Wildlife viewing

Observing swans through a spotting scope Minnesota's native wildlife create magnificent "spectacles" during their yearly rituals of migration and courtship, feeding and rearing young. Watching wildlife can be exciting and provide a sense of discovery that is fun to share with your family and friends. Whether people look at, photograph or sketch wildlife or listen to the sounds of unseen creatures, wildlife tourism has become an increasingly popular hobby.

Wildlife Tourism
Minnesota's wildlands offer dozens of opportunities for wildlife viewing that can be matched to your budget, time and travel needs. Some wildlife adventures are as close as your own backyard. Others might be at a DNR Wildlife Management Area, county or state park or National Wildlife Refuge. Check out a location near you!

Conservation and Economics
In Minnesota, wildlife viewing is a $400 million per year industry as well as a wonderful hobby. It is an industry that benefits from the protection and management of natural habitats without degrading or using up our natural resources. Local communities can reap economic benefits of expanding their appeal and lengthening their tourism seasons by creating public wildlife viewing areas.