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

Golden Eagle

Aquila chrysaetos

4/11/2026Sleepy Hollow SP (Lake Ovid)1 observed

Red-headed Woodpecker

Melanerpes erythrocephalus

4/11/2026Maple River SGA (Gratiot Co.)2 observed

Snow Goose

Anser caerulescens

4/9/20262600–2998 E Ranger Rd, Ashley US-MI (43.1539,-84.5456)1 observed

Long-tailed Duck

Clangula hyemalis

4/3/2026Schlegel Sand & Gravel Ovid Pit1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

324/14/2026

Wood Duck

44/14/2026

Blue-winged Teal

124/14/2026

Northern Shoveler

114/14/2026

Gadwall

174/14/2026

American Wigeon

74/14/2026

Mallard

124/14/2026

Northern Pintail

464/14/2026

Green-winged Teal

54/14/2026

Ring-necked Duck

24/14/2026

Hooded Merganser

14/14/2026

Common Merganser

54/14/2026

Ruddy Duck

284/14/2026

Wild Turkey

14/14/2026

Sandhill Crane

14/14/2026

Killdeer

24/14/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

54/14/2026

Great Blue Heron

34/14/2026

Turkey Vulture

34/14/2026

Osprey

24/14/2026

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.