One of Michigan’s early spring spectacles is the American woodcock courtship dance! Join Michigan Department of Natural Resources and partners from Ruffed Grouse Society, MI Birds and Audubon for a guided Woodcock Walk at Lame Duck Foot Access Area GEMS on Thursday, April 24 at 7:30 p.m.

15 miles northeast of Gladwin, The Lame Duck Foot Access Area Grouse Enhancement Management Site (GEMS) is one of the best areas to see male American Woodcock’s doing their magnificent spring mating displays. The 11,000-acre GEMS is the largest in the state and provides a great mix of habitat that support a healthy population of American Woodcock and Wilson’s Snipe. 

All ages are welcome and encouraged!  RSVPs are required. To RSVP call 989-426-9205 ext. 2267630.

How to prepare: Please bring your own binoculars if you have them and a headlamp or flashlight. You’re encouraged to download one or more of the following smart phone apps: eBird, iNaturalist, Merlin Bird ID, and Audubon Bird Guide. Dress for the weather and wear waterproof boots for walking along uneven, muddy ground. Please be aware that the trail system is not ADA accessible.

If weather is poor, the event will be postponed to Thursday, May 1.

The walk is presented in partnership with MI Birds, a public outreach and education program created by Audubon Great Lakes and Michigan Department of Natural Resources. MI Birds aims to deepen all Michiganders engagement in the understanding, care, and stewardship of public lands that are important for birds and local communities.

Woodcock. Photo: John Troth/Audubon Photography Awards