Unique Natural Features

Several plant and animal species of interest have been documented within the Davis Creek Watershed.  All species shown here have been observed within the Davis Creek Watershed and are recognized by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources in their Michigan Natural Features Inventory as Endangered, Threatened or of Special Concern.

A female Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina), digging a nest.  This reptile is currently given Special Concern status in Michigan.

Rosinweed, Silphium integrifolium.  This prairie plant, once abundant in the prairies of southwest Michigan, is now listed as Threatened in Michigan.  It has been recently observed within the Davis Creek Watershed in a small prairie relict.

Cut-leaved Water Parsnip (Berula erecta).  This wetland plant has nearly been eradicated from Michigan.  It is currently listed as Threatened in this state.

Prairie False Indigo (Baptisia lactea), another prairie plant, once abounded in the vast mesic prairies of southern Michigan.  It has recently been observed along a grassy roadside in Portage Township.  This beautiful plant from the bean family is considered Threatened in Michigan.