Until the bridge was completed in 1957, travel between the two peninsulas was difficult and slow (and sometimes even impossible during winter). In the 2016 and 2020 presidential elections, Republican candidate Donald Trump won all counties except Marquette County. (The peninsula includes the only counties in the United States where a plurality of residents claim Finnish ancestry. Red-Shouldered Hawks reuse the same nesting area each year. American dog tick: Active from May to November in Michigan forests and grassy areas. In 1967, when the Uniform Time Act came into effect, the Upper Peninsula went under year-round CST, with no daylight saving time. Spiders, grasshoppers, crickets, and other invertebrates are probably among the most common animals in the state. When the scope is restricted to vertebrates, however, Michigan also has a lot of rodents like mice, rats, squirrels, and chipmunks. Among larger animals, deer are probably the most common. Many centuries ago, wolves once occupied every single county in the state, but because of human persecution and habitat loss, populations may have completely disappeared from the state by the middle of the 20th century. U.P. zoo introduces Teddy Yakson, other new additions The most dangerous mammals in Michigan, or just any predators in general, are probably wolves and black bears. They are venomous and, unlike bees, do not die after one sting. Find cross-country ski, ice fishing , snowmobiling info and much more. For many years, mines in the Keweenaw Peninsula were the world's largest producers of copper (see Copper mining in Michigan). [68] Stands of hemlock and hardwood in the western reaches of the forest experienced larger scale selection-cutting beginning in the mid-20th century. Its natural range is now restricted to Michigan and Indiana, but it was once much more widespread. Marie, Michigan Technological University in Houghton, and Northern Michigan University in Marquette), one private university (Finlandia University located in Hancock, Michigan, on the Keweenaw Peninsula), and five community colleges (Bay Mills Community College in Brimley, Bay de Noc Community College in Escanaba and Iron Mountain, Gogebic Community College in Ironwood, and Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College in Baraga). Most of the time you wont even know that you have bitten. Houghton is where professional ice hockey was first started in 1904.[87][88]. Mitchells Satyr This small butterfly is characterized by brown wings with rows of round black and yellow eyespots on the underside. In alphabetical order, the counties are: Alcona, Alger, Allegan, Alpena, Antrim, Arenac, Baraga, Barry, Bay, Benzie, Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Chippewa, Clare, Clinton, Crawford, Delta, Dickinson, Eaton, Emmet, Genesee, Gladwin, Gogebic, Grand Traverse, Gratiot, Hillsdale, Houghton, Huron, Ingham, Ionia, The spiders like dark, dry spaces like garages, hollow stumps, and dense vegetation. Other reasons why animals may be going extinct or becoming endangered in Michigan include climate change, pollution, the introduction of invasive species, disease outbreaks, and hybridization with other related species. Deer ticks are about the size of a sesame seed and nearly impossible to spot prior to attaching to a host. The states unique geographical arrangement is shared by no other state or political subdivision anywhere in the world. Ticks in Michigan: Everything you need to know Porcupine surviving However, they can also be found near rocky outcroppings and open fields where there is plenty of covers for them to hide in or around. From the black carpet beetle, the margined blister beetle, and the big-headed ground beetle, its common to see unique-looking beetles in Michigan! [21][22] Researchers at Central Michigan University and the Michigan Wildlife Conservancy in 2006 published the findings of a study using DNA analysis of fecal samples taken in the Upper and Lower peninsulas that showed the presence of cougars at the time. 1. These massive creatures stand over 6 feet tall and can weigh as much as 1,800 pounds! Other sizable ethnic communities in the Upper Peninsula include French-Canadian, German, Cornish, Italian, and Ojibwe ancestry. Regardless of where you live in Michigan, youre sure to find an array of vibrant wildflowers blooming throughout spring and summer. Wolverines were once commonly seen across Michigan, but by the early 1800s, their numbers had decreased significantly due to hunting and habitat loss. Michigan is home to a wide variety of wildlife, some that is harmless and some that can be dangerous. Many types of snakes are attracted to water sources like ponds and streams. Mont Ripley, just outside Houghton, is popular among students of Michigan Technological University (the university actually owns the mountain). 