Pinckney State Recreation Area - Ecology

Ecology

Most of the forested areas in Pinckney are on land too steep or deemed otherwise unsuitable for agriculture. The stands that remain are smaller than 100 acres (40 ha) and consist of deciduous trees, like white oak, red oak, black oak and hickory. The flatter terrain that was originally used as farmland was allowed to become overgrown with native plants like goldenrod and black-eyed Susan, but invasive plants like knapweed, quack grass, timothy-grass, and white sweet clover have also taken hold. Other plants found in Pinckney, like the white lady's-slipper and rosepink, are classified as "Threatened" and are protected under Michigan law. Other species found in the park, like English sundew, are classified as "Special Concern."

Mammals found in Pinckney are typical of the region and include white-tailed deer, raccoons, and Virginia opossums. Typical avian species consist of various water birds such as blue-winged teals, snow and Canada geese, mallard and wood ducks, egrets, and great blue herons. Pinckney is also known by birders as a habitat for sandhill cranes.