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Waterfowl hunting at sunset
Accepting Public Comments on Proposed Hunting and Fishing Program Changes

The FWS is seeking public review and comment on the proposed opening or expansion of hunting and/or fishing. The public is invited to review the draft documents, including the draft plan(s), compatibility determination(s) as appropriate, and NEPA compliance documentation. The draft documents are available through the Federal Register docket number: FWS–HQ–NWRS–2026–1223. 

The comment period on the proposed hunting and sport fishing regulations across Service-managed lands and waters will stay open for 30-days from May 27 through June 26, 2026. Please submit your comments directly through the Federal Register. 

Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1936 for the main purpose of providing sanctuary for the millions of birds that migrate along the Illinois River. Today, Chautauqua refuge provides sanctuary and breeding ground for migratory birds, fish and other wildlife. The refuge has been designated as a Important Bird Area, accepted into the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network and designated as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. The refuge is part of the traditional homeland of the Illinois people, past and present.
A bright blue bird with black feathers on it's wings calling from a small twig
Register for the Spring Bird Call Hike and Meditation April 19th

Come join the refuge staff on a short hike in the mockernut hickory forest trail of Chautauqua on April 19th,10am. The trail follows the lake's shoreline where migratory birds have private hang-outs. After a short hike and discussion on how to identify birds through their calls, we will sit quietly to meditate and wait for bird songs and calls! Contact the refuge by email or phone at [email protected] or (309) 535-2290 to sign up! We will start at the Rountree South Parking Lot. 

Visit Us

pink hued snow covers a board walk lead to platform at the edge of a frozen lake
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Dreamy sunset view from the Chautauqua refuge Nature Trail Overlook.

Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge offers a variety of recreational activities, from birding and wildlife watching to hunting and fishing. Step out onto one of our many viewing platforms to see why the refuge is a regionally and globally Important Bird Area.

Location and Contact Information

      Tours

      For a tour around the refuge, contact Elizabeth Navas (309) 535-2290 ext. 14

      Our Species

      glossy maroon with metallic wading with pink facial skin highlighted by a narrow band of white. Bird has a strongly curved bill.
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      Abundant communities of fish, wildlife and plants live and migrate through the open wetlands, backwater lakes, bottomland forests, savanna bluffs and prairies at Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge. The variety of habitats benefit wildlife and sighting are plentiful no matter the time of year.