01 of 04 Woolly Mammoth Flying Puffin/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 3.0 [31] The Keweenaw Peninsula averages more snowfall than any other location east of the Mississippi River. State park, historic sites and visitor center events. WebThe northern Lower Peninsula was dominated by sugar maple, beech, Eastern hemlock and white pine forests, and also had plant communities that depended on fire, including jack pine and oak-pine barrens. I am a freelance writer with 22 years of experience. The rest of the state is surrounded by four out of the five Great Lakes: Superior, Michigan, Huron, and Erie. Among larger animals, deer are probably the most common. NEW! Fatalities are rare but are most common in children and the elderly. The Upper Peninsula has a distinctive local cuisine. There is a large variety of birds, including hawks, osprey, owls, gulls, hummingbirds, chickadees, robins (the state bird), woodpeckers, warblers, and bald eagles. [citation needed] In the 2012 presidential election, Republican candidate Mitt Romney carried all but two counties. Hines Emerald Dragonfly Native to the Midwest, this species is characterized a luminous dark green hue and two yellow stripes on the sides. The region's exploitable timber resources and the discovery of iron and copper deposits in the 19th century brought immigrants, especially French Canadian, Finnish, Swedish, Cornish, and Italian. There are a lot of beetles in Michigan. Grand Rapids hosts one of North Americas largest concentrations of breeding mute swans at Millennium Park near Reeds Lake. The Polyphemus moth doesnt and can't eat, except when it's a caterpillar! According to the 2010 census, 103,211 people live in the 12 towns of at least 4,000 people, covering 96.5 square miles (250km2). Meet the Largest Bear Ever Caught in Michigan - MSN [84] Finlandia University, America's only college with Finnish roots, is located in Hancock. Two ferry companies run passenger ferries from St. Ignace to Mackinac Island. Lizards and Salamanders - Michigan Please view our directory listingfor general contact information. It projects into Lake Superior and was the site of the first copper boom in the United States, part of a larger region of the peninsula called the Copper Country. [citation needed] As of 2020[update], Marquette County is home to one remaining iron ore mine and one nickel and copper mine. Jack Bergman, a Republican, has been the U.S. representative for this district since January 2017. Death due to Black Bear attacks only account for one death per year annually. Adult males can reach heights between 3 4 feet tall at the shoulder and weigh up to 250 pounds when fully grown. Coastal communities have temperatures tempered by the Great Lakes. Bohemia. Marquette County sits along the Marquette Iron Range, which sent out a significant portion of the iron ore mined in the United States for many years. Its estimated that 1.5 to 2 million deer live in the state, making it one of the most popular animals to hunt. Snakes also like open grassy fields where they can bask in the sunshine during the day. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment (DNRE)[b] formed a four-person team to investigate sightings in the state. It can grow up to almost two feet in length once it is fully matured. The bear population fell to a low of about 1,300 in 2011 due to overhunting [20] As late as January 2007, the DNRE's official position was that no cougars lived in Michigan. Located in the Great Lakes region of the upper Midwest, Michigan is a temperate state containing numerous lakes, expansive grasslands, waterfalls, and immense forests. Pasty varieties include chicken, venison, pork, hamburger, and pizza, all of which many restaurants serve. The state flag of Michigan is one of history, honor, and unique symbolism. brown recluse spider. Michigan is the northern and more elevated of the two major landmasses that make up the U.S. state of Michigan; it is separated from the Lower Peninsula by the Straits of Mackinac. Because of the skiing, camping, boating, fishing, snowmobiling, hunting, and hiking opportunities, many Lower Peninsula and Wisconsin families spend their vacations in the UP, and tourists visit from Detroit, Chicago, Grand Rapids, Milwaukee, and other metropolitan areas. The United States Forest Service and Federal Highway Administration have designated certain roads within the several National Forests in the UP as Federal Forest Highways. The Finnish sauna and the concept of sisu have been adopted widely by residents of the Upper Peninsula. [86] Other ski areas are Pine Mountain located in Iron Mountain, Norway Mountain in the town of the same name, and the Porcupine Mountains located in Ontonagon. [34], The banana belt along the Wisconsin border has a more continental climate since most of its weather does not arrive from the lakes. Other common animals include snakes, cockroaches, turtles, frogs, butterflies, crickets and grasshoppers, and all kinds of freshwater fish such as bass and trout. Marie. Proposals have been made to establish the UP as a separate state, but have failed to gain traction. Check out this article for black bear populations around the country. The Great Lakes have a great effect on the larger part of the peninsula. There are 15 counties in the Upper Peninsula. If you do come across one, back away slowly without making any sudden movements this will give both parties time to get out safely! The Eastern Upper Peninsula Transportation Authority operates car ferries in its area. It is currently being threatened by the loss or contamination of its wetland habitats. It is habitat for frogs, salamanders, owls, raccoons, and many However, the four counties bordering Wisconsin are in the Central Time zone. Michigan Black bears can be identified by their black fur. Although the Upper Peninsula nominally became United States territory with the 1783 Treaty of Paris, the British did not give up control until 1797 under terms of the Jay Treaty. Red-shouldered Hawk Red-shouldered hawks are typically seen soaring in wooded areas