Extensive diking of these sedge marshes has resulted in the creation of 6,000 acres of deep-water marsh. Upland vegetation includes 7,000 acres of restored brush-prairie and 6,000 acres of oak, jack pine, and aspen forests. These different habitat types are interspersed over the flat to gently rolling terrain. Wildlife Recreational Opportunities Wildlife Watching Crex is one of 76 sites included in the Wisconsin Wildlife Viewing Guide and is marked with special signs to lead visitors here. More than 260 species of birds plus many species of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians can be seen on the property.
Spring offers largest diversity of species and fall is best for sheer abundance for wildlife.
Summer has less wildlife, but is a good time to observe wildlife with their young. The seasons and bag limits can be found in the Wisconsin hunting and trapping regulations. There are only two exceptions. Part of Crex is closed to sharp-tailed grouse hunting. A map of the area open to sharp-tail hunting is posted outside of the Visitor Center.