Huleia National Wildlife Refuge

Huleia National Wildlife Refuge can be found on the southeast side of Kauai, Hawaii. It is next to the Menehune Fish Pond, which is also famous as a national historic place. The wildlife refuge is 241 acres. The acreage was purchased from Grove Farm Corporation in 1973 in order to protect the wetlands and five endangered waterbirds of Hawaii. The birds live off the Huleia River Valley as a nesting and feeding ground. The refuge is found in a flat valley with the Huleia River running through the land. It is all bordered by steep hills covered with native trees.

The land, before it was a refuge, was used for rive and taro agriculture. Currently 31 species of birds including the Stilt, Coot, Moorhen, Hawaiian Goose, and Hawaiian duck use the land and river. The other 26 birds were introduced to the refuge as a means to protect them. The refuge is not open for tours, but one can view the area from an overlook at State of Hawaii Historic Menehune Fish Pond.

Biologists and other scientific guests may request access for studies or visits, but it is a per basis acceptance by the manager of the complex and natural refuge.