97 Binder Park Zoo 

wildlife viewing  |  directions and facility information

Photo: © Phil Seng

Zoos generally are not included in the Michigan Wildlife Viewing Guide because the focus of this book is on native, free-roaming wildlife. However, Binder Park offers more than animal exhibits. Fewer than 100 of the park’s 405 acres have been developed as a traditional zoo. The remainder consists of forests, fields, and an extensive wetland area. Trails that traverse these areas allow visitors to experience the native wildlife in natural habitats, including a rare prairie fen. Visitors can experience Wild Africa by riding the wilderness tram or walking along trails of natural forest. Discover spectacular views of wild animals from elevated boardwalks. Zoo is open April 23 through October 5.

Wildlife Viewing

In the forested areas, look for white-tailed deer, squirrels, chipmunks, and songbirds. The lucky hiker may spy Fowler’s toads from spring through fall. Look for pileated woodpeckers, barred owls, and twenty different migrating warblers, which can be seen with some effort during the same time frame. In the wetland, there is a high probability of viewing muskrats, Canada geese, mallards, great blue herons, northern water snakes, and painted turtles. The painted turtle is Michigan’s most common turtle, and may be seen basking on rocks and floating logs throughout the state.