Recreation
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The main wildlife-dependent activities at Keālia Pond NWR are wildlife observation, photography, and environmental education and interpretation. The refuge is a popular place for birdwatching, particularly when migratory birds are present from August to April. |
Maui artists are strategically positioned around the refuge office to paint wildlife and wetland scenery
without impacting waterbirds. Photo credit USFWS.
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Recreational activities such as bicycling, ball throwing, frisbees, jogging, and skateboarding are not wildlife-dependent and result in altering birds behavior from feeding or resting to avoidance. Even an activity as seemingly "quiet” as flying a kite is a disturbance as birds perceive the shape and motion as an avian predator and consume valuable energy in avoidance (fly away) or chase away if they are protecting nests and/or chicks. Pets are not allowed on the refuge for these same reasons. Nonwildlife dependent activities can be performed in the numerous county parks located along South Kihei Road in Kihei. Disturbing or removing plants, animals, rocks, fossils, or artifacts is prohibited.
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The refuge is popular for birdwatching not only for close-up glimpses of endangered ae‘o and ‘alae ke‘oke‘o, but for viewing the diversity of migratory birds that use the refuge during winter months. Shorebirds arrive in August and waterfowl begin increasing in September-October. This is an exciting time of year because infrequently seen birds show up and can become a challenge for even the seasoned birders. |
| Bird watchers at Kealia Pond NWR - Photo credit USFWS |
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Public access to the wetlands is at the Kanuimanu Ponds, small ponds located on the north side of the main pond. Originally constructed in 1970 for catfish aquaculture, these ponds are now for the birds. Visitors can stroll along the levees to view birds or take in the quiet solitude. |
| Kanuimanu Ponds - Photo credit USFWS |
