River/Riparian birding habitat

Maple River State Game Area

Michigan · Midwest

Habitat
River/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Maple River State Game Area is a productive birding destination in Michigan, with 257 species recorded on eBird. This river/riparian habitat attracts Canada Goose, Sandhill Crane, and Bald Eagle 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

Baird's Sandpiper

Calidris bairdii

7/15/20263403–3999 N Reid Rd, Alma US-MI (43.3417,-84.7162)1 observed

Orchard Oriole

Icterus spurius

7/9/20262742–2982 N Winans Rd, Alma US-MI (43.3335,-84.7062)2 observed

Stilt Sandpiper

Calidris himantopus

7/9/20263403–3999 N Reid Rd, Alma US-MI 43.34119, -84.716266 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Great Blue Heron

17/19/2026

Turkey Vulture

17/19/2026

American Kestrel

27/19/2026

Alder Flycatcher

17/19/2026

Cedar Waxwing

27/19/2026

Swamp Sparrow

17/19/2026

Bobolink

27/19/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

7/19/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

17/19/2026

Indigo Bunting

17/19/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

37/19/2026

Mourning Dove

37/19/2026

Killdeer

17/19/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

17/19/2026

Northern Flicker

17/19/2026

Eastern Kingbird

37/19/2026

Sedge Wren

27/19/2026

American Goldfinch

17/19/2026

Song Sparrow

37/19/2026

Common Yellowthroat

57/19/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Walk along the water slowly, scanning overhanging branches for kingfishers and warblers.

  2. 2

    Check sandbars and gravel bars for shorebirds and terns.

  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 River State Game Area for birding?
The best months to visit Maple River State Game Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Maple River State Game Area?
Notable species at Maple River State Game Area include Canada Goose, Sandhill Crane, Bald Eagle, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker. The area supports river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Maple River State Game Area?
Birding at Maple River State Game Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Maple River State Game Area?
Maple River State Game Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.