It inevitably comes for us all. A hobby you perhaps in the past haven’t thought twice about. But now … well, you couldn’t be more enthusiastic about grabbing your gear and getting outside to set out on your search. What is it we’re searching for, you ask? The beautiful and many birds of Michigan, of course!
Birdwatching is a year-round hobby that’s truly got so much to offer. Beyond learning about the area’s native birds and your goals to spot them, you’ll inevitably spend more time outdoors enjoying your surroundings, and you might even connect with a local birdwatching group like Grand Rapids Audubon Club.
If you’ve never purposefully set out to birdwatch before, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:
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First, get ready to be patient and blend in! Spotting takes time, especially for the rarer species of birds. Take your time, and remember to dress in clothing that’s comfortable and neutral in color.
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Utilize guides and resources. Michigan’s birds (and others in North America) can be identified visually through resources like the National Audubon’s Guide to North American Birds. Cornell’s Merlin Bird ID app can help identify those birds which you can hear but not see. And Michigan Audubon specifically has a great Michigan bird checklist you can take on your various outings to mark your findings.
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Consider your timing. Early morning is typically the most active time for birds to be out and about, so depending on your schedule, this could be a good way to get the most bang for your buck, so to say. But also, this is casual! Go out where and when you can.
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Always be respectful of nature. Don’t give in to the urge to see a bird or other wildlife too closely. Keeping your distance is most safe for both yourself and surrounding wildlife. Consider getting a pair of water- and fog-proof binoculars to better take in the sights.
Now that you have some quick basics, come along and explore some cool spots to see our native birds in action.
1715 Hillburn Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Explore over eight miles of trails perfect for birdwatching at Blandford Nature Center. They’ve even got their own field guide with a trail map, list of birds you’ll likely see, and more.
1010 Grand River Dr NE, Ada, MI 49301
A 242-acre nature-focused park in Ada Township, Roselle Park has both paved paths and mowed natural trails woven through wetlands, prairies, and forests.
MUSKEGON COUNTY WASTEWATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
698 N. Maple Island Road, Muskegon, MI 49442
While the name may be deceiving, this spot is an expansive haven for hundreds of bird species, especially waterfowl! Those who know already know it’s considered one of the best birding spots in the state. It’s here that potentially the rarest bird ever documented in the state—a White Wagtail—was spotted in April 1985.
111 E 6th St, Holland, MI 49423
This 30-acre gem of a park is easily accessible and offers scenic boardwalks and viewing decks/paths along the marsh. Migrating waterfowl can be seen, among many other species.
For even more top spots for birding in the area, visit Grand Rapids Audubon Club.
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for West Michigan Woman.
