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Phyllis Haehnle Memorial Audubon Sanctuary | |||||
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Welcome Page
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ABOUT PHYLLIS HAEHNLE MEMORIAL SANCTUARY
The Phyllis Haehnle Memorial Sanctuary, a Michigan Audubon sanctuary, has an area over 900 acres. The varied habitats include Beech and Oak Climax forests and native grasslands in the upland areas; among those in the wetland areas are a fen, a hardwood swamp, Eagle Lake and Mud Lake Marsh. The Sanctuary is renowned for its Sandhill Cranes. Many pairs of cranes nest in the area and hundreds more gather here during fall migration (September to mid-November). Over 4,000 cranes were counted as they landed in Mud Lake Marsh one afternoon in November, 2001. During fall weekends greeters welcome the many visitors who come to witness this glorious sight. This annual rite of fall can be viewed at the Harold Wing Observation Hill, which is located east of the parking lot and is handicap accessible. There is an interpretive display in this area and benches for weary birdwatchers. The winter months provide an opportunity to hike the trails and observe animals like deer, squirrels and birds that are more visible on the white snow and in leafless trees. Admission to the Phyllis Haehnle Memorial Sanctuary is free. It is open all year from dawn to dusk. For activities consistent with the purpose of the Sanctuary, special permission can be given to remain after dark. Admittance to Mud Lake Marsh is by written permission only. Hosts are at the Sanctuary most Saturdays and Sundays, during peak Crane times in the fall each year. If you have a group that needs a guide at the sanctuary or to lead the group on a Crane Tour, contact us. (See Contacts below).
Note: The observation site is handicap accessible. Contact the sanctuary director for details.
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