India, Oct. 8 -- Looking out into the ocean from the beach in Oceanside, Oregon, one sees some small rocky islands just off the coast, appearing to be part of a scenic view rather than an actual sanctuary. However, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the nine rocks and islands that make up the refuge total 15 acres. The Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge is home to the largest and most diverse seabird colony in Oregon, with common murres among the species that nest there.

The refuge also plays an important role in national history. Established on October 14, 1907, it was the first national wildlife refuge west of the Mississippi River, following efforts by two young naturalists, William L. Finley and Herman Bohlman. S...