It was used to enhance wildlife habitat, particularly for the northern bobwhite. The large seeds are taken infrequently by northern bobwhite and seed-eating songbirds. The northern bobwhite has also been introduced to New Zealand. Northern bobwhite are known to nest in bunches of it. Game birds on the refuge include the mourning dove, northern bobwhite, and wild turkey. Like most game birds, the northern bobwhite is shy and elusive. To a point, "M. cerifera" will also provide habitat for the northern bobwhite quail. To a point, "M. caroliniensis" will also provide habitat for the northern bobwhite quail. The northern bobwhite is threatened across its range due to habitat loss and habitat degradation. Hunting is permitted for pheasant, northern bobwhite quail, mourning dove, ducks, geese, and sandhill cranes.