Wildlife watching

Public access is limited to the area around the fishing ponds and Pheasant Farm on the west side of the refuge. There is a variety of wildlife that has been seen in these areas and it can be very scenic. Occasionally tours are offered through the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge.

Pheasant Farm is a a public hunting area and is accessed through the Mallard Club State Wildlife Area, wearing orange is recommended if visiting during hunting seasons. 

There are gravel dike tops and a parking lot at the fishing access but there are no maintained trails.

Spring migration brings a lot of songbirds to the area around the fishing access. The large fishing pond is open to paddling and many people enjoy watching wildlife while on the water there. The refuge is home to many bald eagles and marsh birds depending on the season. Mammals include deer, muskrat, beaver, mink, coyote, fox, rabbit and many more small mammals. There are a variety of snake, turtle and frog populations. And the number of insect species can be absolutely amazing; moths, butterflies, and dragonflies can be seen most of the warmer months.