Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge

Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge is a vast protected landscape located along the Rio Grande north of Socorro.
Covering nearly 230,000 acres, it is the largest national wildlife refuge in New Mexico and one of the largest in the continental United States (forget about Alaska). The refuge protects a diverse mix of desert, grassland, shrubland, woodland, river, and wetland habitats.

Where Four Ecosystems Meet

Sevilleta is especially important because four major biomes meet within its boundaries: the Chihuahuan Desert, Colorado Plateau shrublands, Great Plains grasslands, and piñon-juniper woodlands.
The Rio Grande runs through the refuge, creating a green river corridor surrounded by these diverse landscapes. Much of Sevilleta is protected for wildlife and scientific research, but you can explore designated trails, wetlands, and other public areas near the visitor center.

Things to Do

• Visit the refuge visitor center and learn about its wildlife and ecosystems.
• Walk the Wildflower Loop or Nature Loop trails.
• Watch for pronghorn, mule deer, coyotes, raptors, and migratory birds.
• Explore the wetlands or visit San Lorenzo Canyon.

Fun Facts

• Sevilleta covers approximately 229,674 acres.
• The refuge was established in 1973.
• Four major ecological regions converge within the refuge.
• Sevilleta is home to a major long-term ecological research program operated by the University of New Mexico.