Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge
Overview
Established in 1992, Keālia Pond National Wildlife Refuges is one of the few natural wetlands remaining in the Hawaiian Islands and encompasses approximately 700 acres. Located along the south-central coast of the island of Maui, between the towns of Kīhei and Mā‘alaea, it is a natural basin for a 56-square mile watershed from the West Maui Mountains.
Activities
Bird Watching
The refuge is popular for birdwatching not only for close-up glimpses of endangered ae'o and 'alae ke'oke'o, but for viewing the diversity of migratory birds that use the refuge during winter months. Shorebirds arrive in August and waterfowl begin increasing in September-October. This is an exciting time of year because infrequently seen birds show up and can become a challenge for even the seasoned birders.
Hiking
Public access to the wetlands is at the Kanuimanu Ponds, small ponds located on the north side of the main pond. Originally constructed in 1970 for catfish aquaculture, these ponds are now for the birds. Visitors can stroll along the levees to view birds or take in the quiet solitude.
Directions
Driving
Located on the south-central coast of Maui, the refuge is accessible from all directions. The entrance road to the refuge, located at milepost 6 on Mokulele Highway (Highway 311), is almost one mile north of the town of Kihei. The office, a modular trailer, is less than 0.3 mile from the entrance road's intersection with Mokulele Highway. Parking is limited. Please call in advance if there are more than 20 people.
Phone Numbers
Primary
(808) 875-1582Links
Official URL
http://www.fws.gov/kealiapond/- Login or register to post comments
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