Many may not know that Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery, located in Mattawan, Michigan, is an ideal destination for viewing spring bird migrations. The hatchery, situated at 34270 County Road 652, offers the public year-round access to its 120 acres complete with seven ponds and a convenient bird watching platform.
Visitors will have a chance to see more than 175 different species of migratory and nonmigratory birds, including trumpeter swans, yellow warblers, song sparrows and others. At the Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery Visitor Center, visitors will find an on-site bird identification tool.
Rare sightings have been spotted at Wolf Lake, including glossy ibis and yellow-headed blackbird. The hatchery also is a spring nesting site for geese, trumpeter swans and various species of ducks, leaving no shortage for possible bird sightings.
In addition to great bird watching, a host of other features can be found when visiting Wolf Lake, including walking trails (open all year), educational programming courtesy of visitor center staff, hatchery tours and general wildlife viewing.
“I think people would be pleasantly surprised by the assortment of outdoor fun to be had when visiting Wolf Lake,” said Shana Ramsey, the hatchery’s interpreter. “As spring approaches, we hope bird enthusiasts will plan a visit to mark some sightings off their list.”
Fall bird migrations also are present at Wolf Lake. For more information on the hatchery, visit its official website.
/Editors’ note: An accompanying photo is available below for download. A suggested caption follows.
Visitors to Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery in Mattawan may be able to see a variety of migratory birds, including trumpeter swans./
