Nature

Mammals

The park is home to many mammals. The most popular is the white-tailed deer. Red fox can often be seen in the dunes. Thirteen-lined ground squirrels frequent the picnic areas looking for scraps. Muskrats build domed homes in the Black River marsh. Raccoons can be nasty thieves when food is carelessly left out in the campsite. In addition, coyotes may be seen or heard on occasion.

Birds

More than 150 bird species are known to live in or migrate through Kohler-Andrae. The lakeshore of Lake Michigan acts as a migration corridor for birds during the spring and fall. Impressive numbers of diving ducks can be seen offshore. Many hawks also migrate through the park area, as do several other endangered and threatened species of birds. Many birds live and nest in the park. Types range from ducks, gulls and shorebirds to woodland warblers, vireos, sparrows and marshland rails, sandhill cranes and herons. Bring your binoculars and enjoy the colorful bird show. See the list of common birds [PDF] found in Kohler-Andrae and the seasons when viewing is best.

Plants

More than 400 known plant species are found in the park, including more than 50 different tree species. Many plants that grow in the dune areas of the park are very specialized and found only in this area. The "Kohler Dunes Natural Area" located north and south of the nature center has many unique examples of dune vegetation and protects some threatened species as well. Please be careful not to damage any vegetation in this fragile area.

Wildlife refuge

Kohler-Andrae State Park is a wildlife refuge and no animals are hunted or trapped, except during a special deer hunt. All plant life is also protected, with the exception of edible fruits and nuts. Please do not pick the flowers or other plants, leave them for others to enjoy.