Summer is the perfect time to get out and explore. There aren’t many cities in North America better for enjoying nature than Milwaukee. A lot of work has been done in recent years to provide locals with plenty of options for getting outdoors. While you spend more time in those beautiful surroundings, it’s important that you also know which animals you might discover. You’re not expected to be a wildlife expert, but you need to show some respect for the animals that call those habitats home. Being aware of your surroundings means you won’t put yourself or the animals in danger. When necessary, you’ll also know when to contact animal control experts in the Milwaukee area.

Milwaukee’s Nature at Your Doorstep

Milwaukee is full of parks, hiking trails, and nature centers. The best evidence of this is the Milwaukee County Parks system. It comprises of more than 140 parks, spanning an incredible 15,000 acres. The pick of these parks has to be Three Bridges Park, opened in 2013. This award-winning oasis is situated in the Menomonee River Valley. Once an abandoned rail yard, the site is now flourishing with wildlife. Here you’ll find fishing, hiking, cycling and more. It’s perfect for families and adventure enthusiasts alike.

The Schlitz Audubon Nature Center is another impressive addition to the city’s outdoor options. The center covers an incredible 185 acres along Lake Michigan’s shore, offering a brilliant escape from the city block. The focus here is on education. You can attend workshops, observe nature exhibits and learn about the local wildlife. If that doesn’t sound like it’s for you, there are birdwatching, trails and observation towers to keep you entertained.

Finally, you won’t want to miss the Urban Ecology Center. There are three branches throughout Milwaukee, each of them unique in their own way. They all focus on environmental education and ecology. The beautiful centers have transformed industrial land into green and sustainable attractions.

Why Be Aware of the Local Wildlife?

While you fish, hike, birdwatch and relax in the park, it’s important that you continue to show respect to the wildlife in the area. After all, you’re in their home and you don’t want to be a rude guest.

You might not see them, but it’s highly likely that local animals will see you. Unusual human interactions could upset their regular patterns and behavior. For that reason, it’s important to stay conscious of your surroundings and try to leave everything exactly as you found it.

If you know what to expect from the local animals, you’ll be better prepared when you meet them. Besides, when you know more about their habits, you’ll be able to appreciate the wildlife in your community even more.

What to Do if You Comes Across Wildlife

Chances are, you will be looking forward to seeing some wildlife on your outdoor adventure. If you follow these simple guidelines, you can rest assured that you’ll do more good than harm.

First of all, don’t feed any wildlife that you come across. Feeding any of the birds, reptiles or marine life that you find can dangerously affect their feeding habits. It’s also a good idea to keep your distance. Birdwatchers, peering through binoculars, won’t have to worry about getting too close. On the other hand, turtles and snakes shouldn’t be approached or touched.

You’ll have the best time and contribute in the most environmentally friendly way if you observe the wildlife from afar. If certain species are getting a little too close, or if you believe they’re in an area which they shouldn’t be in, contact the park authorities. They’ll know how to handle the situation. If they don’t, animal control services in Milwaukee can help as well.