List: Where Michigan DNR will guide birding tours in spring

Wildlife lovers are invited to attend guided birding tours at several Wetlands across Michigan.

As birds return to Michigan’s wetlands in spring, Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNOR) wildlife biologists, technicians and volunteers from local Audubon chapters will lead the tours to premier bird viewing locations.

The DNR said the tours offer a unique opportunity to observe all sorts of species, including diving and dabbling ducks, trumpeter and tundra swans, osprey, bald eagles and sandhill cranes.

Birding tour dates and locations

• Saturday, March 22 – Shiawassee River State Game Area (St. Charles).
• Saturday, March 29 – Fish Point State Wildlife Area (Unionville).
• Saturday, April 5 – Nayanquing Point State Wildlife Area (Pinconning).
• Saturday, May 17 – Portage Marsh State Wildlife Area (Escanaba).

The tours will meet at a designated area before exploring key birding locations.

The DNR said the Portage Marsh birding tour will be on foot, while others will have visitors drive their own cars through roads overlooking the wetlands. Tourists are advised to dress for the weather, wear boots for any muddy terrain and bring binoculars or spotting scopes for the best viewing experience.