Animals that use both water and forest habitats to find food, nest sites, or shelter do especially well along the many miles of undeveloped mainland and island shoreline. Great blue herons, mallards, wood ducks, and hooded mergansers are common. The bald eagle, common loon, and turkey vulture are also frequently spotted. Large numbers of waterfowl use the flowage during spring and fall migration. Over 130 species of birds have been observed on the flowage or in the nearby forests.
Many mammals also find a home here.
Deer, beaver, otter, mink, and raccoon are fairly common and occasionally a black bear is reported. Most of the animals found on the flowage can be observed at close range if they are approached slowly and quietly, especially with a boat. Be particularly careful not to disturb nesting birds or animals with small young. A flowage with a future The Wisconsin DNR, USFS, and LCO are formulating a plan to guide the future of the Chippewa Flowage. The proposed Joint Management Plan focuses on protecting the unique natural character of the flowage, and maintaining the high quality of its natural resources and recreational opportunities.