Home to the Great Lakes and an array of rivers, wetlands, and inland lakes, Michigan is a paradise for a diverse range of water birds. This abundance of aquatic habitats offers shelter to a myriad of species, each one unique in its behavior, call, and vibrant plumage.
Michigan Water birds
| Species | Frequency | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| American White Pelican | Rare | Along the Lake Michigan shoreline, Saginaw Bay |
| Double-Crested Cormorant | Very Common | Statewide, particularly Great Lakes shorelines |
| Great Blue Heron | Very Common | Wetlands, lakes and rivers statewide |
| Great Egret | Common | Coastal areas, freshwater wetlands statewide |
| Snowy Egret | Uncommon | Coastal areas of southern Lower Peninsula |
| Green Heron | Common | Freshwater wetlands statewide |
| Black-Crowned Night-Heron | Common | Urban and suburban areas near water |
| Mallard | Very Common | Lakes, ponds, and rivers statewide |
| Wood Duck | Common | Wooded swamps, marshes statewide |
| Blue-Winged Teal | Common | Wetlands, especially in the southern Lower Peninsula |
| Northern Pintail | Common | Wetlands statewide, especially coastal |
| Canvasback | Common | Great Lakes shorelines, larger inland bodies of water |
| Redhead | Common | Great Lakes, larger inland lakes |
| Ring-Necked Duck | Common | Lakes, ponds statewide |
| Bufflehead | Common | Great Lakes, larger inland lakes |
| Hooded Merganser | Common | Freshwater bodies statewide |
| Common Merganser | Common | Rivers and larger lakes statewide |
| American Coot | Common | Lakes, ponds statewide |
| Sandhill Crane | Common | Wetlands and fields statewide |
| American Wigeon | Common | Wetlands statewide, especially coastal |
| Osprey | Uncommon | Near water bodies statewide |
| Common Loon | Common | Northern Michigan, larger inland lakes, Great Lakes shorelines |
Water Bird Species Found in Michigan
Where to Spot Michigan’s Water Birds
Pointe Mouillee State Game Area, Monroe County: This extensive coastal wetland habitats along Lake Erie is an important migratory stopover and breeding area for many aquatic birds including large birds such as Great Blue Herons, Tundra Swans, and a wide variety of ducks (the mallard with its iridescent purple green plumage) and shorebirds.
Seney National Wildlife Refuge, Schoolcraft County: Located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, this refuge is home to diverse bird species including waterbirds like the American Bittern, Marsh Wrens, and various duck species. The refuge’s wetlands and open water bodies make it a haven for these birds.
Tawas Point State Park, Iosco County: Known as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest,” this state park attracts a wide array of bird species, particularly during migration seasons. You can spot a variety of waterbirds here, including numerous species of ducks, shorebirds, and gulls, there is a notable stock of the green winged teal and the wood duck (notable for the green crested head on the males).
Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge, Saginaw County: Nestled in the heart of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, this wildlife refuge attracts a plethora of bird species. It is particularly well known for waterbirds, including Sandhill Cranes, various species of herons, egrets, and a wide array of duck species.
Isle Royale National Park, Keweenaw County: This remote island park with dense vegetation in Lake Superior hosts a variety of bird species. The island’s diverse habitats support several waterbirds, including Common Loons and various species of gulls and terns.
Remember, the Michigan Bird Records Committee keeps track of rare bird sightings and maintains a comprehensive list of bird species in the state both in Southern Michigan and Northern Michigan. Always report any unusual sightings to aid in their conservation efforts.
| Neighboring State | Best Spots for Birdwatching |
|---|---|
| Ohio Water Birds | Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge, Sheldon Marsh State Nature Preserve |
| Indiana Water Birds | Eagle Creek Park, Indiana Dunes National Park, Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area |
| Wisconsin Water Birds | Horicon National Wildlife Refuge, Crex Meadows Wildlife Area, Chequamegon Bay |