Pelican Island is listed as the first national wildlife refuge in the United States. Established by an executive order of President Theodore Roosevelt on March 14, 1903, it was created to protect egrets and other birds from extinction through plume hunting. The refuge consists of a 3-acre island that includes an additional 2.5 acres of surrounding water and is home to hundreds of species of animals including birds, fish, plants, and mammals. Guided and self-guided tours are available throughout the year.