Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail

Key West National Wildlife Refuge, established in 1908 by President Theodore Roosevelt, is a remarkable preserve and breeding ground for native birds and wildlife. Covering over 200,000 acres, with a mere 2,000 acres of land, this refuge is one of the earliest and most significant refuges in the United States, boasting a diverse range of over 250 bird species and serving as a vital nesting site for sea turtles. Located near Key West, the refuge is accessible only by boat. However, it is administered as part of the National Key Deer Refuge, headquartered on Big Pine Key, which is approximately 100 miles south of Miami. With its predominantly mangrove islands, interspersed with beaches and salt ponds, Key West National Wildlife Refuge offers a unique and captivating experience for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.Generated from the website