Buena Vista Marsh, wildlife refuge in Portage County, Wisconsin
Buena Vista Marsh is a large wetland in Portage County with shallow ponds, grasslands, and wooded edges. The area features walking trails and observation points that wind through the landscape where water, vegetation, and forest create different habitats.
Native Americans used this land for hunting and gathering long ago. Parts of it were later drained for farming, but restoration efforts have since returned portions to support the wetland ecosystem and wildlife.
The marsh draws bird watchers and nature lovers who use it as a place to observe wildlife in its natural setting. Local visitors view it as a quiet space for reflection and connection with the seasonal rhythms marked by migratory birds.
Visit in spring and fall when bird activity peaks and weather is most pleasant for walking. Bring water, comfortable shoes, and binoculars, and stay on marked trails to protect the habitat.
Greater Prairie-Chickens and other uncommon bird species use the grasslands for breeding and feeding. These birds require patience and the right conditions to observe but represent one of the rarer wildlife encounters in the region.
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