Coastal birding habitat

Tawas Bay

Michigan · Midwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Tawas Bay is a productive birding destination in Michigan, with 202 species recorded on eBird. This coastal 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

American White Pelican

Pelecanus erythrorhynchos

4/13/2026Surfside Heights, Oscoda, Michigan, US (44.468, -83.323)6 observed

Gray Catbird

Dumetella carolinensis

4/10/2026809 Bischoff Rd, Tawas City US-MI (44.3040,-83.5442)

Evening Grosbeak

Hesperiphona vespertina

4/6/2026637–915 Wilber Rd, Baldwin US-MI (44.3041,-83.5225)1 observed

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Corthylio calendula

4/3/2026Tawas Point SP1 observed

Caspian Tern

Hydroprogne caspia

4/3/2026Gateway Park1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

44/14/2026

Bufflehead

64/14/2026

Northern Flicker

24/14/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

34/14/2026

Golden-crowned Kinglet

44/14/2026

American Robin

174/14/2026

Fox Sparrow

14/14/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

74/14/2026

White-throated Sparrow

24/14/2026

Song Sparrow

24/14/2026

Yellow-rumped Warbler

34/14/2026

Northern Cardinal

44/14/2026

Mourning Dove

54/14/2026

Sandhill Crane

24/14/2026

Ring-billed Gull

14/14/2026

Belted Kingfisher

14/14/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

24/14/2026

Downy Woodpecker

24/14/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

14/14/2026

Merlin

14/14/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  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 Tawas Bay for birding?
The best months to visit Tawas Bay for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Tawas Bay?
Notable species at Tawas Bay include Sanderling, Brown Pelican, Osprey, Royal Tern, Willet. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Tawas Bay?
Birding at Tawas Bay is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Tawas Bay?
Tawas Bay offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.