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Whitefish Point

Michigan · Midwest

Habitat
GrasslandWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

Entrance Fee

$5 suggested donation

Hours

Open daily, dawn to dusk

About This Location

Whitefish Point is a productive birding destination in Michigan, with 347 species recorded on eBird. This grassland and wetland habitat attracts Northern Shrike, Mourning Dove, and American Herring Gull 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

Spruce Grouse

Canachites canadensis

4/14/2026W Vermillion Rd, Paradise US-MI 46.71053, -85.045941 observed

Sharp-tailed Grouse

Tympanuchus phasianellus

4/13/2026Whitefish Point1 observed

Purple Martin

Progne subis

4/12/2026Whitefish Point1 observed

Lapland Longspur

Calcarius lapponicus

4/12/2026Whitefish Point35 observed

Northern Saw-whet Owl

Aegolius acadicus

4/10/2026Whitefish Point1 observed

Trumpeter Swan

Cygnus buccinator

4/10/2026Whitefish Point2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

34/15/2026

American Wigeon

14/15/2026

Mallard

24/15/2026

Long-tailed Duck

24/15/2026

Common Goldeneye

54/15/2026

Hooded Merganser

24/15/2026

Red-breasted Merganser

24/15/2026

Sandhill Crane

64/15/2026

Killdeer

74/15/2026

American Herring Gull

44/15/2026

Common Loon

14/15/2026

Turkey Vulture

44/15/2026

Sharp-shinned Hawk

84/15/2026

American Goshawk

14/15/2026

Northern Harrier

34/15/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

14/15/2026

Rough-legged Hawk

14/15/2026

American Kestrel

44/15/2026

Eastern Phoebe

24/15/2026

Blue Jay

34/15/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan fence posts and utility wires for perching raptors and kingbirds.

  2. 2

    Walk field edges at dawn when sparrows and grassland species are most vocal.

  3. 3

    Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

  4. 4

    Bring insect repellent — wetland areas can have significant mosquito activity, especially in warmer months.

  5. 5

    Waterproof boots are recommended as trails near marshes can be muddy, especially after rain.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Whitefish Point for birding?
The best months to visit Whitefish Point for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Whitefish Point?
Notable species at Whitefish Point include Northern Shrike, Mourning Dove, American Herring Gull, Black-capped Chickadee, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Blue Jay, Pine Grosbeak, Redpoll, Red-winged Blackbird, American Crow, Common Raven, Evening Grosbeak. The area supports grassland, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Whitefish Point?
Birding at Whitefish Point is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
Is there an entrance fee at Whitefish Point?
The entrance fee at Whitefish Point is $5 suggested donation. Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk.
What amenities are available at Whitefish Point?
Whitefish Point offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.