throughout the state. In terms of sports fandom, residents may support Detroit professional teams or those of Wisconsinparticularly the Green Bay Packers. Mammals - Michigan The last copper mine closed in 1995, although the majority of mines had closed decades before. They are especially dangerous and can be lethal to those who have an allergic reaction to their stings. When I go for my daily runs I often see herds of elk, deer, and bald eagles. Bats sleeping in a cluster, hanging upside down from a rocky surface. It can attach to a mammal without notice spreading disease and wreaking havoc on its unsuspecting host. Invasive species like the alewife and sea lamprey can be found in the Great Lakes. WebMichigan is represented by several different state animals. DNR forest resources professionals maintain healthy forests, manage wildfire, maintain responsible harvesting certifications and improve wildlife habitat. [91] (People living in the Lower Peninsula are commonly called "trolls" by Upper Peninsula residents, as they live "Under the Bridge".) Of the greatest concern is Lyme disease as it can affect joints and the central nervous system if left untreated. The Upper Peninsula's mines produced more mineral wealth than the California Gold Rush, especially after shipping was improved by the opening of the Soo Locks in 1855, and docks in Marquette in 1859. Many restaurants serve potato sausage and cudighi, a spicy Italian meat. At the time, Michigan was considered the losing party in the compromise. [32] Because of the howling storms across Lake Superior, which cause dramatic amounts of precipitation, it has been said that the lake-effect snow makes the Keweenaw Peninsula the snowiest place east of the Rockies. The other known populations are located in Ontario, Canada. Public Meetings; A considerable amount of bedrock is visible. In Michigan, the Southern Lower Peninsulas bobcat shooting season runs from January 1 to January 11. These include ferries for Sugar Island, Neebish Island, and Drummond Island. Early settlers included multiple waves of people from Nordic countries, and people of Finnish ancestry make up 16% of the peninsula's population; the UP is home to the highest concentration of Finns outside Europe and the only counties of the United States where a plurality of residents claim Finnish ancestry. Its lowest elevation is along the shoreline of Lake Huron and Lake Michigan, averaging 577 feet (176m) above sea level. Lone star tick: Sometimes present in wooded and grassy areas across Michigan. Michigan is also well-known for its waterfowl populations. [59], The Upper Peninsula remains a predominantly rural region. Box 30028, Lansing, MI 48909 (517-284-9453). Michigan The most common type of snake found in Michigan is the garter snake, which prefers moist environments near bodies of water or damp areas under logs or rocks. Some of the rarest creatures you might be lucky enough to encounter include the river otter, red-shouldered hawk, and northern bog lemming. The yak is joining the family-owned zoos growing population of exotic animals, including sloths, frogs, reindeer, kookburra and more. Moving southward on the Lower Peninsula, people visit Saugatuck Dunes Natural Area for sightings of black bears, river otters, and sandhill cranes. Eastern hognose snakes are venomous, but only to frogs and toads. Their bite is highly poisonous and can cause serious injury or even death if not treated immediately with antivenom. Michigan DNR: 10 confirmed cougar sightings in 2021 Michigan is home to many species of animals, some of which are endangered or threatened. Kirtland warbler in Michigan. These rattlesnakes have heart-shaped heads, vertical pupils, and thick bodies. Lake Superior has the greatest effect on the area, especially the northern and western parts. Deer, rodents, bats, foxes, moles, opossums, raccoons, and skunks rank as some of the most common mammals in the state. The bear population fell to a low of about 1,300 in 2011 due to overhunting and accidental deaths. As a result, Michigan has more freshwater coastal dunes than any state in the entire country. There are many places in Michigan where you can see wildlife. Michigan is home to a variety of animals, and some can pose a threat to humans. Although the state government was not yet recognized by the United States Congress, the territorial government effectively ceased to exist. All counties in the UP are part of Michigan's 1st congressional district. These include trilliums, violets, columbines, daisies, and more, each with its own beauty that adds color and life to our wonderful state! USE THE BUTTON ABOVE TO VISIT THE WINTER FUN HOMEPAGE or go directly to you area of interest below: Find facility info, overnight info, an event calendar and much more. Thank you for visiting! Click the box above to see all species, WebOf this total, around 10,000 live in the Upper Peninsula, while 2,000 live in the Lower Peninsula. By 1992, the population was only about 20, which made it one of the rarest mammals in the state, but numbers increased rapidly over the next several years. If you are stung, it is important to not swat or squash the wasps as it will further irritate the wasps. Both species tend to prefer dry habitats away from standing water sources, such as woodlands and prairies. While its no longer an endangered species, there is currently a dispute of whether the wolves should still be protected by the federal government. Use the button above to visit the hunting home page, or go directly to your area of interest below: Find ORV license and permit info, maps, rules and regulations and more. The American Bird Conservancy and the National Audubon Society have designated several locations as internationally Important Bird Areas.