Nature on the Flyway

Just to the west of the city lies the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge, one of only a handful of urban wildlife refuges in the nation. It is a special place to discover an ever-changing panorama of wildlife. Situated within the floodplain of the Tualatin River, the refuge comprises a fraction of the 712-square mile watershed. Yet, due to its richness and diverse habitats, the refuge supports amazingly abundant and varied wildlife. Located on the Pacific Flyway, the Refuge is an important stopover where migrating waterfowl, songbirds, and shorebirds stop to rest, refuel and raise their young. Teeming with hundreds of species of birds and mammals, as well as fish, amphibians and plant life, the refuge is a natural sanctuary and a perfect place to reflect and recharge.

To minimize disturbance to wildlife, trails are for walking only and pets are not allowed. The refuge is open dawn to dusk, and features a federal interpretative center.

Tualatin Riverkeepers is the leading independent voice supporting the river, streams and wetlands in our community, devoted to protecting water, fish and wildlife.