Urban Park birding habitat

Matthaei Botanical Gardens

Michigan · Midwest

Habitat
Urban Park
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Matthaei Botanical Gardens is a productive birding destination in Michigan, with 207 species recorded on eBird. This urban park habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and American Black Duck 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

Blue Grosbeak

Passerina caerulea

6/2/2026Zeeb Road Grasslands Area2 observed

King Rail

Rallus elegans

6/2/2026Chelsea SGA--Four Mile Lake1 observed

Yellow-breasted Chat

Icteria virens

6/2/2026County Farm Park1 observed

Summer Tanager

Piranga rubra

6/1/2026Bird Hills Nature Area1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Purple Martin

36/1/2026

Green Heron

16/1/2026

Great Egret

16/1/2026

Tree Swallow

26/1/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

26/1/2026

Canada Goose

46/1/2026

Mallard

126/1/2026

Mourning Dove

46/1/2026

Chimney Swift

26/1/2026

Killdeer

26/1/2026

Turkey Vulture

36/1/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

26/1/2026

Northern Flicker

26/1/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

26/1/2026

Eastern Kingbird

16/1/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

36/1/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

16/1/2026

Blue Jay

106/1/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

26/1/2026

Barn Swallow

36/1/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Visit at dawn for peak songbird activity before crowds arrive.

  2. 2

    Check flowering trees and berry-producing shrubs for seasonal migrants.

  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 Matthaei Botanical Gardens for birding?
The best months to visit Matthaei Botanical Gardens for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Matthaei Botanical Gardens?
Notable species at Matthaei Botanical Gardens include Canada Goose, Mallard, American Black Duck, Sandhill Crane, Great Blue Heron. The area supports urban park habitats.
How difficult is birding at Matthaei Botanical Gardens?
Birding at Matthaei Botanical Gardens is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Matthaei Botanical Gardens?
Matthaei Botanical Gardens offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails.