Oakland County

Ethics, Wildlife and the “Perfect Photo”

Oakland County, MI Government Leave a comment
A coyote stands at attention on dune filled with weeds and wildflowers

WILDER SIDE OF OAKLAND COUNTY

It happens about once a month. I receive a question about a wildlife photo that’s included in my Wilder Side of Oakland County blog, or that I have shared on Facebook or used in a presentation. “How close were you to get the photo?” is the most common question. I try to answer as honestly as I can, even when the answer is, “I’m not real sure, I was focused on watching its behavior and just kept clicking.” I smile when the other type of question comes my way, “I hope you did not scare it away!” I interpret that as coming from someone who was raised to not disturb wildlife: a person that practices ethical photography when it comes to wildlife – even if they don’t realize it.

Buck in autumn wildflower meadow Continue reading →

Halloween Fun at Detroit Zoo’s “Zoo Boo” in Oakland County

Oakland County, MI Government Leave a comment
Families, some dressed in Halloween costumes walk down the Trick or Treat Trail at the Detroit Zoo's "Zoo Boo" An inflatable witch stand in the background next to a tree with yellow leaves.

Are you looking for a Halloween destination that’s all fun, and no fright? The Detroit Zoo’s “Zoo Boo” is the place for you. The “merry-not-scary” event is sure to bring Halloween excitement to your entire family!

Held the first three weekends in October, “Zoo Boo” offers a festive selection of fun Halloween attractions. Live entertainment acts include daring acrobatics, magic acts, live music, extreme pumpkin carving demonstrations, and more.

Guests of all ages are invited to wear their costumes and collect sweets by trick-or-treating along the pumpkin-lined “unlucky” 13-station trick-or-treat trail. Join the Detroit Zoo on their Green Journey by bringing your own trick-or-treat bag; bags will not be handed out at the event.

Check out our “Zoo Boo” video and get a preview of all the Halloween fun!

Continue reading →

Saddle Up Your Horse with Oakland County’s Equestrian Map

Oakland County, MI Government Leave a comment
A woman smiles at the camera while she snuggles up against a white horse's neck. In the background, leaves are beginning to turn fall colors.

Oakland County equestrian enthusiasts of all abilities, from beginners to professionals, can find a number of local resources to support their love of horses. Oakland County is just the place with more than 40 locations for boarding, training, lessons, equine therapy, or group outings. Several stables and ranches are located in and around the county; see the list below to learn more.

List of Equestrian Locations in Oakland County

This interactive map, created by Oakland County’s award-winning GIS team, also provides locations such as equestrian trails, feed and supply stores, saddlery locations, and veterinary care. Click on the map below to find a location near you, or discover a new equestrian destination to visit.

Equestrian Map

Looking for a trail to take a horseback ride? Check out an equestrian trail at one of the horse-friendly Oakland County Parks locations: Addison Oaks, Highland Oaks, and Rose Oaks. Or plan a trip along the popular Paint Creek Trail or Polly Ann Trail. Click on the map below to find even more trails and zoom in to find an equestrian trail near you.

Equestrian Map in Oakland County zoomed in to show horse-friendly trails.

Do you know of any other equestrian locations in the Oakland County area? Let us know via Facebook or Twitter, contact us at socialmedia@oakgov.com, or leave a comment below.

Visit the Oakland County website, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest for more news and fun year round. Join the conversation using #OaklandCounty.