Although the White-tailed deer is Michigan's state game mammal, this forest creature is frequently considered a pest in Detroit's suburbs. As more roads are built, the collisions between vehicles and deer are also on the rise. The white-tailed deer is a foraging animal. Its name is derived from the white tail this deer raises as a warning when it senses danger. Unlike many other mammals, this deer has adapted to the changing environment.
Found around lakes or rivers where it can take advantage of moist soil, several varieties of viburnum are native to the Detroit Area. Arrowwood Viburnum was used by the indigenous people to make the shafts of their arrows. Viburnum also produces an edible deep purple--almost black--berry enjoyed by humans and animals alike. This shrub grows to 10 feet tall and wide in partial to full sun. The leaves of this shrub are a deep green, and change to red in the autumn before falling.
The raccoon is a small mammal with distinctive black markings on its face that resemble a mask. Having adapted to city life, these forest mammals are frequently seen in Detroit. They nest in attics, chimneys or under porches. Raccoons are clever and will raid garbage cans or steal your pet's food, according to Professional Wildlife Removal.
This evergreen tree rapidly grows to 100 feet upon maturity, spreading 40 feet wide. Each needle is 3 to 5 inches long and bluish green. The white pine is Michigan's state tree, and played an important part in the lumber industry. The trunk of this tree is generally straight with smooth grayish-brown bark. Cones appear in late summer, growing up to 7 inches long. This tree grows in full sun and well-drained--but moist--soil, though it can tolerate wet areas. The white pine is used in landscaping for its attractive appearance and planted in groupings to serve as windbreaks.
