Coastal birding habitat

Maple Bay Natural Area

Michigan · Midwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Maple Bay Natural Area is a productive birding destination in Michigan, with 203 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Canada Goose, Trumpeter 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

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Common Goldeneye

Bucephala clangula

7/6/2026Boardman Lake--Logans Landing2 observed

Golden-winged x Blue-winged Warbler (hybrid)

Vermivora chrysoptera x cyanoptera

7/6/2026Ranch Rudolph1 observed

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

7/4/2026Boardman Lake--Logans Landing1 observed

Greater Scaup

Aythya marila

7/3/2026Boardman Lake--Logans Landing1 observed

American White Pelican

Pelecanus erythrorhynchos

7/1/2026Bowers Harbor Park3 observed

Lesser Scaup

Aythya affinis

6/30/20262150 S Airport Rd W, Traverse City US-MI 44.73478, -85.617282 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Ring-billed Gull

47/11/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

27/11/2026

American Robin

27/11/2026

Song Sparrow

17/11/2026

American Herring Gull

17/11/2026

Northern Flicker

17/11/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

17/11/2026

Eastern Phoebe

17/11/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

17/11/2026

American Crow

17/11/2026

Tufted Titmouse

17/11/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

17/11/2026

European Starling

307/11/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

27/11/2026

Black-throated Green Warbler

17/11/2026

Indigo Bunting

17/11/2026

Sandhill Crane

47/9/2026

Turkey Vulture

17/9/2026

Willow Flycatcher

17/9/2026

Barn Swallow

67/9/2026

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 Maple Bay Natural Area for birding?
The best months to visit Maple Bay Natural Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Maple Bay Natural Area?
Notable species at Maple Bay Natural Area include Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Mallard, American Black Duck, Cooper's Hawk. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Maple Bay Natural Area?
Birding at Maple Bay Natural Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Maple Bay Natural Area?
Maple Bay Natural Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.