Wildlife Viewing

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Eyes in the field

  • We encourage you to share your observations of certain wildlife - cougar, eastern Massasauga, moose, wild turkey, lynx and more, including diseased wildlife.

  • Report Wildlife Observations »

  • If you see baby animals this spring, observe from a distance and leave them in the wild. #recreateresponsibly 

Wildlife Viewing Opportunities

Elk Viewing

  • An elk standing in a field with fall trees in the background

    One of Michigan's most sought-after viewing species is the elk, and fall is the best time to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures. Learn all about Michigan's elk herd, see a map of designated elk viewing locations and more.

Elk Viewing »

Sandhill Cranes

  • A sandhill crane standing in a bright green field

    Every year in Michigan, a migration of thousands of Sandhill Cranes takes place in the southern Lower Peninsula. Head south to Jackson and Washtenaw counties where Sandhill Cranes spend the months of October and early November in Michigan marshlands.

Sandhill Crane Migration »

Birding

  • A yellow, black and white bird sits in a tree

    Michigan’s birds are some of the most beautiful and fascinating creatures to observe outdoors. Learn all about birding in Michigan including what you need to get started and great locations to visit to see a wide variety of species.

Birding »

Brood X Cicadas

  • A cicada sits on a green leaf

    Get ready for a special treat this spring - the emergence of Brood X cicadas! Some counties in southern Michigan are part of Brood X, the group of periodical cicadas due to emerge in late April to mid-May when ground temperatures get high enough.

Cicadas »

What in the Wild

  • Cards from What in the Wild set up on a stump

    Do you have what it takes to make a home for wildlife? Learn about Michigan's wildlife playing "What in the Wild" - a game consisting of 120 cards containing plant and animal species and the food, shelter and space they need to survive. Five different games included.

Get the Game »

Wildlife Panel

Keep Wildlife Wild

  • Keep Michigan's Wildlife Wild

    Each spring and summer, we are flooded with calls as people across the state run into a common dilemma – they have come across a baby animal and desperately want to help. If you happen to find a fawn or other baby animal, please leave it in the wild! Taking an animal from the wild is not only illegal, it is dangerous.