Life on the Refuge is like living in a wild animal park. Every time we ventured out to work or play we were surprised by something new to see.
We enjoyed passing Prairie Dog Town daily.
Trapping Raccoons was one of our "Sporting Events". After capturing 30 raccoons, 3 opossums and a hungry neighborhood dog, it seems we ran out of time before we ran out of critters.
The Longhorn Auction in September, is a major Refuge event. It is the first of two annual auctions. There is plenty of work involved and there are jobs for all staff and volunteers handling 193 animals and operating corral gates.
Kurt worked on restoration of this historic entrance arch. A new cattle guard was installed as well as drainage improvements. It was built in the 1930's by the CCC and used until the 80's when bypassed.
Once again volunteers helped the staff with the bison auction held in October. There were 168 animals sold.
One morning we spotted this elk less than 100 yards from our campsite. Over 1000 of these beasts are said to live on the Refuge. During their fall mating season the bull elks serenaded us with their odd bugling sounds.
If you would like more information on the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge, click on our blog entry title above.
