The Amazing Creatures of Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan is renowned for its abundant wildlife population. Spanning across four US states and the Canadian province of Ontario, the combined area of Lake Michigan and its surrounding areas hosts a variety of living creatures, both large and small. Wild birds, endangered and protected species, and a host of fascinating aquatic life forms all make the lake an exciting habitat to explore. In the following article, we take a closer look at the incredible creatures which call the lake their home.
Aquatic Life
From the smallest aquatic invertebrates to the largest mammal of the lake itself, the lake is full of various forms of underwater life. The lake is home to native indigenous species such as Brook Trout, Northern Pike and many other gamefish. Visitors can also spot the iconic Lake Trout, Steelhead, Coho Salmon, Walleye and Bass that inhabit the area.
The coastal waters also host several types of sharks, the most common being Sand Tigers, Dusky and Bull Sharks. Muskellunge, Lake Whitefish and the formidable Lake Sturgeon are also commonly found. The Lake Sturgeon in particular is an ancient species which dates back over a hundred million years, and can grow up to 8 feet in length.
Aquatic life extends beyond the larger species to include many different forms of plant and insect life. Algae, along with freshwater sponges, flatworms and snails, are all prevalent in the area. The wetland regions of Lake Michigan also provide a habitat for amphibians such as frogs and toads. Additionally, those who prefer to stay on the ground will find a variety of clams, mussels and crayfish among other species.
Why is Lake Michigan so Special?
Lake Michigan’s incredibly diverse wildlife population is due in part to its unique geographical position. The lake lies directly adjacent to four US states, and also includes areas of Ontario in Canada. This means that when humans are unable to migrate animals to the lake, nature does it for us – creating an incredibly diverse eco-system for aquatic life to call home.
Due to its position on the border, Lake Michigan and its surrounding areas have become a safe haven for several endangered and protected species found in the US and Canada. The lake also acts as a stopping point for birds on their long-distance migrations. In spring and autumn, the area is home to many different varieties of migratory birds, such as snow geese, sandpipers and other waterfowl.
Human Impacts on Lake Michigan
The abundance of aquatic life in Lake Michigan is in part due to the traditional practices of fishermen in the region. Many of these fishermen rely on the lake for their livelihood, and as a result have worked to maintain it for future generations. Despite these efforts, Lake Michigan is not immune to human impact.
The most noticeable impact of human activity on the lake is pollution. Pollution from agricultural runoff, industry and urban sprawl has had a range of effects on the lake and its wildlife. Runoff from agricultural land can contain high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus, which can fuel algae blooms and subsequent eutrophication, leading to reduced oxygen levels in the lake.
The introduction of invasive species is also a major problem. Species such as the Zebra and Quagga mussels, can out-compete native species and cause a shift in the composition of the lake. Additionally, many of the native species of Lake Michigan have become endangered, threatened, or even extinct due to a combination of factors such as over-fishing and pollution.
Conservation Efforts for the Lake
In spite of the impact of humans on the lake’s ecology, conservation efforts are being made on a local and international level to ensure that the lake’s wildlife population is maintained. Several international conservation organizations have joined forces with the US and Canada to develop methods to reduce pollution and invasive species in the lake. In addition, the US government has set regulations on fishing and hunting practices, in order to limit their impact on the population of wild animals in the lake.
In the local area, a variety of organizations are also working to protect the species and habitats of Lake Michigan. These include the Lake Michigan Stakeholders, a coalition of citizens, conservationists, scientists, and business owners who are dedicated to preserving the biodiversity of the lake. Their efforts include events such as beach cleanups, and educational awareness campaigns.
Conclusion
Lake Michigan is teeming with life, and the creatures that call it home have been delighting residents for centuries. From the iconic Lake Trout to the ancient Lake Sturgeon, there is a diverse array of wildlife here which makes it well worth a visit. But it is important to remember that human activity can have a negative impact on the wildlife of Lake Michigan. Conservation efforts in both the local and international areas are important in order to ensure that the lake remains a healthy and vibrant habitat for generations to come.
