Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is home to numerous wildlife species. The refuge was established in 1963. It comprises 140,000 acres near NASA's John F. Kennedy Space Center. The land consists of saltwater estuaries, coastal dunes, freshwater impoundments, marshes, pine flatwoods, scrub area and hardwood hammocks. More than 1,500 different species of animals and birds live in the protected environment. There are numerous recreation opportunities on the refuge. Visitors come to watch birds and other wildlife on foot or in a vehicle. There is a manatee observation deck, hunting and fishing opportunities and boating and paddling areas. Fishing permits are required to fish on the property and can be obtained free of charge from one of the information kiosks at the entrance of the refuge. It needs to be read, signed and carried on your person at all times when fishing. There is a Visitor Center located in Titusville, about four miles from the refuge that provides visitor's with information about the animals and the land, while also helping your visit. Visitors to the refuge are encouraged to help protect the land by reporting any violations they see to law enforcement. This ensures the land and animals stay safe and that the refuge can continue to be open to visitors.