Mandalay National Wildlife Refuge is a protected wetland in south Louisiana, about 5 miles southwest of Houma, established in 1996 as part of the Southeast Louisiana National Wildlife Refuge Complex. Its 4,619 acres of freshwater marsh and cypress-tupelo swamp provide important habitat for waterfowl, wading birds, and neotropical songbirds, making it significant for wildlife conservation and seasonal bird use. Reached only by boat because of the soft marsh terrain, the refuge is open year-round with some seasonal closures. Wildlife observation, boating, fishing, and limited hunting are allowed under specific restrictions, with additional support from Friends of Louisiana Wildlife Refuges.