The Pinellas National Wildlife Refuge(NWR), was established in 1951 as a breeding ground for colonial bird species. Herons, cormorants, egrets, endangered brown pelicans and many more species use this quiet refuge for nesting. Tarpon Key, one of the islands making-up the refuge, hosts the largest brown pelican rookery in the state of Florida. The abundant green sea grass beds around the island are protected from motorized boat activity.

Pinellas Key NWR is managed as part of the Crystal River NWR Complex.

Location and Contact Information

      No Public Access

      Pinellas Key NWR is closed to public use year-round.  

      Get Involved

      Visit The Friends of the Tampa Bay National Wildlife Refuges to find ways you can get involved!