Harsens Island

Michigan · Midwest

ChallengingView on eBird Directions

Habitat

Coastal

Best Seasons

Spring Fall

Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Harsens Island is a productive birding destination in Michigan, with 232 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Canada Goose, Tundra Swan, and Mallard 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

Canada Goose Tundra Swan Mallard Long-tailed Duck Bufflehead

Live Bird Data

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Lesser Black-backed Gull

Larus fuscus

6/2/2026Ruedisale Point Park1 observed

Trumpeter Swan

Cygnus buccinator

6/2/2026Wetzel SP6 observed

Yellow-headed Blackbird

Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus

6/2/2026Mitchell's Bay1 observed

Neotropic Cormorant

Nannopterum brasilianum

5/31/2026Lake St. Clair Metropark (Metro Beach Metropark)2 observed

Crested Caracara

Caracara plancus

5/30/2026King Road Park, Marine City US-MI 42.71467, -82.510101 observed

American White Pelican

Pelecanus erythrorhynchos

5/29/2026Harley Ensign Memorial Boating Access Site7 observed

Hooded Warbler

Setophaga citrina

5/29/2026Lake St. Clair Metropark (Metro Beach Metropark)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Osprey

15/21/2026

Birding Tips

1
Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.
2
Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.
3
Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

Amenities

Parking

Trails

More in Michigan

Whitefish Point Bird Observatory

Lake Superior peninsula and premier Great Lakes raptor migration corridor.

Algonac State Park

Grassland birding hotspot in Michigan with 217 recorded species.

Allegan State Game Area

Grassland birding hotspot in Michigan with 240 recorded species.

Michigan Birding Guide

Complete guide to birding in Michigan →

Birding Guides

Fall Bird Migration Guide

10 min read

Understanding Bird Migration

12 min read

Spring Birding in New York City

12 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Harsens Island for birding?▼

The best months to visit Harsens Island for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.

What birds can I see at Harsens Island?▼

Notable species at Harsens Island include Canada Goose, Tundra Swan, Mallard, Long-tailed Duck, Bufflehead. The area supports coastal habitats.

How difficult is birding at Harsens Island?▼

Birding at Harsens Island is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.

What amenities are available at Harsens Island?▼

Harsens Island offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.