Where: Near Socorro, in south-central New Mexico, about 100 miles south of Albuquerque.

Habitat: The 57,191-acre refuge sits on a riparian floodplain of the Rio Grande in the Chihuahuan Desert. The staff channels river water into wetlands and croplands for waterfowl.

Wildlife: In late fall and winter the refuge attracts 15,000 sandhill cranes and 20,000 snow geese, plus mallards, pintails, shovelers, and other birds. Hikers on the splendid trails are advised to watch for another inhabitant-rattlesnakes.

Activities: Birdwatching, hiking, environmental workshops, Festival of the Cranes (November).

Contact: 505-835-1828;
http://southwest.fws.gov/
refuges/ newmex/bosque.html