colony of gray bats in the US, Fern Cave National Wildlife Refuge was established to protect this endangered species.
Visit Us
Fern Cave itself is not open to the public due to the potential for disturbance of the gray and Indiana bats, but visitors are welcome on other portions of the refuge.
Location and Contact Information
- Fern Cave National Wildlife RefugeView DetailsC/O Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge 2700 Refuge Headquarters Road Decatur, AL 35603-5202
About Us
Fern Cave NWR was established for the purpose of protecting the endangered species of bats that live in the cave the refuge is named after. With over one million bats, Fern Cave is home to the largest wintering colony of gray bats in the United States.
What We Do
The predominant management activities are law enforcement and resource protection.
Our Species
Although the refuge is only 199 acres in size, a diversity of species make their home here. Two hundred species of birds, mammals, fish, reptiles, and amphibians use the refuge.
