Louisiana may not be as popular as some other states in the US but it has surely a lot to offer. Fronting the Gulf of Mexico and bordering Texas and Arkansas, the Pelican State is blessed with a humid subtropical climate making it one of the best go-to places for nature appreciation. In fact, there are a lot of places in Louisiana where you can experience the best of nature and wildlife.
In this article, you will get to know more the difference scenic spots that will make your stay in Louisiana something to remember.
Manchac Swamp
The Manchac Swamp can be found just northwest of New Orleans, but despite its proximity to civilization, it is a wild and profoundly beautiful place.
The most authentic way to experience it is by kayak. Wild Louisiana Tours organize kayak excursions deep into the wetlands, through the lush vegetation and teeming with wildlife. You may see alligators, snakes, egrets and other inhabitants of this place on your tour – all up close and personal. Wild Louisiana Tours also organize photography workshops as well as walking tours if you prefer that over paddling.
Global Wildlife Center
Get ready for a wild and interactive adventure in the Global Wildlife Center. Located in the center of Folsom, this place is considered to be the largest reserve of wildlife that freely roams in their natural habitat. In fact, it is home to over 4000 species of endangered, exotic, and threatened animals from all parts of the world.
Covering over 900 acres, this safari park offers an interactive, kid-friendly learning experience. By visiting the Global Wildlife Center, they get to see their four-legged friends that they can only see in coloring books. Camels, Giraffes, deer, kangaroos, and other animals are ready to welcome them at any time of the year. Feeding these animals with will give more value to this experience.
Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuge
Your visit to Louisiana will never be complete without going to Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuge. It is one of the most uninterrupted swamplands of various plants and animals that have adapted to the climate of the area. This scenic reserve includes over 35,000 acres of the Pear River Basin which is just a few minutes away using a small boat.
The totality of Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuge is composed of interlacing river systems of both Pearl Basin and Bogue Chitto. Depending on the time of the year, the water level may fluctuate. In fact, during the periods when the river level is in the highest, almost 90% of the place is covered by water. As a result, seasonal lakes and bayous emerge adding beauty to this amazing place.
Red River National Wildlife Refuge
Red River National Wildlife Refuge was established in 2001 aims to provide a new home for threatened species. Covering about 50,000 acres of fertile lands along the Colfax, this nature and wildlife sanctuary offers nature lovers a unique way to experience natures. With hundreds of animals and several species of plants, this wetland has become an instant attraction.
Visitors of Red River National Wildlife Refuge get to see American alligators thrive and procreate in their natural habitat. Another interesting activity is seeing several species of birds migrate and nest in the area. In fact, Red River National Wildlife Refuge has become a serene and comfortable habitat for nesting birds during the spring season.
Mandalay National Wildlife Refuge
Located just a few miles southwest of Houma, Mandalay National Wildlife Refuge is another refuge center that was created to give care to wildlife and in return, become an attraction to wildlife enthusiasts. Covering over 4,000 acres, this stunning place is made up or water marsh making it perfect as a natural habitat for waterfowl and various species of birds.
Some of the major attractions in Mandalay National Wildlife Refuge consist of mottled ducks, gadwalls, blue and green-winged teal, and other birds that are both migrating and nesting in the area. Squirrels, red fox, coyote, and swamp rabbit are also a common scenery. As a bonus, you get to see the bald eagles flying freely over the waterways and nesting on towering cypress trees.
With several wildlife refuge areas in Louisiana, you will never run out of options if you are looking for a wild and educational adventure. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trips today and visit the astonishing wildlife of Louisiana.