Preserving natural habitat in the Nisqually River Delta, the refuge wetlands attract some 300 species of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and fish. Remnants of the dairy farm that once claimed this area can be seen in an extensive dike built to keep out saltwater and in two renovated barns used for educational groups. A series of trails follow the dike through forest and marshland to the barns and beyond. Loons, grebes, cormorants, harriers, hawks and a variety of ducks, geese and songbirds are frequently spotted. A Visitor Center explains the natural history of the area(open year-round; closed Jan 1, Thanksgiving Day, Dec 25).