Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge, Roswell, New Mexico, USA
Established in 1937 to provide wintering habitat for migratory birds, the 24,563-acre refuge plays a crucial role in the conservation of wetlands in the southwestern desert.
Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge: 4200 E Pine Lodge Rd, Roswell, New Mexico
Located where the Chihuahuan Desert meets the Southern Plains in southeast New Mexico, Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge is one of the most biologically significant wetland areas of the Pecos River watershed system. Established in 1937 to provide wintering habitat for migratory birds, the 24,563-acre refuge plays a crucial role in the conservation of wetlands in the southwestern desert. The unusually diverse wetlands combined with its gypsum karst topography support a variety of plant and animal communities that thrive on the refuge.
A spanning view from the visitor center. No birds are shown because this is the summer season. The birds will be here during the fall season.
Another spanning view from a little farther away from the visitor center.
Yet, another spanning view
More spanning view
Spanning view from an elevated position. The waters are from the Roswell artesian aquifer.
More spanning view
Spanning view of the lake
Oxbow Trail is a 2.3-mile loop trail through the marshes. Unfortunately, there were no birds because it was not the season.
At the end of the trail is Recos River, which has muddy color.
Walking back to the car.
On the car, exiting the wildlife refuge.
