The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge Complex (Refuge) consists of 5 units totaling 115,670 acres located in Aransas, Calhoun and Refugio Counties. It is primarily known for being the wintering ground for the endangered Whooping Crane which arrives in mid-October from its northern nesting grounds in Canada’s Wood Buffalo National Park. This year’s flock is expected to be over 285 and will remain at the Refuge until mid-April.

Also, the Refuge is home to 19 endangered and threatened species, 404 species f birds, 44 species of mammals, 60 species of fish and 457 species of native plants as well as large numbers of reptiles, amphibians, insects, spiders and shells. There are 7 hiking trails and a 16 mile auto tour loop for use during daylight hours.

The Friends of Aransas and Matagorda Island National Wildlife Refuges (FAMI) is dedicated to supporting and assisting the Refuge in its goal of enhancing wildlife and its habitat and encouraging compatible wildlife dependent public uses of the Refuge through educational, interpretive, scientific and other activities appropriate to the Mission of the Refuge. FAMI offers 7 membership categories and members are encouraged to participate in various volunteer projects on the Refuge. Profits from the FAMI operated nature store are used to support and fund Refuge rojects.

To get to the Refuge from Rockport, Tx go approximately 20 miles north on Highway 35 North turn right on FM 774 and go approximately 9 miles. Then turn right onto FM 2040 and go about 7 miles to the Refuge entrance.