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Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, located in central New Mexico, was established in 1939 as a sanctuary for migratory birds. The name "Bosque del Apache" means "Forest of the Apache," reflecting the area's historical significance to the Apache people who once lived in the region. The refuge spans over 57,000 acres along the Rio Grande, providing a critical habitat for thousands of sandhill cranes, snow geese, and other waterfowl during their winter migrations. Over the years, it has become a premier bird-watching destination, renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. The annual Festival of the Cranes, held each November, celebrates the return of the cranes and attracts nature enthusiasts from around the world, highlighting the refuge's vital role in conservation and its natural beauty.