Isle Royale National Park has preserved over 132,000 acres of land since 1976. Within the national park, there are over 450 smaller islands. Because of the secluded nature of the islands and being surrounded by the world’s largest freshwater lake. The unique ecosystem is home to only 19 mammal species such as gulls, ravens, squirrels, toads, mice, spiders and eagles.
Wildlife & Nature FAQs
When do the bugs come out? Die down?
The bugs usually come out when the island starts to warm up and when the rain starts to recede. So, if you are planning to come earlier in the season, you will often face less bugs than if you were to come in July or August. By September, the bugs have usually decimated. No matter what part of the season it is, the bugs will get worse the further inland you go within the island. If you are staying close to the lodge, the bugs usually do not get that bad, because the lodge is on the water and the lake breeze sweeps them away. If you are at all concerned about the bugs (and by bugs, I mean mosquitos, black flies, horse flies) we would recommend bringing any bug protection that you think you might need (bug spray, bug repellant wrist bands, mesh head and body gear). FUN FACT! Isle Royale is home to many kinds of crawly creatures; however, Isle Royale does not have ticks, or any other poisonous bugs, or even poisonous plants!
When do moose come out?
There is no time when moose come out. Some people spend weeks on Isle Royale and do not see a moose, and sometimes people come out for the day and they see one.
Are moose dangerous?
Moose are wild animals that roam around in their home of abundant wilderness, that we merely get to visit. Like any wild animal, you must keep your distance, avoid getting in the middle of a cow moose with its calf, and do not aggravate the animal. If you follow these rules, you should be fine.
