The Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge stretches 16 miles between Point Woronzof and Potter Creek, but the best-known portion is located on the southern outskirts of Anchorage and commonly referred to as Potter Marsh. Established in 1917, its extensive tidal flats, marsh communities and alder-bog forest support some of the greatest numbers and diversity of birds in the Anchorage area.
Peak concentrations occur during the spring migration from late April through mid-May when water birds stop on their way north to breeding grounds and again in late July and August on the return trip. A diversity of birds also nest in the marsh and provide entertainment all summer long, in particular 15-20 pairs of lesser Canada geese and their large broods of goslings.
Moose and muskrats are commonly found on the refuge. Moose are sometimes seen feeding on aquatic or shrubby vegetation in Potter Marsh. A population of muskrats resides in the marsh and construct piles of vegetation used for feeding and resting call ‘pushups.’
Parking areas, an elevated boardwalk and interpretive signs along the Seward Highway provide excellent vantage points for viewing and photography.
For more information visit the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge website:
http://www.wildlife.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=refuge.anch_coastal