About the Sanctuary

​

The Phyllis Haehnle Memorial Sanctuary, a Michigan Audubon sanctuary, has an area of over 1,000 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. Please CLICK HERE for a HISTORY of the Sanctuary.

​

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).  A record 8,177 cranes were counted as they landed in Mud Lake Marsh on the afternoon of November 15, 2010.  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.

​

Please CLICK HERE for lots of CRANE FACTS.

​

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. 

​

Please CLICK HERE for a TRAIL BROCHURE.

 

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, please CONTACT US to coordinate your arrival.  We can also provide a brief presentation, supply a guide at the sanctuary, or lead the group on an auto tour to get a closer view of the cranes feeding in nearby fields.

​

The Observation Site is handicap accessible.

​

PLEASE KEEP DOGS ON THEIR LEASHES AT ALL TIMES AT THE SANCTUARY.

THERE IS NO HUNTING OR FISHING ON SANCTUARY PROPERTY.