Coastal birding habitat

Fisherman's Island State Park

Michigan · Midwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Fisherman's Island State Park is a productive birding destination in Michigan, with 225 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts a wide variety of species among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Bay-breasted Warbler

Setophaga castanea

6/2/2026Thorne Swift Nature Preserve1 observed

Wilson's Phalarope

Phalaropus tricolor

6/1/2026Sportsman's Park2 observed

Long-tailed Duck

Clangula hyemalis

5/29/2026Petoskey Breakwall1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Turkey Vulture

16/2/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

16/2/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

26/2/2026

Eastern Kingbird

16/2/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

36/2/2026

Common Grackle

26/2/2026

Black-throated Green Warbler

16/2/2026

Canada Goose

25/31/2026

Mute Swan

35/31/2026

Mallard

55/31/2026

Red-breasted Merganser

75/31/2026

Mourning Dove

15/31/2026

Killdeer

65/31/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

25/31/2026

Ring-billed Gull

425/31/2026

American Herring Gull

235/31/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

15/31/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

15/31/2026

Northern Flicker

15/31/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

25/31/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  3. 3

    Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Fisherman's Island State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Fisherman's Island State Park for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Fisherman's Island State Park?
Notable species at Fisherman's Island State Park include Sanderling, Brown Pelican, Osprey, Royal Tern, Willet. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Fisherman's Island State Park?
Birding at Fisherman's Island State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Fisherman's Island State Park?
Fisherman's Island State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.