Wetland birding habitat

Portage Marsh (Portage Point)

Michigan · Midwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Portage Marsh (Portage Point) is a productive birding destination in Michigan, with 235 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Mourning Dove, American Herring Gull, and American Crow 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

Great Egret

Ardea alba

4/15/2026Ogontz Bay1 observed

American Coot

Fulica americana

4/10/2026Portage Marsh (Portage Point)1 observed

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Sphyrapicus varius

4/7/2026Delta/MI Hyde Narenta Swamp1 observed

Canvasback

Aythya valisineria

4/5/2026Saunders Point/Wilderness Point (Gladstone)3 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

424/13/2026

Mute Swan

14/13/2026

Trumpeter Swan

24/13/2026

Gadwall

84/13/2026

American Wigeon

154/13/2026

Mallard

754/13/2026

American Black Duck

64/13/2026

Green-winged Teal

64/13/2026

Redhead

594/13/2026

Ring-necked Duck

1254/13/2026

Greater Scaup

124/13/2026

Lesser Scaup

254/13/2026

Long-tailed Duck

24/13/2026

Bufflehead

504/13/2026

Common Goldeneye

1504/13/2026

Hooded Merganser

284/13/2026

Common Merganser

324/13/2026

Red-breasted Merganser

1254/13/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

14/13/2026

Mourning Dove

34/13/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  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 Portage Marsh (Portage Point) for birding?
The best months to visit Portage Marsh (Portage Point) for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Portage Marsh (Portage Point)?
Notable species at Portage Marsh (Portage Point) include Mourning Dove, American Herring Gull, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, American Tree Sparrow. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Portage Marsh (Portage Point)?
Birding at Portage Marsh (Portage Point) is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Portage Marsh (Portage Point)?
Portage Marsh (Portage Point) offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.