Wildlife Spots at Winter-Chard: Unforgettable Encounters with Nature’s Wonders

As you step out of your Higgins Lake cabin and into the surrounding forest, you can’t help but feel a sense of wonder and excitement at the prospect of spotting the incredible wildlife that calls this beautiful place home. Our mid-century modern chalet, nestled among the trees and just a stone’s throw from the crystal-clear waters of Higgins Lake, is the perfect base from which to explore and discover the amazing array of creatures that inhabit this stunning corner of northern Michigan. From the majestic deer that roam the forest floor to the soaring eagles that ride the thermals high above, the wildlife at Winter-Chard is a true marvel, and our guests have been lucky enough to spot all manner of incredible species during their stays with us.

One of the most common sightings is that of the white-tailed deer, which can often be seen grazing in the early morning and late evening, their large brown eyes watchful and alert as they nibble on the lush vegetation that surrounds the chalet. Guests have also reported spotting wild turkeys, their iridescent feathers glimmering in the sunlight as they strut through the underbrush, and even the occasional black bear, which can be seen ambling through the forest, searching for berries and honey to feast on. And then, of course, there are the birds – oh, the birds! From the tiny hummingbirds that flit about the feeders on the chalet’s deck to the majestic osprey that dive-bomb into the lake, talons outstretched, in search of fish, the avian wildlife at Winter-Chard is a true delight, and a constant source of fascination for our guests.

But it’s not just the larger creatures that make the wildlife at Winter-Chard so special – the smaller inhabitants of the forest are just as fascinating, and can be just as much fun to spot. Guests have reported seeing all manner of insects, from the delicate butterflies that flit about the wildflowers to the busy beavers that work tirelessly to build and maintain their intricate networks of dams and lodges. And then, of course, there are the creatures of the lake itself – the fish that swim in the crystal-clear waters, the frogs and turtles that bask in the sun on the rocks and logs, and the snakes that slither silently through the underbrush, searching for their next meal. Whatever your interests, and whatever time of year you visit, the wildlife at Winter-Chard is sure to delight and inspire, and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

As the sun begins to set on another day at Winter-Chard, and the stars start to twinkle in the night sky, the wildlife of the forest and the lake takes on a whole new dimension, and the sounds of the nocturnal creatures – the hooting owls, the chirping crickets, and the distant howl of a wolf – provide a soothing background melody that will lull you into a deep and peaceful sleep, ready to do it all again the next day. So why not come and experience it all for yourself? Visit winterchard.com to learn more about our beautiful mid-century modern chalet, and to book your stay in this incredible corner of northern Michigan – we can’t wait to welcome you to Winter-Chard, and to share the magic of the wildlife that lives here with you.