Wildlife conservation in Natchitoches, Louisiana

Natchitoches National Fish Hatchery, located at 615 South Drive in Natchitoches, Louisiana, is a unique institution that offers a free, self-guided aquarium exhibit for visitors to enjoy. In addition to the aquarium, the hatchery boasts 53 outdoor ponds where visitors can observe a variety of fish species. While there is no designated walking trail, visitors are welcome to walk on the levees for birdwatching, wildlife viewing, exercise, or simply to enjoy the outdoors. The hatchery is an eBird hotspot with 114 individual species noted, making it a great destination for birdwatchers. The aquarium is open daily from 8-3, while the hatchery itself is open from 8-3 Monday through Thursday. As one of only 69 Federal fish hatcheries in the United States, Natchitoches National Fish Hatchery is dedicated to species recovery and restoration efforts for various fish species, including Louisiana Pearshell mussels, Alligator snapping turtles, Gulf Striped Bass, Alligator Gar, and Paddlefish.