Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do if I've found an injured animal?
Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge does not employ licensed wildlife rehabilitators, and is unable to respond to most calls for sick or injured wildlife. In cases that involve rare or threatened species in distress on the refuge, biologists may be able to assist. However, we can never respond to calls for sick or injured wildlife located off the refuge property, nor can we accept sick or injured wildlife at our headquarters or visitor center.
If you discover sick or injured wildlife, please contact a rehabilitator immediately for advice on safe handling, both for your sake and for the animal. Some animals require special handling, while others may have diseases that can be transferred to people. Extra precautions should be taken around bats, raccoons or skunks as these species have a higher risk of carrying rabies, which can be transmitted to humans and pets. Follow guidance and find a wildlife rehabilitator through New York State DEC.Spotting an animal that appears sick or injured can be an upsetting experience. However, in most cases, wildlife should be left alone. Animals are often removed unnecessarily from the wild by well-meaning bystanders. This subjects them to increased stress, can create an overreliance on humans for food or shelter, and may decrease their likelihood of survival. In most cases, intervention is only justified if the animal shows clear signs of injury and/or you find young wildlife with a dead parent nearby.
What is a National Wildlife Refuge?
Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge is one of more than 570 units within the wildlife refuge system. National wildlife refuges are federally managed conservation areas that protect native species dependent on particular habitats found at that location. This means that visiting a can feel different than a park or other outdoor recreation site. At a refuge, wildlife come first. Therefore, certain activities and areas are restricted to ensure that wildlife have the best possible chance not just to survive, but to thrive. Refuge employees use science-based research to manage refuge lands and ensure a balanced conservation approach that enables wildlife and people to enjoy these very special places.
Where are the birds?
Refuge staff do not monitor every species at every hour of the day. E-bird is a great tool that shows you what visitors have logged and seen on their visit to the refuge! Check out our page for daily updates HERE.
Do I have to pay to visit the refuge?
There is no fee to enter the wildlife refuge, visitor center, or attend any of our programs or events.
How do I get an America the Beautiful Parks Pass and/or a Federal Duck Stamp?
We are only able to issue the following America the Beautiful passes: Annual Military, Lifetime Veterans, Access Pass, and 4th Grader Pass. Federal Duck Stamps are also available for $25, cash only. Please call ahead and make an appointment to ensure there will be someone there who can issue a pass or duck stamp. Many passes can be purchased online through USGS.
What if I want to hunt, fish, and forage?
Hunting and fishing are excellent ways to recreate at the refuge, provided you have the proper permits. Head to our Hunting and Fishing pages for more information. Fishing licenses cannot be purchased at the refuge.
Removal of natural items - including plants, animals (except permitted hunting), rocks, wood, and bones - is prohibited. Thank you for helping us keep the wildlife refuge wild.
When are the best times to visit the refuge?
Depends on what you want to do! Most people will say Spring and Fall due to migration and the variety of species you can see both seasons. Spring migration brings the flocks of song birds and warblers through the refuge from late April through early May. Fall migration brings vibrant foliage, migrating shorebirds and ducks, and opportunities for waterfowl and deer hunting (permits required).
Can I bring my dog to the refuge?
Yes, we love our furry friends! We just ask they remain leashed the entire time and the leash can’t be any longer than 10 feet. Note: the visitor center does not allow dogs unless they are service animals, see below.
What about service animals?
Service animals are allowed on refuge and in the visitor center, but must be on leash at all times. The definition of a service animal is any animal that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability. The crime deterrence effects of an animal's presence and the provision of emotional support, well-being, comfort, or companionship do not constitute work or tasks for the purposes of this definition. Emotional support, therapy, or comfort animals do not qualify or meet the definition of a service animal under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
I love it here! How can I volunteer or get a job at the refuge?
We love it here too! You can learn more about volunteer and employment opportunities by visiting the Get Involved page or get in contact with logan_sauer@fws.gov
