Coastal birding habitat

Mackinac Island

Michigan · Midwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Mackinac Island is a productive birding destination in Michigan, with 224 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Mallard, Mourning Dove, and Red-bellied Woodpecker 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

Hudsonian Whimbrel

Numenius hudsonicus

6/2/2026Trails End Bay marshes1 observed

Red-tailed Hawk (Krider's)

Buteo jamaicensis

5/31/2026Straits State Harbor1 observed

Swainson's Hawk

Buteo swainsoni

5/31/2026Mackinac Straits-Mackinaw City-spring1 observed

Wood Thrush

Hylocichla mustelina

5/30/2026Hessel, Michigan, US (46.04, -84.553)1 observed

Least Tern

Sternula antillarum

5/27/2026Cheboygan SP1 observed

Orchard Oriole

Icterus spurius

5/25/2026Cheboygan SP1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Ring-billed Gull

56/2/2026

Tree Swallow

26/2/2026

Canada Goose

45/30/2026

Mallard

25/30/2026

Mourning Dove

15/30/2026

Chimney Swift

35/30/2026

Turkey Vulture

15/30/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

15/30/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

15/30/2026

Barn Swallow

45/30/2026

European Starling

15/30/2026

American Robin

15/30/2026

Cedar Waxwing

35/30/2026

House Sparrow

75/30/2026

Song Sparrow

15/30/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

15/30/2026

Common Grackle

65/30/2026

American Redstart

15/30/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

25/30/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

15/28/2026

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 Mackinac Island for birding?
The best months to visit Mackinac Island for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Mackinac Island?
Notable species at Mackinac Island include Mallard, Mourning Dove, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Mackinac Island?
Birding at Mackinac Island is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Mackinac Island?
Mackinac Island offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.