Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is located on Merritt Island on the east coast of Florida, USA, adjacent to the Kennedy Space Center. Established in 1963, it aims to protect the unique wetland ecosystem and migratory birds. Spanning over 57,000 acres of salt marshes, forests, and freshwater wetlands, it is home to more than 1,500 species of plants and animals, including endangered sea turtles, Florida panthers, and West Indian manatees. As a key stopover on the Atlantic Flyway, hundreds of thousands of waterfowl gather here every winter, creating spectacular scenes. Visitors can explore pristine nature via observation towers, hiking trails, or driving routes, and even catch glimpses of launch pads, blending science and wilderness.