98 Whitehouse Nature Center 

wildlife viewing  |  directions and facility information

Photo: © Phil Seng

Four self-guided nature trails provide good wildlife viewing opportunities in woodland, wetland, old field, and prairie habitats in this 135-acre nature center. This site offers scenic vistas along the North Branch of the Kalamazoo River, a summer butterfly garden, and an arboretum that showcases Michigan trees and shrubs.

Wildlife Viewing

Whitehouse provides many excellent birding opportunities. More than 175 species of birds have been seen here. Look for great blue herons, green herons, and kingfishers in the wetlands. Migratory bird viewing is good in the spring, and waterfowl viewing is also good here, especially in spring and fall. The interpretive center has a feeding window that attracts numerous birds and small mammals. It also attracts Cooper’s and sharp-shinned hawks that may be seen trying to make a meal of the other feeder patrons. A bridge over the river gives an excellent vantage point for fish viewing in the clear water. Look for spawning beds on the gravel bottom during early summer. Be sure to see the viewing window and pick up the trail brochures available in the Interpretive Center. A half-mile boardwalk through a wetland offers interesting views of the river and its wildlife.