[15]. Karner Blue Butterfly Identified by its purple-bluish wings and strange yellow spots, Karner blue is native to the Great Lakes states and the larger Midwest. Spiders, grasshoppers, crickets, and other invertebrates are probably among the most common animals in the state. The official flag features three iconic animals; a bald eagle at its center, representing freedom and strength, flanked by an elk on one side, signifying courage and speed, while on the other side, there is a moose representing agility with dignity. Click the box above for tips and tricks to fill your basket. The land in the Upper Peninsula was described in a federal report as a "sterile region on the shores of Lake Superior destined by soil and climate to remain forever a wilderness. Michigan tienne Brl of France was probably the first European to visit the peninsula, crossing the St. Marys River around 1620 in search of a route to the Far East. Following the end of the French and Indian War (part of the Seven Years' War) in 1763, the territory was ceded to Great Britain. Heres some basic information and the real scoop on large predators in Michigan. U.P. zoo introduces Teddy Yakson, other new additions The six westernmost counties experienced the largest decrease, from a 1920 population of 153,674 to a 2020 population of 79,392. [36] In 1973, the majority of the peninsula switched to Eastern Time;[37] only the four western border counties of Gogebic, Iron, Dickinson, and Menominee continue to observe Central Time. Kirtlands Warbler In order to thrive, this small yellow-bellied songbird needs a large region of dense young jack pine forests to breed in. They are grey or light brown with large chocolate-brown splotches. The opening of the Mackinac Bridge in 1957 (see below) has made the Upper Peninsula easily accessible to tourists from the Lower Peninsula and southeast of Michigan, and has helped make the UP a year-round tourist destination. Paper Wasp stings can be painful and cause redness and swelling. Beginner's Guide to Hunting Hartwig Pines State Park, located along the east branch of the Au Sable River in Crawford County of the northeastern Lower Peninsula, covers nearly 10,000 acres of forests, including a remnant of old-growth white pine and red pine forest dating back centuries. The Upper Peninsula of Michigan has three state universities (Lake Superior State University in Sault Ste. The majority of grey wolves in Michigan live in the Upper Peninsula. The lower half of the state contains most of the major cities, including Detroit, Lansing, Ann Arbor, and Grand Rapids. During courtship, males put on exciting displays by fluffing their plumage, spreading their tails, and letting out a whining call. In January 1837, the U.S. Congress admitted Michigan as a state of the Union. [1]) With the exhaustion of readily available minerals, the area's economy declined in the 20th century, largely becoming dependent on logging and tourism. Since logging of white pine began in the 1880s, timber has been an important industry. It is not contagious from person to person or between people and animals. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes are considered more venomous than most other venomous snakes. The name Massasauga comes from the Chippewa language, meaning Great River Mouth. Indiana Bat Native to southern Michigan, the Indiana bat is a medium-sized mouse-eared species. Like ticks, mosquitoes themselves are more of an annoyance than a danger. Many ghost towns exist in the region.[64]. [89][90] Residents are known as Yoopers (from "UP-ers"), and many consider themselves Yoopers before they consider themselves Michiganders. Please update to a modern browser such as Chrome, Firefox or Edge to experience all features Michigan.gov has to offer. The Upper Peninsula was dominated by forest, with maple, beech and birch in the uplands, and cedar, spruce, and tamarack in wetter areas. Five Michigan Upper Peninsula counties include nearby major islands: Mackinac Island, Round Island and Bois Blanc Island in Lake Huron are in Mackinac County; Sugar Island and Neebish Island in the St. Marys River, and Drummond Island in Lake Huron are in Chippewa County; Grand Island is in Alger County; Summer Island is Delta County; and Isle Royale is part of Keweenaw County.The peninsula is divided between the flat, swampy areas in the east, part of the Great Lakes Plain, and the steeper, more rugged western half, called the Superior Upland, part of the Canadian Shield. Sault Ste Marie is the oldest European settlement in Michigan and the site of Native American settlements for centuries. From venomous spiders to 2-foot long rattlesnakes, a few species living in Michigan can be downright terrifying. Beech bark disease and beech leaf disease both target species of beech trees. It has been illegal to own a cougar or large exotic cats such as African lions, leopards, and jaguars, in Michigan since 2000. While the snake wont attack you unless provoked, their bites can be very dangerous. Its estimated that populations declined by around 50% over a decade-long period throughout their entire range.
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