Whitefish Point Bird Observatory

Located 11 miles north of Paradise, Whitefish Point Bird Observatory is the premier migration hot-spot in Michigan. Jutting out in Lake Superior, Whitefish Point acts as a natural migration corridor, bringing thousands of birds through this flyway every spring and fall. With its wooded dune and swale complex, distinctive to the Great Lakes region, the Point witnesses a huge diversity of migrants. Home to numerous rare breeding birds, this Globally Important Bird Area has recorded over 340 bird species.

Research conducted by our Michigan Audubon staff at WPBO significantly contributes to an ongoing effort to increase knowledge of bird migration, encourage public awareness of birds and the environment, and further critical bird conservation.

WPBO Spring Counts

WPBO conducts two counts annually every spring. The Raptor Count begins March 15 and is located at the Raptor Deck behind the Shipwreck Museum store. The Waterbird Count begins April 15 and located on the beach near the end of the National Wildlife Refuge boardwalk. Both counts continue through May 31. Links to follow along with the counts live through Trektellen are below.

WPBO Initiatives: Building a Stronger Future

We’re committed to enhancing our programming and strengthening our mission. Learn about our newest endeavors and explore how we’re evolving to better serve birds, habitats, and our passionate community of supporters on our WPBO Ongoing Initiatives page.