Target Birds: Bristle-thighed Curlew, wintering ducks/shorebirds, resident waterbirds, Red Avadavat
James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1976 and within the past few years has expanded to a total of 1,100 acres. The refuge now includes the original impoundments along with the area that borders the Kahuku Golf Course and the backside of Fumi Shrimp Ponds. Plans to eventually expand to include all of the shrimp ponds will probably come to fruition after the current owners lease expires.
Directions: To reach the refuge, continue through the town of Kahuku and after .65 miles (from Puuluana intersection) turn right onto an unmarked road right before the start of the shrimp ponds. If you see the shrimp ponds on your right you’ve gone too far. The access road is .25 miles long and ends at a closed gate. Currently tours are being offered at 0930 a.m. from the end of December until the last Saturday in February. Please check the National Wildlife Refuge’s website for up to date info on tours as they are subject to change (for example they were closed from late 2013-2014)
Birds: If you’re lucky enough to be able to visit on a tour, the impoundments are a great spot to see Bristle-thighed Curlew, Common Gallinule, Hawaiian Coot, and Black-necked Stilt. The reed beds usually hold a few Red Avadavats and there is always the possibility of unusual waterfowl or shorebird species. Uncommon to rare species that have been observed within the last few years during migration or winter include Greater White-fronted Goose, Brant, Cackling Goose, Terek Sandpiper, Sharp-tailed Sandpiper, Grey=-tailed Tattler, and Bar-tailed Godwit.
