River/Riparian birding habitat

Sturgeon River Sloughs WA (South Unit)

Michigan · Midwest

Habitat
River/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Sturgeon River Sloughs WA (South Unit) is a productive birding destination in Michigan, with 227 species recorded on eBird. This river/riparian habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Cackling Goose

Branta hutchinsii

4/17/2026Sturgeon River Rd.1 observed

White-crowned Sparrow

Zonotrichia leucophrys

4/14/2026Grosse point shores1 observed

Dark-eyed Junco (cismontanus)

Junco hyemalis

4/14/202624626 Forsman Rd, Hancock US-MI 47.14644, -88.477241 observed

White-winged Crossbill

Loxia leucoptera

4/14/2026The Rot Spot and Little Slice O’ Paradise5 observed

Ruddy Duck

Oxyura jamaicensis

4/13/2026Michigan Technological University campus1 observed

Redpoll (Hoary)

Acanthis flammea

4/12/2026Sturgeon River Rd.1 observed

Redpoll (rostrata/islandica)

Acanthis flammea

4/8/2026Forestry Building1 observed

Dark-eyed Junco (Oregon)

Junco hyemalis

4/6/2026Michigan Technological University campus1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

2504/12/2026

Mallard

184/12/2026

Sandhill Crane

184/12/2026

Ring-billed Gull

54/12/2026

Rough-legged Hawk

14/12/2026

American Crow

34/12/2026

Common Raven

14/12/2026

American Robin

24/12/2026

Redpoll

274/12/2026

Song Sparrow

34/12/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

164/12/2026

Common Grackle

94/12/2026

Bald Eagle

14/10/2026

Downy Woodpecker

14/10/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

14/10/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

14/10/2026

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 Sturgeon River Sloughs WA (South Unit) for birding?
The best months to visit Sturgeon River Sloughs WA (South Unit) for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Sturgeon River Sloughs WA (South Unit)?
Notable species at Sturgeon River Sloughs WA (South Unit) include Belted Kingfisher, Yellow Warbler, Song Sparrow, Great Blue Heron, Cedar Waxwing. The area supports river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Sturgeon River Sloughs WA (South Unit)?
Birding at Sturgeon River Sloughs WA (South Unit) is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Sturgeon River Sloughs WA (South Unit)?
Sturgeon River Sloughs WA (South Unit) offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.