Lake birding habitat

Houghton Lake Flats Flooding

Michigan · Midwest

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Houghton Lake Flats Flooding is a productive birding destination in Michigan, with 204 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Rough-legged Hawk, American Crow, and Black-capped Chickadee 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

Lesser Scaup

Aythya affinis

7/7/2026Houghton Lake Sewage Ponds (limited access; M-F 8-4 only)4 observed

Red-breasted Merganser

Mergus serrator

7/7/2026Cottage1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Black Tern

7/13/2026

Osprey

37/13/2026

Barn Swallow

7/13/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

27/13/2026

Wood Duck

137/13/2026

Sandhill Crane

27/13/2026

Wilson's Snipe

17/13/2026

Ring-billed Gull

27/13/2026

Green Heron

67/13/2026

Great Blue Heron

37/13/2026

Belted Kingfisher

27/13/2026

Northern Flicker

37/13/2026

Eastern Kingbird

27/13/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

17/13/2026

American Crow

27/13/2026

Common Raven

17/13/2026

Marsh Wren

37/13/2026

American Robin

17/13/2026

Cedar Waxwing

37/13/2026

Song Sparrow

37/13/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  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 Houghton Lake Flats Flooding for birding?
The best months to visit Houghton Lake Flats Flooding for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Houghton Lake Flats Flooding?
Notable species at Houghton Lake Flats Flooding include Rough-legged Hawk, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Ring-billed Gull, Northern Flicker. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Houghton Lake Flats Flooding?
Birding at Houghton Lake Flats Flooding is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Houghton Lake Flats Flooding?
Houghton Lake Flats Flooding offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.