Flora and Fauna

The Dow Wetlands (including the Memorial Forest) is a Carolinian habitat playing host to a wide variety of plants and animals. Fifteen varieties of native trees and shrubs, including silver maple, black cherry, and trembling aspen trees, provide cover for animals in the area. Among the species supported by this ecosystem are the red-winged black bird, snapping turtle, Canada goose and garter snake. A snake hibiculareum provides habitat for the snakes, while birdhouses provide living space for small birds. Waterfowl like mallard ducks take cover under the bulrushes surrounding each pond. A red fox sometimes appears, looking for something to eat.

As The Dow Wetlands continues to mature, the variety and abundance of species promises to increase. Larger mammals will begin to populate the area as The Dow Memorial Forest matures and provides better cover for these species.