Join Michigan Department of Natural Resources for a car-caravan-style birding tour of Fish Point State Wildlife Area for your chance to see ducks, swans, shorebirds, raptors and more! All ages are welcome and encouraged!   

Participants will drive their own cars to key birding spots within Fish Point—home to 2,477 acres of marshes, flooded cornfields, and agricultural land that provides exceptional waterfowl habitat. Often called the "Chesapeake of the Midwest," the Audubon Important Bird Area and Michigan Wetland Wonder hosts large concentrations of species like Snow Goose, Tundra Swan, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, and American Wigeon.  

Expect to see large concentrations of ducks and geese. In addition to waterfowl, keep an eye out for raptors such as Northern Harriers, Bald Eagles, Red-shouldered Hawks, and possibly a Snowy Owl! Look for Lapland Longspurs, Redpolls, and Snow Buntings before they leave Michigan and head further north to their breeding grounds.  

Event Schedule:

Meet at the Fish Point State Wildlife Area field office (7750 Ringle Rd., Unionville, MI 48767) at 9 am. Restrooms, parking, water, and refreshments will be available at the field office.  

How to Prepare:

Please bring your own binoculars or a scope if you have them. While there will be minimal walking, please dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes as the tour may take place along unpaved trails and uneven ground. Please be aware that the trail system is not ADA accessible. It is highly recommended to download one or more of the following smart phone apps: eBird, iNaturalist, Merlin Bird ID, Audubon Bird Guide.   

This birding tour is presented in partnership with MI Birds, a public outreach and education program by Audubon Great Lakes and Michigan Department of Natural Resources. MI Birds engages Michiganders in caring for public lands vital to birds and communities. 

Northern Shoveler. Photo: Steve Jessmore/Audubon Photography Awards