Nature
High Cliff State Park
A 125-acre area within the 1,187-acre park is designated as a state natural area, recognizing its excellent cliff environments, an undisturbed wet-mesic forest and more than a mile of Lake Winnebago shoreline.
The most common mammals observed here are fox and gray squirrels, raccoons, skunks, opossums, deer, woodchucks, 13-striped ground squirrels, chipmunks, mice, shrews and bats. Present, but rarely seen, are red fox, weasels and mink. High Cliff is a premier area to watch the warbler migration in the spring.
High Cliff Purple Martins
The Purple Martin (Progne subis), a Special Concern species in Wisconsin, is the largest of North American swallows with a large head and chest. The males are covered entirely with a glossy bluish-black plumage, while females have a light gray chest and belly.
The Purple Martin is generally found in open habitats and areas close to water, particularly near or in human settlements. Humans now provide nearly all nesting sites used by this species to include established structures like birdhouses or nest boxes and gourds. The colonies at High Cliff are monitored and maintained by volunteers. Funds to purchase the homes has been provided by individual and Friends of High Cliff through a C.D. Besadny Conservation Grant and other donations.
The best time to view the birds is while they are out catching flying insects in the morning and later afternoon from mid-April to early August. They have an unmistakable, chirpy sound that fill each summer day. When the birds leave the park in late August, their songs are noticeably absent.
Nature Programs
Naturalist programs are offered primarily from May through September. All naturalist programs are subject to change. Make sure to contact the park prior to attending any event. Kids are also encouraged to participate in the Wisconsin Explorer Program.
You may buy nature-related books, T-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, novelty items, etc. at the park office. Purchases support the Friends of the High Cliff State Park, which provides funding for nature programs and special projects in the park.