Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

Caribou calf and the migrating Porcupine Caribou Herd.

Caribou calf and the Porcupine Herd.

Malkolm walking with bull caribou (from the film Malkolm the Birder Boy).

Malkolm hiking with two bull caribou (image from the film "Malkolm the Birder Boy."

We are not going near the Arctic Refuge on our Bird Year . . . so why does it rate a section on our website? The incredible flights of migratory birds connect each of us to the Arctic Refuge. Our family has its own special connection.

The Arctic Refuge is one of the few unspoiled wilderness areas left. Birds nest here, Caribou calve here. The Gwich’in people of the Arctic still depend on the natural cycles of the land.

Oil companies want to drill in the Arctic Refuge. We believe that protecting the Refuge is the best choice. If we allow oil development here, will any of our parks or wild areas remain safe in the future?

The struggle to protect the Arctic Refuge ranges from Gwich’in villages to the US Congress. Our collective voices can protect this special place forever. Please help.

See our gallery of Arctic Refuge photos or watch a slide show.

Help us keep track of Arctic National Wildlife Refuge birds that migrate near your home.