Female Blue Dasher in obelisk position

It’s beginning to feel like the dog days of summer here at Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, but that shouldn’t stop you from coming out for a visit!  Now is a great time of year to see American alligators, butterflies, dragonflies, and lots of adorable white-tail fawns covered in spots.  You might even see a dragonfly in the “obelisk position,” a cooling strategy they use to reduce the area of their body that is exposed to the sun.  Come take a drive on our auto tour or walk up the observation tower to see what’s happening out on San Antonio Bay.  The breeze up there is quite nice!

The refuge is open daily from 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset.  Make sure to bring water, snacks, and bug spray – and your binoculars and camera, too!  The visitor center is open Thursday through Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  Please stop at the Visitor Center to register – if the center isn’t open, you can register outside.  Fees are $3 per individual (children 18 or younger are free) or $5 per vehicle.  If you have a current Federal Duck Stamp, Aransas annual pass, or any of the America the Beautiful passes (senior, access, annual, military, volunteer), entry is also free.

Laura A. Bonneau
Visitor Services Manager
Aransas National Wildlife Refuge

white tail deer fawn