Richard Bong State Recreation Area is lucky to have a mix of habitats in its 4,515 acres including grasslands, wetlands, oak woodlands, and savanna.
One of the goals is to proactively protect, maintain, and restore these historical habitats to pre-settlement conditions. Early surveyor notes and texts provide direction; therefore, visitors can step into the ecological history of Wisconsin in this park.
This mix of habitats provides a home for many animal and plant species. By visiting each habitat, you can experience the diversity of the Midwest.
Each season highlights a change of plants and animals. Visit often to experience these exciting changes.
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Spring
As daylight lengthens, plants start to grow, and animals become active. The park awakes. Cranes and Red-winged blackbirds arrive in late February followed by a parade of migrating wood duck, shoveler, pintail, gadwall, and other waterfowl.
Look for wildlife and spring flowers in the following areas:
Beavers
East end of Wolf Lake. Their felled trees and log lodges are conspicuous.
Frogs
In every pond.
Hibernating animals
All stirring from hibernation.
Migrant Birds
Look throughout the park.
Warblers
Rhodes Road, Vista and Sunrise Group Campsites.
Wildflowers
From early April through May the Blue Trail’s blooms are spectacular. Hepatica, Mayapples, Prairie Trillium, and Virginia Waterleaf are but a few of the early flowers.
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Summer
The prairie flourishes in the summer heat. Prairie grasses and flowers provide habitat for bobolink, upland sandpiper, eastern meadowlark and sandhill crane. The Green Trail provides the best view of the prairie splendor. Also look for:
Frogs
Urban Fishing Pond
Grassland Birds
Grassland Nesting Refuge
Rabbits
Campgrounds
Turtles and snakes
Parking Lot G
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Autumn
The last prairie flowers bloom and autumn color changes the look of the park. The northern birds arrive, and the summer residents head south. Mammals are especially active as they prepare for winter, making them easier to see. Look for:
Cranes/Egrets
Refuge
Deer
Vista Picnic Area
Ducks
Refuge and lake
Squirrels and Chipmunks
Rhodes Road
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Winter
The park has special winter residents. Hike any trail after a snow to find and follow animal tracks, remembering to stay off the ski tracks. Look for:
Deer
Rhodes Road
Northern Harriers
Found in Special Use Zone
Rough-legged Hawks
Found in Special Use Zone
Short-eared or Snowy owls-shrikes
Found in Special Use Zone
