Urban National Wildlife Refuge Day

Celebrated on 09/29/2026

Quick Fact

Did you know that Urban National Wildlife Refuge Day celebrates the unique role of wildlife refuges located in or near major cities? These refuges provide critical green spaces for both wildlife and people, offering urban dwellers easy access to nature without leaving the city limits.

Origins and Establishment of Urban National Wildlife Refuge Day

Urban National Wildlife Refuge Day was established by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 2023 to recognize the importance of urban refuges in connecting people with nature. The first celebration was held on October 14, 2023, with events across the country highlighting the 101 urban national wildlife refuges that serve over 60 million visitors annually.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

The day has grown from a simple awareness campaign into a nationwide event featuring guided nature walks, wildlife photography workshops, volunteer clean-up days, and educational programs in schools. In 2024, the celebration expanded to include virtual tours and social media campaigns, allowing people who cannot visit in person to learn about these vital habitats.

Facts & General Observations

• There are 101 urban national wildlife refuges in the United States, covering over 200,000 acres.
• More than 60 million people visit urban refuges each year, making them some of the most visited public lands.
• Urban refuges provide habitat for over 100 threatened or endangered species, including the California least tern and the Florida panther.

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