A Significant Ornithologist Experience

Wikipedia defines "Spring is one of the four conventional temperate seasons, following winter and preceding summer. There are various technical definitions of spring, but local usage of the term varies according to local climate, cultures and customs"  At Whitefish Point the local climate and  geologic features culminate in a plethora of activities that are not common across the continental United States. "Spring brings the smelt runs on the streams, wild bird migration, and beachcombers searching the shore for agates and unique driftwood; mushrooms pop up and are sought by many." Reflections on Paradise, 1989.  Whitefish Point is a mecca for birders -- Whitefish Point is on one of the busiest migratory flight paths in the world.

"The land and water surrounding the Point (Whitefish Point, Paradise, Michigan) create a kind of corridor, channeling thousands of migratory birds into it.  By January 1, 2003 a total of 318 species had been observed  Different types of birds have their own manner of arrival:  'Water birds concentrate as they travel in and out of Lake Superior.  Raptors follow the land that provides rising columns of swirling warm air to power their travels.  Meanwhile, songbirds funnel through the peninsula in an attempt to minimize the distance they have to travel over open water and the perils that such a journey entails.'" Remotely Yours, Jan McAdams Huttenstine, East West Press, LLC, 2010, p. 224, Whitefish Point Bird Observatory 25th Anniversary Member's Cookbook, 2003, Paradise.

Courtesy Whitefish Point Bird Observatory

"Spring migration (mid-March to mid-May is highlighted by Bad Eagles and as many as 15,000 to 25,000 other raptors.  In mid-April, the impressive spring water bird migration begins (20,000 to 45,000 birds).  Fall migration (mid-August through October) brings a spectacular show of 50.000 - 100,000 water birds."  Remotely Yours, Jan McAdams Huttenstine, East West Press, LLC, 2010, p. 225.  Whitefish Point Bird Observatory. Pamphlet, (Lansing: Michigan Audubon Society), 2009.

Experience the season of spring and its unique ornithological characteristics,  come to the Whitefish Point and experience Michigan's Paradise.  Whitefish Point Bird Observatory will be hosting their 29th Spring Fling, April 29 - 30, 2017.  Josh Haas is the keynote speaker this year. Showcasing his knowledge of hawks on the wing and sharing his expertise in identifying them at a distance.  Sign up for a field trip and learn more about the coveted Spruce Grouse.  Whether a beginner or experienced birder, attending this conference will offer you a significant ornithologist experience.