Choctaw National Wildlife Refuge
Overview
Choctaw National Wildlife Refuge is located in southwest Alabama along the Tombigbee River, approximately 80 miles north of Mobile. The Refuge was established in 1964 on lands aquired by the Corp of Engineers in conjunction with the Coffeeville Lock and Dam project. The 4,218 acre refuge encompasses approximately 1,802 acres of lakes, sloughs, and creeks, 2,265 acres of bottomland hardwoods, and 151 acres of croplands and moist soil units. The primary purpose of the refuge is to provide wood duck brood habitat and serve as a protected wintering area for waterfowl. Up to 200 broods of wood ducks are produced annually in the refuge's artificial nest boxes, and wintering waterfowl numbers can exceed 10,000. In addition, numerous neotropical migrant and wading birds benefit from management activities. Following a successful bald eagle hacking program in the early 1990's the refuge has played host to a nesting pair of eagles each winter. During the summer months wood storks can be found resting and feeding in the back-water sloughs and moist soil units. Resident wildlife includes white-tailed deer, gray squirrels, turkey, raccoons, opossum, American alligator, and beaver.
Activities
Boating
A boat launch ramp is provided to visitors. It is located just past the office/maintenance area.
Auto/Motorcycle
Roads are available for a scenic drive through the refuge.
Fishing
Bordering the Tombigbee River for 6.5 miles, the refuge is very popular with anglers.
Hiking
While access is limited, hiking along the refuge roads and through the woods is allowed.
Hunting
The refuge is a popular hunting spot, with archery hunts for big game starting on the opening day of archery season and running through the month of November. Gun hunting for small game is allowed during the last part of November. Be sure to check with the refuge for regulations.
Seasonality/Weather
Access to this refuge is sometimes possible only by boat in the spring. Road access is limited, and frequent flooding and storms make it impassable, so be sure to call ahead.
Between December 1 and March 1 some areas are temporarily closed to public entry to provide sanctuary to the wintering waterfowl.
Directions
Driving
The refuge is located 10 miles northwest of Coffeeville, AL, across the Tombigbee River and north of Highway 84, in Southwest Alabama, approximately 80 miles north of Mobile.
Flying
The closest major airport is in Mobile. A variety of car rental agencies is available.
Phone Numbers
Primary
(251) 843-5238Links
Official URL
http://choctaw.fws.gov- Login or register to post comments
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